China: 'A new law governing the freedom of religion in China takes effect March 1. The government first announced the new Religious Affairs Provisions on November 30, 2004. The New China News Agency characterized the law as “a significant step forward in the protection of Chinese citizens’ religious freedom.” New provisions may help Christian believers cut through often impenetrable bureaucracy when applying for official registration and could safeguard religious property rights. One article grants permission for churches to establish social service projects such as kindergartens, orphanages and clinics. However, improvements are more than offset by new provisions to punish members of unregistered religious groups. It also appears that religious believers outside the state-controlled church were not consulted while drawing up the law. Thus, tensions between the state and China’s rapidly growing religious communities are likely to be exacerbated.' (Compass Direct)