Human Rights Watch urges the Vatican to leverage its renewed agreement with China to improve human rights, particularly for Catholic bishops who have disappeared. This agreement, first established in 2018, aims to regulate the appointment of bishops but has yet to yield significant benefits for religious freedom. Pope Francis is encouraged to advocate for the release of imprisoned bishops as a priority in negotiations with the Chinese government. The Spanish state’s repressive policies under Xi Jinping threaten the future of Catholic worship in China, casting doubt on the true efficacy of the agreement.
The Vatican’s recent renewal of its 2018 agreement with China offers hope for advancements in religious freedom and human rights, according to Human Rights Watch. They emphasize the urgency for the Chinese government to release Catholic bishops who have been forcibly removed from society. Notable figures include James Su Zhimin and Thaddeus Ma Daqin, as highlighted by the Hudson Institute.
The 2024 renewal of the “Provisional Agreement regarding the Appointment of Bishops” highlights an ongoing struggle for religious autonomy within China’s rigid governmental framework. Under President Xi Jinping, the state has tightened control over religious practices, leading to a crackdown on unofficial worship among China’s 12 million Catholics. This backdrop of repression creates a stark contrast to the Vatican’s diplomatic efforts, raising critical questions about prioritizing religious rights over political relations.
In summary, the renewed Vatican-China agreement represents a potential turning point for religious freedom in China. However, successful advocacy for jailed bishops is paramount. As the Vatican navigates these complex waters, vocal support for human rights must remain a guiding principle to ensure that the agreement translates into real change for oppressed believers.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
