China passes law to promote ethnic unity
China has adopted a far-reaching new law aimed at promoting what authorities describe as “ethnic unity,” a move that officials say will strengthen national cohesion. Critics, however, warn that the legislation could further limit the cultural and linguistic rights of minority groups across the country. On paper, the law seeks to foster integration among the country’s 56 officially recognized ethnic groups, which are largely dominated by the Han majority. The measures include policies linked to education, housing, and social integration intended to encourage closer interaction between communities. One of the most significant provisions concerns language education. The law requires that Mandarin be taught to children before kindergarten and remain the primary language of instruction through high school. Previously, many students in minority regions were able to study much of their curriculum in local languages such as Tibetan, Uyghur, or Mongolian. […]