China implemented a sweeping ethnic unity law on July 1 that designates Mandarin as the primary language for schools and government agencies across the country. The law prohibits acts deemed to incite division among China’s 56 ethnic groups and requires institutions to promote patriotism and national unity. The Chinese government characterizes the policy as improving educational opportunities and ensuring equal access for ethnic minorities.
The law has drawn criticism from rights groups and Tibetan activists, who contend it represents forced cultural assimilation and expanded control over minority populations. Similar language policies have been implemented in other regions, including expanded Mandarin education for Uyghurs in Xinjiang and changes to Mongolian-language instruction in Inner Mongolia. Some observers note the policy codifies trends that have been developing over several years. The Associated Press visited Tibet in July on a government-organized tour that included stops in Lhasa and Shannan, where official displays prominently featured messages promoting ethnic unity and national integration.
Despite the policy environment, some Tibetans have found ways to maintain their cultural identity through language study, family practice, traditional crafts, and religious observance. A 73-year-old retired nurse has enrolled in calligraphy classes to learn written Tibetan, while a 19-year-old student emphasized the importance of passing Tibetan language and culture to future generations. Tibetan Buddhism remains widely practiced, though prominent religious sites contain no public references to the exiled current Dalai Lama, whose succession has become contentious. Beijing asserts that any succession must comply with Chinese law and receive government approval, while the Dalai Lama’s office maintains sole authority to recognize his reincarnation.
Visibility of Chinese governance and symbols is extensive throughout the region, with national flags, portraits of President Xi Jinping, and bilingual signage emphasizing unity appearing in public spaces. Government officials noted that cultural preservation efforts focus on elements considered less politically sensitive, including traditional crafts, celebrations, and tourism-related activities. Scholars observe that Beijing’s approach tends to emphasize cultural forms that do not challenge political control while potentially attracting tourism revenue. Access to Tibet remains restricted for foreigners, with visitors typically subject to government-organized itineraries and official accompaniment.
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