Resolution on the new Chinese law on ‘ethnic unity and progress’ and the intensified suppression of ethnic identities

The European Parliament adopted by 439 votes to 52, with 71 abstentions, a resolution on the new Chinese law on ‘ethnic unity and progress’ and the intensified suppression of ethnic identities.

The text adopted in plenary was tabled by the EPP, S&D, ECR, Renew, Greens/EFA groups and Members.

On 12 March 2026, China’s National People’s Congress adopted the Law on the Promotion of Ethnic Unity and Progress, which further integrates state ideology and prioritises Mandarin in education, public life and media, and intensifies institutionalised repression and assimilation of ethnic minority identities, including Tibetans, Hui, Uyghurs, Manchus and Mongolians. This law departs significantly from China’s 1984 Regional Ethnic Autonomy Law.

The deterioration of China’s human rights situation has put a strain on its relations with the EU.

Against this background, Parliament strongly condemns China’s repressive assimilation policies and consequent violations of universal human rights, including in Tibet, Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia. It expressed grave concern over the adopted Law on the Promotion of Ethnic Unity and Progress and urged China to repeal this law.

All EU Member States are urged to suspend extradition treaties with China to protect persecuted individuals residing in the EU from the risks of transnational repression under this law. In addition, Parliament called on the Council to implement the EU Global Sanctions Regime against those responsible for the new law.

Chinese authorities’ attempts to interfere in the recognition and education of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leaders is strongly rejected by the Parliament. Members stressed that the succession of the Dalai Lama is a purely religious matter, which must be determined exclusively in accordance with Tibetan Buddhist traditions.

The resolution called for the immediate release of China’s political prisoners, including Sakharov Prize laureate Ilham Tohti.

Lastly, Parliament considers that the introduction and enforcement of this law will lead to severe consequences for EU-China relations.