Sino-Vatican Relations: A Conflict Transformation Perspective

Austermiller, Kaitlin Diane

4. term

Development and International Relations, Master

2013

2013-05-20

56

Dette speciale undersøger forholdet mellem Den Hellige Stol (Vatikanets styrende myndighed) og den kinesiske regering set gennem konflikttransformation, en tilgang der fokuserer på at ændre relationer, strukturer og holdninger over tid frem for blot at løse en enkelt strid. Vi gennemgår både den historiske baggrund og den nuværende situation for at forklare konfliktens rødder, især uenigheden om, hvem der har den endelige myndighed over katolske anliggender i Kina. Centrale udviklinger sættes i kontekst, og de berørte gruppers behov beskrives, herunder hvordan de er blevet mødt med imødekommenhed eller undertrykkelse. Vi vurderer også, om de nye ledere—pave Frans og Xi Jinping—kan fungere som forandringsagenter, og peger på andre mulige brobyggere. Derudover vurderer vi, om en mere aktiv tilstedeværelse fra Den Hellige Stol i Kina kan skabe social eller politisk ustabilitet, og vejer de tilknyttede risici. Undersøgelsen bygger primært på fagfællebedømte artikler, avisartikler og et interview med kardinal Zen fra Hongkong. Der var stor vægt på engelsksprogede kilder, hvilket betyder, at kinesisksprogede materialer ikke blev udnyttet fuldt ud; objektivitet var dog et erklæret mål. Konklusionen er, at et mere konstruktivt forhold kræver tid, heling og progressive skridt. En fuld genetablering af diplomatiske forbindelser er næppe nært forestående, men med vedvarende åben kommunikation og eventuelle forhandlinger kan forholdet forandres væsentligt—mod en katolsk kirke med kinesiske kendetegn, der bevarer troens grundelementer.

This study explores the relationship between the Holy See (the Vatican’s governing authority) and the Chinese government through the lens of conflict transformation, an approach that seeks long-term changes in relationships, structures, and attitudes rather than a quick fix to a single dispute. We review both the historical background and the present situation to explain the roots of the conflict, especially the disagreement over who has final authority over Catholic affairs in China. Key milestones are outlined, and the needs of affected groups are discussed, including how authorities have alternated between accommodation and repression. We assess whether the new leaders—Pope Francis and Xi Jinping—could act as catalysts for change, and we note other potential facilitators. We also consider whether a more active role for the Holy See in China might create social or political instability and weigh the related risks. The research draws mainly on peer-reviewed journals, newspaper articles, and an interview with Cardinal Zen of Hong Kong. The study relied heavily on English-language sources, leaving much Chinese-language material underused, although objectivity remained a goal. Overall, we conclude that a more constructive relationship will require time, healing, and steady progress. Full diplomatic ties are unlikely to be restored soon, but with continued open communication and possible negotiations, the relationship could transform significantly—toward a Catholic Church with Chinese characteristics that preserves the core elements of the faith.

[This abstract was generated with the help of AI]

China ; Holy See ; Diplomatic Relations

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