A group of bipartisan senior US lawmakers has strongly criticized China’s recently passed Ethnic Unity and Progress Law, stating that it could further diminish the rights of ethnic and religious minorities while expanding Beijing’s ability to target critics globally. Led by Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Jim Risch and Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen, along with several other senators and representatives, the lawmakers expressed concerns over the law’s impact on minority groups. They highlighted that the Chinese Communist Party has historically denied self-determination rights to minority groups like Tibetans, Uyghurs, and Mongolians, despite these rights being enshrined in China’s constitution.
The legislators raised alarms about the new law, which they believe solidifies Beijing’s unjust policies aimed at erasing the culture, religion, and language of minority groups both within and outside China. Of particular concern are provisions that extend China’s legal jurisdiction beyond its borders, potentially affecting individuals critical of the CCP even outside the country. The lawmakers emphasized that this legislation could empower Beijing to target critics abroad and legitimize transnational repression efforts.
The US lawmakers vowed to continue opposing China’s attempts to interfere in other nations’ affairs and suppress minority communities. They affirmed their commitment to upholding the human rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, and other ethnic groups, emphasizing the importance of self-determination, cultural preservation, and religious freedom for all individuals. Over the years, the United States has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials and entities over alleged human rights violations in Xinjiang and restrictions in Tibet, with ongoing accusations against Beijing for suppressing the rights of ethnic minorities.
