The status of "foreign religions" in contemporary Chinese society

The article examines the status of "foreign religions" in Chinese society. The author intentionally uses the term "foreign religions" (洋教 because it is used by a number of Chinese researchers to define specific religions of non-Chinese origin. In the country, three official foreign religions are recognized: Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. Each religion has undergone its own challenging and lengthy process of "sinicization." Through the adaptation of foreign religions to Confucian culture among the Han Chinese (the indigenous population), these faiths have strengthened their position within the territory and within Chinese cultural tradition. Today, foreign religions and their activities are regulated by a series of legislative acts. It is at the state level that control over the activities of religious organizations is implemented. Having undergone the process of "sinicization," foreign religions have adapted and acquired distinct characteristics, and today they exist and maintain their position through the implementation of joint activities with the state.