Beijing orders 'Chinese characteristics' for new East Turkistan mosques

Newly built mosques in East Turkistan (Xinjiang) must adopt "Chinese characteristics" under new regulations from authorities.

The regulations say that no organization or individual may force residents to not believe in a religion.

But new or renovated religious venues, including mosques, are required to "embody Chinese characteristics and style" in terms of architecture, sculptures, paintings and decorations.

The new rules in East Turkistan (Xinjiang) align with the Chinese leadership's policy to "Sinicize" religion and tighten state control.

They went into force on Thursday, following a public notice by the so-called Xinjiang government last month.

Construction of new religious sites requires approval of the local government. Religious groups, clergy and believers must "practice core socialist values" and "adhere to the goal of the Sinicization of religion," the text states.

In January 2021, the Communist Party published regulations on the "united front work" calling on religious doctrines and precepts to be in line with the development and advancement of modern China.