A new law enacted by China, known as the Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, is raising alarms in Taiwan over its potential to extend Beijing’s reach in silencing critics globally. Effective this week, the legislation mandates that Chinese citizens uphold national unity and introduces the possibility of legal actions against those accused of fostering division, regardless of their location. A Taiwanese security official has expressed concern that this could enhance China’s ability to target dissenters residing abroad.
The official outlined five primary strategies employed by China for transnational repression. These include criminalizing anti-government expressions made overseas, intimidating critics by threatening their families, and utilizing international legal channels, such as Interpol red notices, to track dissidents. Additionally, the law enables the labeling of pro-democracy advocates as extremists and permits kidnappings or forced repatriations.
Concerns also extend to allegations that China is operating overseas police stations to monitor and exert pressure on its critics residing in other countries. Such actions have sparked fears of international law violations and breaches of diplomatic norms, as they could infringe upon the sovereignty of the nations hosting these stations.
In response to these developments, Taiwan is taking measures to safeguard its citizens. Efforts include increasing public awareness about the potential risks associated with traveling to China. Furthermore, Taiwan is enhancing its initiatives to counter activities that could facilitate foreign interference, aiming to protect its residents from becoming targets under the new law.