9/16/2024 China (International Christian Concern) — During a daily briefing on Sept. 4, Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, announced that China is ending its foreign adoption program.
The decision, he said, helps China be “in line” with international trends. Adoptions between blood relatives will still be allowed.
According to Reuters, Mao did not provide any further reasoning for this decision other than stating, “We express our appreciation to those foreign governments and families who wish to adopt Chinese children for their good intentions and the love and kindness they have shown.”
The Guardian reported that in a phone call with U.S. diplomats in China, Beijing stated it “will not continue to process cases at any stage.”
In three decades, it is estimated that more than 82,000 children have been adopted, and more than 150,000 children remain in orphanages waiting for families.
By halting this program, China is seen as taking a stance that affects various international norms, including religious freedom. This decision has affected many faith-based organizations that assist with foreign adoptions. By stopping the program, China could affect these organizations’ work, eliminating their ability to operate in China and influencing their religious missions.
Additionally, this decision affects the many parents who decide to adopt based on their motivated religious beliefs.
China’s decision to end its foreign adoption program may be viewed as a strategic move to promote national self-reliance, reinforce its sovereignty, and limit Western influence.
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