China's Ethnic Unity Law Sparks Global Protests and Transnational Repression Concerns

China’s new Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law took effect on July 1, mandating loyalty to a unified Chinese nation, promoting Mandarin, and criminalising expressions of distinct ethnic identity. Critics say the law targets Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongols and other minorities, aiming to erase their languages, cultures and religious practices.

Parliamentarians in Estonia signed a protest letter, and Tibetan groups staged demonstrations outside Chinese embassies in Tokyo and Toronto, warning that the legislation could enable Beijing to pursue critics abroad. A Taiwanese security official warned the law could legitimize wider transnational repression, citing alleged overseas police stations, misuse of Interpol notices and forced returns of dissidents.

International human‑rights organisations and several governments have called for the law’s repeal, arguing it undermines constitutional guarantees in China and threatens the safety of diaspora communities worldwide.