China’s Draft ‘Ethnic Unity’ Law Raises Concerns Over Ideological Control
A new draft law in China aims to strengthen what authorities define as “ethnic unity,” but critics argue it represents a important tightening of ideological control over minority groups both within and outside the country. The proposed legislation builds upon existing laws but introduces stricter requirements regarding language and ideological conformity, raising fears of further erosion of cultural and linguistic rights.
Currently, China’s 1984 Regional Nationalities Autonomy Law allows for versatility in language education, stating that schools primarily serving minority students “should use textbooks in minority languages if possible and teach in minority languages.” It also permits a flexible timeline for introducing Mandarin Chinese instruction, “from the lower or upper grades of primary schools according to the situation.” however, the draft law, specifically article 15, mandates Mandarin instruction for preschool children and requires students to “basically master” the language by the end of compulsory education, typically around age 15. This shift prioritizes the “national common language” – Mandarin – and echoes policies already implemented in regions like the Tibetan Autonomous Region.
Evidence suggests a trend of diminishing access to mother-tongue education in several regions. In Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia, authorities have already considerably curtailed education in local languages, despite protests from students, teachers, and parents.
Beyond language, the draft law seeks to extend ideological control beyond China’s borders. Article 17 outlines the promotion of specific ideas through “exchanges and cooperation” with foreign academia, civil society groups, and think tanks.The law specifically targets “Taiwan compatriots” and overseas Chinese communities, aiming to “strengthen their understanding that we all belong to the Chinese nation.” Simultaneously, Article 61 stipulates that organizations and individuals outside of China deemed to “undermine national unity and progress or incite ethnic division” will face “legal accountability.”
This push for ideological alignment extends to how China is represented internationally. In recent years, the Chinese government has pressured foreign institutions to adopt “Xizang,” the Mandarin name for tibet, instead of “Tibet.” Moreover, reports indicate a pattern of transnational repression, including harassment and intimidation of Chinese students abroad and members of the diaspora, with threats frequently enough directed towards their families in China, to enforce ideological conformity. In September, a Chinese student was arrested and accused of “inciting separatism” for advocating for Tibetan rights while studying overseas.
According to Wang, a researcher following the developments, “The draft law on ethnic unity is a blatant effort by the Chinese government to control people’s thoughts and expression about China both inside and outside the country.” Concerns are growing that the law will further suppress ethnic minority communities and their supporters,prompting calls for international pressure on China to abandon the legislation.
