A newly enacted law in China has prompted warnings from a Taiwanese security official about the potential for expanded repression of critics living abroad. The Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, which went into effect this week, obligates Chinese citizens to back national unity, granting Beijing the authority to legally pursue individuals or organizations accused of fostering division, regardless of their location.
The security official highlighted several strategies that China employs for transnational repression. These include criminalizing anti-government speech made overseas, intimidating critics by threatening their families, using international legal systems such as Interpol to track down dissidents, labeling supporters of pro-democracy movements as extremists, and conducting abductions or forced repatriations.
Concerns have also been raised regarding China’s alleged operation of overseas police stations. According to the official, these stations are used to monitor and exert pressure on critics residing in foreign countries, potentially violating international law and diplomatic norms.
In response to these developments, Taiwan has been ramping up its efforts to educate the public about the dangers of traveling to China. The Taiwanese government is also bolstering initiatives to counteract activities that could lead to foreign interference, ensuring that its citizens remain informed and protected against such risks.