17. China

Region

Asia

Christian population

96 700 000 (6.8%)

Main relegion
Other

​

Main threats

• Communist and post-Communist oppression
• Dictatorial paranoia

Total score

79%

Pressure

81.5%

Violence

66.7%

Christianity in China is a threat that must be tightly controlled and contained, according to the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

While there are registered churches in China, falling under either the Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPA) or the Catholic Patriotic Association (CPA), these are closely overseen by the state, which monitors what is preached and who is present. Under-18s are not permitted to attend. These strictures are to ensure the “sinicisation” of churches – that is, the aligning of religious doctrine with Communist ideology.

​

This intrusion means many churches decide not to register, meeting underground as house churches instead. This is an enormously brave move because it can lead to raids, fines, arrests, imprisonments, and the confiscation of materials. With incentives offered to report on such “illegal” activities, the risks facing those involved in house churches, particularly leaders, are deepening. A revision of religious laws in 2018 is driving much of this opposition, including regulations covering the internet, implemented with the help of highly sophisticated surveillance. It means believers must be careful about what they share online, even in private chats with friends.

​

Converts from Islam or Tibetan Buddhism can face threats and even physical harm from their families and communities.