China’s Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, effective from July 1, emphasizes the integration of ethnic minorities into Chinese identity. The law mandates parents to encourage their children to “love” the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It prohibits actions that undermine ethnic unity among China’s 56 recognized ethnic groups, predominantly the Han Chinese.
The legislation also focuses on fostering a strong sense of community among Chinese people through the student curriculum. Chinese leader Xi Jinping has long advocated for ethnic minority groups like Tibetans and Uyghurs to embrace a Chinese national identity and loyalty to the Communist Party. Concerns have been raised by United Nations human rights experts regarding the potential impact on linguistic, cultural, and religious autonomy of ethnic communities, including Tibetans, Uyghurs, and Mongols.
Critics fear the law could lead to transnational repression, as it grants Beijing the authority to target individuals beyond its borders who are perceived to violate its regulations. The Chinese Communist Party has faced allegations of transnational repression, with reports of overseas police stations monitoring and repatriating Chinese citizens living abroad. Activists, scholars, and discussions on ethnic minority issues globally are expected to be affected by this law.
James Leibold, a Professor at La Trobe University, highlighted that Beijing is now emphasizing the production of a unified Chinese national identity across various sectors. The law enforces a narrative where minority identities are only acceptable when subordinate to a party-defined Chinese identity.
