Economist Podcasts A word in edgewise: Turkey, Armenia and genocide
Apr 29, 2021
Piotr Zalepski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, shares his expertise on the complicated history between Turkey and Armenia, sparked anew by President Biden’s acknowledgment of the 1915 genocide. Rob Gifford, a senior editor, discusses the rising persecution of Christians in China, particularly focusing on the government’s fear of underground movements. They explore the implications of nationalism, geopolitical tensions, and innovative ways, like wastewater testing, to monitor public health while navigating the intertwining issues of faith and state control.
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Armenian Perspective
- Armenians desire normalization, but not with Turkey's current nationalistic and expansionist stance.
- They recall a more democratic Turkey in 2009, contrasting with today's militaristic approach.
Rise of Christianity in China
- After relaxing restrictions post-Mao, Christian worship in China exploded, with many foreign missionaries returning.
- Today, however, much of this worship occurs unofficially in homes.
Party Concerns
- The Chinese government is concerned about the growth of unofficial "house churches," fearing potential political mobilization.
- They see uncontrolled Christian groups as a threat to the Communist Party's power.