How does Amnesty say the law institutionalises forced assimilation?

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Amnesty International States the Law Institutionalises Forced Assimilation Through Ideological Alignment and Uniform National Identity

Amnesty International contends that China's new ethnic unity law institutionalises forced assimilation by demanding political and ideological alignment with the Chinese Communist Party. Deputy Regional Director Sarah Brooks stated the legislation compels ethnic groups to adopt a singular, state-defined national identity that is predominantly influenced by Han Chinese culture. This, according to the human rights organisation, directly contradicts China's obligations to protect minority communities and their distinct cultures.
Requirement for Political and Ideological Alignment

The core of Amnesty International's concern lies in the law's explicit requirement for "political and ideological alignment with the Chinese Communist Party." This provision suggests that adherence to the party's political doctrines and ideological framework will become a mandatory aspect of ethnic relations within China. Brooks indicated that this clause aims to ensure that all ethnic groups conform to the party's overarching political agenda, thereby limiting independent thought or expression that deviates from the state-sanctioned narrative.
Promotion of a Uniform National Identity

Furthermore, the organisation highlights that the law is designed to "further institutionalise... policies of forced assimilation" by pushing ethnic groups towards adopting a "single, state-defined national identity dominated by Han Chinese culture." This implies a deliberate effort to erode the distinct cultural practices, languages, and traditions of minority groups, such as the Uyghurs and Tibetans, in favour of a homogenised identity based on the majority Han culture. Amnesty International views this as a direct assault on the cultural diversity that the Chinese government is obliged to protect.
Contradiction of Human Rights Obligations

Amnesty International's analysis concludes that the law operates in direct opposition to China's international human rights obligations. Instead of safeguarding minority communities and their cultures, the legislation actively undermines them by imposing a uniform cultural and ideological standard. This approach, according to Brooks, is indicative of policies that seek to suppress rather than support the rights and distinctiveness of China's ethnic minorities.

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How does Amnesty say the law institutionalises forced assimilation?

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