China accuses critics of ethnic unity law of ‘spreading falsehoods’ as UN warns it threatens rights

China on Friday implored other nations to stop disseminating "falsehoods" regarding its new ethnic unity law. This call follows warnings from U.S. lawmakers, the United Nations, and human rights organizations that the legislation jeopardizes minority freedoms.

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stop spreading falsehoods

The Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress, enacted Wednesday, seeks to cultivate a unified national identity among China's ethnic groups. A key provision strengthens Mandarin's role as the official language. However, international advocacy groups express concern that the law will erode the rights of minorities, such as Uyghurs and Tibetans, who Beijing is accused of persecuting.

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sweeping generalisations (and) maliciously smearing China’s ethnic policies

Furthermore, a clause enabling legal liability for violating the law even outside Chinese territory has drawn criticism. Opponents argue this provision grants the Chinese government a broader justification for pursuing dissidents abroad. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun dismissed these concerns, accusing "certain countries" of making "sweeping generalizations" and "maliciously smearing China's ethnic policies."

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respect the basic facts, stop spreading falsehoods, and stop exploiting the so-called ethnic issues as a pretext for interfering in China’s internal affairs

Guo urged these nations to "respect the basic facts, stop spreading falsehoods, and stop exploiting the so-called ethnic issues as a pretext for interfering in China's internal affairs." He did not name specific countries. U.S. lawmakers have voiced strong opposition, vowing to challenge Beijing's efforts to "legitimize its transnational repression." The UN human rights chief has called for the law's repeal, while Amnesty International warns it will "further institutionalize policies of forced assimilation."

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legitimise its transnational repression