Escalating Repression: China's Catholics Under Siege

Chinese authorities are intensifying efforts to bring underground Catholic communities under state control, increasing surveillance and restrictions. This move violates religious freedoms and continues despite a 2018 Vatican-China agreement. Human Rights Watch highlights escalating repression and international responses urging immediate action against these violations.

The Chinese government is exerting increased pressure on underground Catholic communities to conform to state-controlled religious practices, a report by Human Rights Watch highlighted on Wednesday.

The clampdown is part of a long-standing campaign aimed at ensuring loyalty to the officially atheist Communist Party, affecting China's estimated 12 million Catholics.

This pressure persists despite a 2018 Vatican-China agreement meant to ease tensions by allowing the state a say in naming bishops. Human rights advocates are urging reevaluation of this agreement and demanding Beijing cease its repressive measures against religious freedoms.

(With inputs from agencies.)