Expressing condemnation of the Chinese Communist Party’s persecution of religious minority groups, including Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists and the detention of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri and leaders of the Zion Church, and reaffirming the United States’ global commitment to promote religious freedom and tolerance.
Summary
House Resolution 861 condemns the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) persecution of religious minorities, including Christians, Muslims, and Buddhists. It specifically mentions the detention of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri and leaders of the Zion Church. The resolution reaffirms the United States' commitment to promoting religious freedom and tolerance globally.
Expected Effects
This resolution is primarily symbolic, expressing the House of Representatives' condemnation of the CCP's actions. It calls on the Chinese government to release detained religious leaders and end discrimination against religious minorities. The resolution also reinforces existing US policy on international religious freedom.
Potential Benefits
- Reinforces the US commitment to religious freedom globally.
- Sends a message of solidarity to persecuted religious minorities in China.
- Potentially influences international opinion and pressure on China.
- Reaffirms existing legislative frameworks like the International Religious Freedom Act.
- May encourage further action, such as sanctions, against individuals responsible for human rights violations.
Potential Disadvantages
- May strain diplomatic relations with China.
- Has no direct legal impact on the CCP's actions.
- Could be perceived as performative if not followed by concrete action.
- Potential for retaliatory actions by the Chinese government against US interests.
- May not significantly improve the situation for religious minorities in China.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion. It also reflects the principles enshrined in the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, which establishes the promotion of religious freedom as a key aspect of US foreign policy. The resolution does not infringe upon any specific constitutional provisions and reinforces the US commitment to human rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).