On 10 February, new “Measures for the Administration of Religious Clergy” further tightened state oversight of religious life. Clergy must now be formally identified by approved religious bodies, registered with government authorities, issued numbered certificates, and subject to renewal procedures.
Religious gatherings outside registered venues can be deemed illegal. Unauthorized education, independent teaching, foreign affiliation, and even aspects of reincarnation recognition fall under administrative control.
The text repeats that “freedom of religion and belief is a fundamental right” yet conditions nearly every expression of that belief on approval, filing, and supervision.
Belief may exist. Practice must be licensed.
#freedom #Tibet #controlled #ReligiousFreedom #China