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Photo of Martin Lavička

Martin Lavička

Visiting research fellow

Photo of Martin Lavička

A New Round of Restrictions Further Constrains Religious Practice in Xinjiang

Author

  • Martin Lavička

Summary, in English

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.

Department/s

  • Centre for East and South-East Asian Studies, Lund University

Publishing year

2024-04-19

Language

English

Publication/Series

ChinaFile

Document type

Journal article

Topic

  • Religious Studies
  • Political Science (excluding Public Administration Studies and Globalization Studies)

Keywords

  • China
  • Xinjiang
  • religion and politics
  • law

Status

Published