Antireligious campaigns in China

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Kong Yanjin - looking north - P1060200

== Antireligious Campaigns in China ==

Antireligious campaigns in China refer to the series of efforts by the People's Republic of China (PRC) to suppress and control religious practices and institutions. These campaigns have been a significant aspect of the PRC's policy since its establishment in 1949, aiming to promote atheism and align religious practices with the goals of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Historical Background

The roots of antireligious campaigns in China can be traced back to the early 20th century, during the Republic of China era, when the government sought to modernize the country and reduce the influence of traditional religious practices. However, the most intense and systematic efforts began after the establishment of the PRC in 1949.

Early Campaigns (1949-1966)

After the PRC was founded, the government launched several campaigns to control and suppress religious activities. The Land Reform Movement and the Campaign to Suppress Counterrevolutionaries targeted religious leaders and institutions, labeling them as feudal remnants and reactionaries. The government also established the Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association and the Three-Self Patriotic Movement to control Christianity in China.

Cultural Revolution (1966-1976)

The Cultural Revolution marked the peak of antireligious campaigns in China. Led by Mao Zedong, the movement sought to eradicate the "Four Olds" (old customs, old culture, old habits, and old ideas). Religious institutions were closed, religious texts were destroyed, and religious leaders were persecuted. The Red Guards played a significant role in these activities, often resorting to violence and public humiliation.

Post-Cultural Revolution Era (1976-Present)

After the end of the Cultural Revolution, the PRC adopted a more pragmatic approach towards religion. The Constitution of the People's Republic of China (1982) guarantees freedom of religious belief, but the government continues to maintain strict control over religious practices. The State Administration for Religious Affairs oversees religious activities, and only state-sanctioned religious organizations are allowed to operate.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the PRC has intensified its efforts to control religious practices, particularly targeting Islam in Xinjiang and Tibetan Buddhism in Tibet. The government has implemented measures such as the Sinicization of religion policy, which aims to align religious practices with Chinese culture and the goals of the CPC. Reports of human rights abuses, including the detention of Uyghurs in re-education camps, have drawn international criticism.

Impact

The antireligious campaigns in China have had a profound impact on religious practices and institutions. While some religious communities have adapted to the government's policies, others have faced severe repression. The campaigns have also led to the emergence of underground religious movements and increased international scrutiny of China's human rights record.

See Also

• Religion in China
• Cultural Revolution
• Human rights in China
• Sinicization of religion
• Uyghurs
• Tibetan Buddhism