A recently enacted law in China could potentially broaden the country’s reach in targeting dissenters overseas, a Taiwanese security official has cautioned. The Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, which came into force this week, mandates that all Chinese citizens uphold national unity. This legislation further permits legal actions against those accused of promoting division, extending its reach beyond China’s borders.
China reportedly employs various strategies for transnational repression, according to the official. These include criminalizing anti-government expressions made abroad, exerting pressure on critics by threatening their families, and utilizing international legal instruments like Interpol red notices to pursue dissidents. Additionally, the law facilitates the branding of pro-democracy supporters as extremists and supports actions such as abductions or forced repatriations.
Concerns over violations of international law and diplomatic protocols have been raised as allegations surface that China operates overseas police stations. These stations are purportedly tasked with surveilling and influencing critics in foreign countries, further tightening China’s grip on dissent.
In response, Taiwan has taken measures to enhance public awareness about the potential risks associated with traveling to China. The island nation is also bolstering its defenses against activities that could lead to foreign interference, reflecting heightened vigilance in the face of China’s expansive policies.