China implemented the "Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress" on July 1, 2026, aiming to reinforce ethnic unity within the country. The law's enactment has sparked concerns among critics in Beijing and abroad about increased pressure on China's minority communities and the law's claims of extraterritorial jurisdiction.
The legislation was finalized following the closing session of the National People's Congress in Beijing on March 12, where a delegate in ethnic minority attire was seen holding the document. The law has drawn backlash from various international actors, including Japan and Europe.
A Japanese aide to Takaichi stated that "no democratic nation could tolerate" the move, while both the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the European Union (EU) have urged China to repeal the law.
These developments highlight growing international unease over China's approach to ethnic policies and its potential global implications.
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