Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart trembles at your word.
China’s Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress officially took effect on July 1, establishing a legal basis for holding individuals and organizations overseas liable for criticizing the country’s ethnic policies.
At the center of the controversy is Article 63, which allows legal action against those whom Chinese authorities determine have undermined ethnic unity or incited separatism outside China’s borders. Human rights organizations argue that the provision represents an expansion of China’s long-arm jurisdiction, extending the reach of Chinese law beyond its national borders. They warn that it could facilitate transnational repression targeting overseas activists, journalists, religious organizations, and members of the Chinese diaspora, while further restricting freedom of expression.
The law also strengthens the legal priority of Standard Chinese (Putonghua) and makes political loyalty a legal obligation. Critics warn that these provisions could lead to tighter government control over the languages, cultures, and religious practices of ethnic minority groups, including Tibetans and Uyghurs.
The Chinese government, however, maintains that the law is a legitimate exercise of national sovereignty aimed at safeguarding national security and combating separatism. Beijing further argues that the legislation is in line with international law. (Source: Gospel Prayer News, Edited version)
All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal. Rulers persecute me without cause, but my heart trembles at your word. (Psalm 119:160-161, NIV)
God, rebuke the pride of the Chinese Communist Party as it seeks to silence criticism of its power not only within China but also beyond its borders. Strengthen the church in China and churches among the nations to stand firm under policies that deny the living God. Let them not be shaken by the empty threats of the authorities. Instead, write Your righteous laws on their hearts, so they may fear You alone and remain faithful to Your Word. As Your church stands against Satan’s schemes to hide the truth, may Your people fight this battle through the gospel and prayer, may Your kingdom advance and bring revival among the nations.
Prayer 24·365
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