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In order to dispel
misconceptions that may have arisen in ICSA's ongoing dialogue with independent
scholars from various countries, Falun Gong practitioners, and Chinese
scientists and government officials, ICSA wishes to make three points regarding
the controversies involving Falun Gong and the Chinese government.
First, ICSA upholds every
person's right of freedom of religion and worship, but is concerned about the
use of manipulative techniques and undue influence to diminish the freedom of
choice and freedom of mind of a group's members.
Second, ICSA urges the
Chinese government and Chinese scholars and professionals to respond
constructively to reports by well-respected international human rights
organizations that the human rights of members of Falun Gong and other religions
in China have been systematically violated. The physical brutality and other
human rights violations described in these reports should not be tolerated.
Third, reports in the Chinese
press and elsewhere that ICSA has branded Falun Gong a cult are false,
as are reports that ICSA has said Falun Gong is not a cult.
Although individuals associated with ICSA may hold various opinions on this
subject, ICSA as an organization has not taken a position on the issue. Our
Web sites emphasize that lists of groups on which we have information are not
lists of "cults." For more information on ICSA's concerns about labeling and
definitional issues, see its topic page on
definitional
issues.
Approved by the ICSA Board of
Directors on 23 April 2004.
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