China is cracking down on religious freedom and Pope Leo XIV faces a raging controversy about a deal his predecessor signed with Xi Xinping’s Communist Party. Today – how the China situation helped Leo defeat other contenders, and the dilemma he faces now. 

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This episode of The Front is presented and produced by Claire Harvey and edited by Jasper Leak, who also composed our theme. Our team also includes regular producer Kristen Amiet, Lia Tsamoglou, Tiffany Dimmack, Joshua Burton and Stephanie Coombes.