Rights Advocates Raise Concerns Over Impact of China’s Ethnic Unity Law on Uyghurs

Rights Advocates Raise Concerns Over Impact of China’s Ethnic Unity Law on Uyghurs
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One month after China’s Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress came into effect, rights advocates have raised concerns that the legislation is being used to intensify assimilation policies targeting Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities.

According to an analysis cited by The Diplomat, the law expands government authority over education, religious institutions, public bodies and families, requiring them to promote Beijing’s definition of “ethnic unity.” Critics say the measures further limit cultural and linguistic diversity, including by expanding the use of Mandarin in education and encouraging the “Sinicization” of religious practices.

Activists pointed to videos circulating on social media that allegedly show Uyghur-language street signs being removed and replaced with Chinese-language signs, with residents unable to challenge the changes.

Reports also claimed that some Uyghur families have faced legal pressure over contacts and economic activities abroad. Critics say provisions allowing action against individuals and organizations outside China could increase concerns over transnational pressure on Uyghur communities overseas.

The law has drawn criticism from international rights officials and organizations. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called for its repeal, while several governments and legislative bodies have previously raised allegations of serious human rights violations against Uyghurs.