Earlier this year, authorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region passed a revised version of the Xinjiang Regulations on Religious Affairs. The new rules emphasize the Sinicization of religion, ensuring that sites of religious worship, like mosques, reflect “Chinese characteristics and style.” Moreover, they are calling for the cultivation of “patriotic” religious leaders. Despite enshrining religious freedom in its constitution and official pronouncements, China has seen a continued decline in the space available for religious practice. This article looks at the new regulations in the context of the broader situation in China under Xi Jinping and his larger project to use the “rule of law” to validate and consolidate the leadership of the CCP.

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