Claiming millions of members in China, the movement first stunned the Chinese leadership when more than 10,000 emerged without warning in April to sit silently protesting outside the leadership's own Zhongnanhai compound in Beijing. Last week, China declared the movement an illegal cult, and legislation was passed at the weekend that promises jail terms for its organisers. Dozens of leaders had already been detained and trials are expected to start soon. Two decades of economic reform have eroded the strict moral codes and control of the days of founding Chairman Mao Zedong. Tens of millions live in poverty.
Corruption is rife.
The wealth gap is growing fast. Once-guaranteed jobs may vanish tomorrow. Once free education and medical now cost money. Many members say they are drawn to Falun Gong because, apart from the physical benefits from its meditation and exercise practices, it gives them a moral framework for life. It is not the first time the Communist Party has gone all out to destroy what it sees as a rival for the loyalty of the people.