Religion forms a large part of people’s lives, it is through religion and one’s faith that large sections of humanity derive meaning and purpose in their lives. Despite the ideological apathy that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) holds towards all religions, the CCP has employed a strategy of religious diplomacy to not only increase its control over domestic religious institutions but to also propagate a false narrative about China’s religious policy. China’s religious diplomacy involves pervasive control of the CCP over every aspect of religion, from regular worship to conducting charity services, appointment and training of religious leaders to set several conditions on their activities.
As per CCP ideology, Beijing has always pursued the idea of ‘national unity’ based on Confucian values. By promoting Confucianism, China intended to maintain a positive image internationally, despite being involved in the exploitation of various religions and religious groups….