Freedom of religious belief protected by the Constitution: White paper

BEIJING -- Freedom of religious belief is protected by the Constitution in China, according to a white paper released by the State Council Information Office Tuesday.

Stipulations in the Constitution serve as the constitutional basis for the State in protecting citizens' freedom of religious belief, administering religious affairs in accordance with the law, and building positive relations with and among religions, said the white paper, titled "China's Policies and Practices on Protecting Freedom of Religious Belief."

Citizens of the People's Republic of China enjoy freedom of religious belief. No State organ, public organization or individual may compel citizens to believe in, or not to believe in, any religion; nor may they discriminate against citizens who believe in, or do not believe in, any religion, according to the Constitution.

No one may make use of religion to engage in activities that disrupt public order, impair the health of citizens or interfere with the educational system of the State.

Religious bodies and religious affairs are not subject to any foreign control, according to the Constitution.

Freedom of religious belief is also protected by basic laws. Administrative regulations regarding religious affairs are improving, the white paper said.