ICC Note:
China’s new laws on non-profits seems designed to force non-profits out of the country. The new policy requires NGOs to fully meet Beijing’s standards for non-profits working in China but does not clearly explain what those standards are. A phone line was set up for the purpose of answering those questions, however, many of the calls to the number have gone unanswered. The list of permitted issues for non-profits excludes “human rights” among other issues which will further hamper organizations’ work in China. Some are already pulling out. The American Bar Association has already closed its office until it can receive better explanation of the requirements. This new law will also be another tool in Beijing’s tool belt to use against Christian ministries and churches in the country which are already being severely repressed.
1/1/2017 China (The New York Times) – The hotline rings, but nobody answers.
China’s Ministry of Public Security opened the line last month to answer questions about the new law regulating foreign nonprofit organizations, which takes effect on Sunday.
But this week and last, calls went unanswered, exemplifying the uncertainty that still surrounds the law, raising concern among thousands of nongovernmental organizations about their ability to continue their work in the new year.
The law, which places a raft of new requirements on foreign nonprofits operating in China, is another building block in President Xi Jinping’s fortification of one-party rule, which he sees as threatened by foreign influence and unfettered civil society.
Under the law, foreign nonprofits such as foundations, charities and many business associations must register with the police, persuade state agencies and organizations to act as their sponsors, and submit regular, detailed reports on their activities.
…
[Full Story]