China’s “Ethnic Unity” Law: A Framework for Forced Assimilation

China's new "Ethnic Unity" Law, enacted in 2026, aims to promote assimilation among its diverse ethnic groups, raising concerns about cultural erasure and human rights violations. Passed overwhelmingly by the National People's Congress, the law officially comes into effect on July 1, 2026. Critics argue it could lead to forced cultural changes, threatening the preservation of minority languages, traditions, and identities, sparking international concern about China's approach to ethnic relations. This move underscores the tension between national unity and the protection of cultural diversity.