Explained: What is China's new Ethnic Unity Law and why is it controversial?

Summary

China's Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law came into force on July 1, formalising President Xi Jinping's vision of a unified Chinese national identity. Beijing says the legislation promotes ethnic harmony and national security, but critics—including the United Nations, Taiwan and international rights groups—warn it could accelerate the assimilation of ethnic minorities and expand China's legal reach beyond its borders. Here's what the law does and why it has become controversial. The legislation makes ethnic unity a legal obligation across education, public administration, cultural institutions and local governments. The legislation introduces several measures designed to reinforce national integration: -Mandarin Chinese must remain the primary language in schools and government institutions. -Schools must teach students to develop a strong sense of belonging to the Chinese nation. -Parents are expected to educate children to support the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the Chinese nation. -Museums, libraries and cultural institutions must promote Chinese history and national unity. -Local governments are encouraged to pursue ethnic integration through housing and community planning. -Authorities are empowered to act against activities considered to "undermine ethnic unity" or encourage separatism. Critics say the legislation could further weaken: Many fear the law provides a stronger legal basis for policies already implemented in Xinjiang and Tibet, including restrictions on minority-language education and expanded political oversight. Tibetan and Uyghur representatives argue the legislation reinforces policies aimed at reshaping their identities. -Restrictions on Tibetan- and Uyghur-language instruction -Boarding schools separating children from their communities -Pressure to adopt Han Chinese cultural identity UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called for the law to be repealed. Taiwan says the legislation could be used against people outside China whose speech or actions are considered unacceptable by Beijing. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council argued that the legislation contains vague legal language that could be used to fabricate charges against individuals travelling to or engaging with China. Stay updated with the latest Trending , India , World and US news.