Beijing: China has defended a new ethnic unity law that is set to take effect next week, saying it has the legal right to take action against individuals and organizations outside its borders if their activities are seen as threatening the country's ethnic unity and national interests.
The law, known as the Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress, will come into force on July 1 and has already attracted international attention. Chinese officials say the legislation is aimed at strengthening social harmony, protecting national sovereignty and promoting unity among the country's diverse ethnic groups. However, human rights organizations, foreign governments and some experts have raised concerns that the law could be used to target critics living overseas.
Speaking at a briefing in Beijing, Vice Justice Minister Hu Weilie said China has the authority to pursue legal action against people abroad whose actions are considered harmful to ethnic unity. He argued that many countries have laws with international reach and that China is acting within accepted legal norms. According to Chinese authorities, the law is not intended to interfere with normal international exchanges or lawful activities but rather to address actions that threaten national security and social stability.
The legislation was approved by China's parliament earlier this year and is part of a broader effort by the government to strengthen what it describes as a shared sense of national identity among all ethnic communities. China officially recognizes 56 ethnic groups, with the Han population making up the overwhelming majority.
One of the most closely watched aspects of the new law is its emphasis on the use of Mandarin Chinese in education and public life. Officials say promoting a common language helps improve communication, economic development and national cohesion. Critics, however, argue that greater emphasis on Mandarin could weaken the use of minority languages and traditions.
Human rights groups have expressed concern that the law may accelerate policies that encourage cultural assimilation among minority communities. Particular attention has been focused on regions such as Xinjiang, Tibet and Inner Mongolia, where previous government measures relating to language, education and religion have drawn international criticism.
The United Nations has also taken notice of the legislation. Several independent UN human rights experts recently warned that the law could affect the cultural, educational and religious rights of ethnic minorities. They expressed concern that broad provisions within the legislation may make it easier for authorities to restrict activities that are viewed as inconsistent with state policies on ethnic unity.
Taiwan has also voiced concerns about the law. Officials in Taipei say the legislation's broad language regarding sovereignty and national unity could potentially be used against Taiwanese individuals or groups who support positions opposed by Beijing. China considers Taiwan part of its territory, while Taiwan maintains its own government and democratic political system.
Chinese officials have rejected criticism from foreign governments and rights organizations. Beijing insists that the law promotes equality among ethnic groups and protects the rights of all citizens while helping combat extremism, separatism and discrimination. Government representatives argue that stability and unity are essential for economic growth and social development.
Analysts say the new law reflects a continuing policy direction under President Xi Jinping, who has repeatedly emphasized the importance of building a strong national identity and safeguarding territorial integrity. Supporters of the legislation believe it provides a clear legal framework for promoting unity in a country with a vast and diverse population.
As the law prepares to take effect on July 1, debate is expected to continue both inside and outside China. While Chinese authorities present the measure as a tool for strengthening national cohesion, critics fear it could expand state influence over ethnic identity and increase pressure on individuals and organizations beyond China's borders. The coming months are likely to reveal how the legislation will be implemented and what impact it may have on China's relationship with minority communities and the wider international community.