China passes new law promoting ethnic unity, raising assimilation concerns

China has adopted a new law aimed at promoting ethnic unity. The legislation emphasizes the use of a common national language and has been described by official sources as a measure to strengthen national cohesion.

Human rights groups and critics say the law will increase pressure on ethnic minorities, including Uyghurs and Tibetans, and could lead to forced cultural assimilation. They express concern it could threaten the survival of minority languages and further reduce tolerance for cultural diversity within the country.