Increased Pressure on Underground Catholic Communities in China

Chinese authorities are intensifying efforts to compel underground Catholic communities to join the state-controlled church, alongside increasing surveillance and travel restrictions affecting the estimated 12 million Catholics in China. This situation is part of a broader campaign by the Communist Party to ensure loyalty among religious denominations and independent churches.

Associated Press

The tension between the Vatican and China has been influenced by a 2018 agreement aimed at easing relations, which allowed the state-controlled church to propose candidates for bishops, a role traditionally reserved for the pope. Despite this agreement, which was intended to foster cooperation, reports indicate that Catholics in China are facing heightened repression that undermines their religious freedoms. Yalkun Uluyol, a researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the need for Pope Leo XIV to reassess the agreement and advocate for the cessation of persecution against underground churches and their congregants.

Associated Press

Human Rights Watch has documented the increasing ideological control and restrictions imposed by the Chinese government on religious practices. Their report highlights that regulations enacted in December require state approval for foreign travel by Catholic clergy. Additionally, ChinaAid, a U.S.-based organization advocating for religious freedom, has called for international intervention, urging U.S. President Donald Trump to demand the release of detained church leaders, including Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri of the Zion Church, a prominent underground congregation.

Associated Press

Critics argue that the Chinese Communist Party's campaign to "Sinicize" religions has led to severe repression not only of Catholicism but also of Tibetan Buddhism and Islam. Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid, stated, “The Chinese Communist Party has escalated its systematic campaign to eradicate independent religious life,” urging the U.S. to respond with tangible consequences rather than mere expressions of concern.

Associated Press

While Human Rights Watch has reported on the situation based on testimonies from individuals outside China, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has not publicly responded to these allegations. The Vatican, through spokesman Matteo Bruni, has also remained silent on the latest report regarding the treatment of Catholics in China.

Associated Press

Pope Leo XIV has indicated that he is engaged in ongoing discussions regarding the complexities of the Vatican's relationship with China. As the situation evolves, international scrutiny and advocacy for religious freedom are likely to continue, with calls for accountability from both the Chinese government and the Vatican.

Associated Press

• “Catholics in China face escalating repression that violates their religious freedoms,” — Yalkun Uluyol, Human Rights Watch

Associated Press

• “The Chinese Communist Party has escalated its systematic campaign to eradicate independent religious life,” — Bob Fu, ChinaAid

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• “It’s a very difficult situation.” — Pope Leo XIV

Associated Press