China enacts ethnic unity law strengthening Mandarin and extending jurisdiction abroad

China’s new Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress took effect this month, aiming to forge a shared national identity and prevent separatism. The legislation elevates Mandarin as the primary language of education, official business and public spaces across the country.

Chinese authorities say the law promotes social cohesion, while critics warn it could further erode the cultural and linguistic rights of Uighurs, Tibetans and other minorities. A clause allowing action against individuals or organisations abroad has drawn concern from Taiwan, which cautions the law could be used to target critics of Beijing.

Legal analysts note that the law’s Article 63 does not create new offences but refers alleged violations to existing criminal statutes, such as China’s constitution and criminal code. They argue the provision is a referral mechanism rather than a tool for transnational repression.