CALD Statement No. 2, S. 2026

CALD Strongly Opposes China’s “Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law,” Calls on the International Community to Uphold Sovereignty, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law

The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD) expresses its deep concern and strong opposition to the “Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law” that was passed by China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) on 12 March 2026 and officially took effect last 1 July 2026.

While the law aims to promote ethnic unity through the use of Mandarin in education, government, and public life, it also contains provisions that appear to extend China’s legal jurisdiction beyond its borders. Such extraterritorial claims raise serious questions about their compatibility with international law and the sovereign rights of other states.

Article 63 of the law, in its translated version, states that “organizations and individuals outside of mainland China who commit crimes aimed at [China] that undermine ethnic unity and progress or create ethnic division are to be pursued for legal responsibility in accordance with law.” The broad and ambiguous language of this provision creates significant risks of arbitrary interpretation and enforcement against individuals and organizations operating outside China’s jurisdiction.

CALD believes that laws with vague and expansive extraterritorial provisions undermine the principles of legal certainty, respect for national sovereignty, and the protection of fundamental freedoms. If interpreted broadly, the law may contribute to the normalization of transnational repression wherein such provisions could be used to intimidate or pursue critics, activists, journalists, civil society organizations, and diaspora communities beyond China’s borders, creating a chilling effect on freedom of expression and political participation.

As a regional alliance committed to liberal democracy, CALD reaffirms that lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through respect for the rule of law and the universal protection of human rights. Genuine unity cannot be imposed through coercion or legal intimidation, but must be built on mutual respect, pluralism, and the free exercise of fundamental freedoms.

CALD therefore calls on the international community to closely examine the implications of this legislation and to remain vigilant in safeguarding the sovereignty of all nations, the independence of democratic institutions, and the rights of individuals protected under international law.

CALD remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace, democratic cooperation, and a rules-based international order where differences are resolved through dialogue, respect for international law, and constructive engagement among nations.

Florencio B. Abad

Chairperson

3 July 2026

Categorised in: Statements

This post was written by CALD