New Chinese law expands government authority over Tibetan buddhist institutions
The report highlighted that to "'create a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation,' Tibetan Buddhists are subtly under pressure to integrate their culture into Chinese framework
In recent years, China has implemented a series of laws and regulations aimed at increasing state control over Tibetan Buddhism, significantly impacting religious practices and institutions in Tibet.
Key Legislative Measures:
Order No. 19 (Effective September 1, 2023): This regulation, titled "Administrative Measures for Religious Activity Venues," mandates that all religious sites must "uphold the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC)" and "implement Xi Jinping's ideology of socialism with Chinese characteristics." The order imposes stringent requirements on the establishment, management, and operations of religious venues, effectively subordinating religious practices to state directives.
Measures on the Administration of Internet Religious Information Services (Effective March 1, 2022): These measures prohibit the dissemination of religious content online without prior government approval. This includes sharing images, videos, or live streams of religious ceremonies. The regulation aims to control religious expression in digital spaces, limiting the spread of unapproved religious information.
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State Religious Affairs Bureau Order No. 5 (Effective September 1, 2007): This order requires that all reincarnations of Tibetan Buddhist lamas, known as "Living Buddhas," receive government approval. It asserts state authority over the traditionally religious process of recognizing reincarnated spiritual leaders, thereby influencing the succession of key religious figures within Tibetan Buddhism.
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Implications for Tibetan Buddhism:
These regulations collectively aim to "Sinicize" Tibetan Buddhism, aligning it more closely with Chinese socialist values and ensuring loyalty to the CPC. The laws restrict religious education, control the appointment of religious leaders, and limit the autonomy of monasteries. By enforcing these measures, the Chinese government seeks to integrate Tibetan Buddhism into the broader framework of state-controlled religious practice, diminishing its distinct cultural and spiritual identity.
The international community, including human rights organizations, has expressed concern over these developments, viewing them as efforts to erode religious freedom and suppress Tibetan cultural heritage. The increased state intervention in religious affairs raises significant questions about the future preservation of Tibetan Buddhism's unique traditions under such restrictive governance.
