The Effectiveness of Freedom of Religion or Belief as a Framework in International Relations: The Case of Uyghur Muslims and Other Religious Minorities in Xinjiang, China

This article assesses the effectiveness of religious freedom as a framework in international relations for its ability to define issue Xinjiang and propose solutions. In defining problem, minorities other than Muslims, such Christians, are ignored. prevents social awareness policy from addressing issue, fosters Muslim majority appropriate Uyghur identity, marginalizing non-Muslim minorities. Moreover, identities (e.g. national, ethnic or linguistic) causes conflict socio-economic inequalities historical resentment) often overlooked. solving no solutions proposed underlying (separatist movements). On hand, China’s alternative defines problem (terrorism, separatism, extremism) provides basis which (savage) solutions: sinicization.