China asserted its right to enforce its new Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law extraterritorially, according to a statement by a senior judicial official. The law, effective July 1st, is intended to promote ethnic harmony within China. However, rights advocates express concern that the legislation could be used to target and suppress minority groups residing outside of China’s borders. The official defended the law as a legitimate exercise of sovereignty, dismissing criticisms regarding its potential overreach. This declaration raises fears about increased pressure on diaspora communities and potential infringements on international law. The law’s broad scope and China’s assertion of its application beyond its borders have sparked international scrutiny. Concerns center on the potential for the law to be weaponized against critics and activists.