The Chinese Embassy urges media outlets like The Star to prioritise accuracy and fairness in reporting on international laws, urging a deeper understanding of China’s varied ethnic policies.
The AFP article republished by The Star on page 5 of its 30 June edition concerning China’s Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law does not convey the truth. Here is what the law is about:
The law ensures that all ethnic groups are protected by the same legal order, connected by a shared national future, and included in China’s modernisation.
First, the law affirms the principle of equality for all ethnic groups. It provides that all citizens are equal, and all ethnic groups are equal. It also upholds and improves the system of regional ethnic autonomy and requires the state to protect the lawful rights and interests of all ethnic groups. In a country with 56 ethnic groups, more than 1.4 billion population and a vast territory, such a legal framework in China is essential to ensure that all communities are protected by the same constitutional order.
Second, the law is about promoting common development and prosperity. It provides that the state supports ethnic areas in integrating into national development strategies, strengthening their capacity for self-development, accelerating high-quality development, and promoting common prosperity.
