As the 2008 Olympics near, the media and various activist groups have begun increasing discussions of freedoms in China — particularly religious freedoms. Considering the amount of “free” democratic countries whose teams and fans will be entering the country, and considering the fact that media from around the world will also be allowed to report from China, it’s not surprising that religious groups are also asking for increased leeway.
The Open Doors Campaign is asking for prayers for the Chinese government to allow religious freedom (particularly for Christians). And human rights activists are getting in on the debate for religious freedom — even going so far as to request that the Chinese government take a stand, not just for religious freedoms, but for help in ending the violence in Darfur.
I just have two comments…
1. I’m all for ending violence and allowing religious freedom — but I’m guessing the Chinese government didn’t realize they’d have to bring peace to mankind when they signed on to host some games.
2. Not to be negative or skeptical, but is it really any surprise that there’s not religious freedom in China? Anyone ever heard of a little thing called Communism?