29
Apr
2026
Watch
New Chinese law on ‘ethnic unity and progress’ and the intensified suppression of ethnic identities
Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, The law on ethnic unity in China unfortunately forces us to deal again with China in a negative context in the European Parliament. Let's imagine: A Presidency of the Council of the European Union would decide: the ethnic unity of the European Union. What would that mean for France? What would that mean for Australia? We have to ask ourselves this question. What would this mean for our colleagues from the Basque Country? In Spain? Ethnic unity – we have not had a good experience with it in Europe. And we in Europe want to learn from our mistakes. That is why we feel compelled, but also compelled under international law, to say to China: If ethnic unity means: no more cultures, no more languages – then we have a problem under international law. And China has recognized international law and has rightly urged third countries to comply with international law in recent weeks. And so today we are confidently admonishing China to comply with international law. Ethnic unity means diversity in one's own country.