Taiwanese President William Lai has issued a robust condemnation of China’s newly enacted Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress, emphasizing that Taiwan will reject any form of “red terror” or efforts by Beijing to extend its influence over the island. During a meeting with the Democratic Progressive Party’s Central Executive Committee, Lai described the legislation as a broadening of China’s authoritarian agenda, posing threats that extend beyond its own borders. He committed to bolstering Taiwan’s defenses to protect its citizens and national interests from mounting political pressure exerted by Beijing.
The controversial law, passed by China’s National People’s Congress in March and now in effect, mandates that Chinese citizens support national unification. It also permits authorities to hold individuals or organizations accountable for actions deemed harmful to ethnic unity or supportive of ethnic division, though the law does not provide clear definitions for these offenses. In Taiwan, critics argue the legislation is an attempt to reinforce the narrative that Taiwanese people are part of a larger Chinese national identity.
Lai expressed concerns that the law might serve as a pretext for cross-border enforcement, potentially increasing pressure on individuals and organizations outside of mainland China. He cited over 110 instances where Beijing has already exerted cross-border pressure on Taiwan and warned of the possibility of these actions expanding. Lai highlighted the risk that foreign governments, businesses, lawmakers, civil society groups, and private individuals could face arbitrary measures due to the law’s expansive nature.
In response to these developments, the Taiwanese government is set to enhance monitoring systems, improve early warning mechanisms, and consider additional policies to shield citizens from external interference. Lai also revealed plans to broaden media literacy programs, boost civil servant training, and develop stronger prevention and response strategies to counter Beijing’s growing campaign of cross-border repression. Taiwan intends to continue collaborating with democratic allies to elevate international awareness regarding human rights issues and uphold its sovereignty.
Echoing the president’s concerns, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the legislation as an attempt by Beijing to project its legal authority beyond its borders, conflicting with international norms and human rights standards. The ministry warned that the law’s ambiguous language could foster self-censorship and create uncertainty among those wary of retaliation. The legislation has faced international criticism from entities such as the United States, Japan, the European Union, the United Nations, and Amnesty International, all of which have expressed apprehension about its potential impact on human rights, legal clarity, and freedom of expression.