Faith
China Tightens Online Religious Expression Laws
Faith Facts
- China has issued strict regulations severely limiting religious content and activities online.
- Religious leaders are barred from ministering to minors or organizing youth faith-based groups online.
- All online faith content must align with state ideology and be shared only through government-approved platforms.
In a recent move, China released new rules restricting the sharing of religious material over the internet unless approved by the state. These regulations make it illegal for clergy to use personal social media or informal channels to teach, evangelize, or interact with youth online.
Religious leaders must possess a special license to post content, and they must adhere strictly to socialist values and the leadership of the Communist Party.
“Clergy may not evangelize to underage users or organize youth religious camps or training,” one religious rights report explained.
Fundraising, selling religious merchandise, and using artificial intelligence to share faith messages are also strictly forbidden.
Offenders can face severe penalties, including losing credentials, account closures, and criminal investigation, creating new challenges for those seeking to live out the Great Commission in China.
Faith and religious liberty are foundational to both the Christian walk and the flourishing of free societies. Prayer is needed for believers in China as they continue to persevere under these heavy constraints and for the advancement of true freedom of worship.