On October 24, China introduced the new national Patriotic Education Law, citing citizens' constitutional duty to preserve national unity and the security of the motherland. The law is seen as a step towards reinforcing President Xi Jinping's push for the assimilation of ethnic minority regions into a unified "community of Chinese nationhood" under the banner of Sinicization.

The legislation, passed by the National People's Congress, aims to provide a legal framework for patriotic education. It comes amidst perceived challenges to patriotic education, including what the government terms "historical nihilism," which denotes views contradicting the state-sanctioned historical narrative.

Set to take effect on January 1, 2024, the law encompasses a wide range of entities, from government departments to schools and families, outlining their responsibilities in fostering patriotic education. The report highlights patriotism as a unifying force, integral to building a prosperous nation and fostering the collective spirit needed for China's modernization journey.

The new law is described as an extension of existing regulations such as the National Anthem Law and the Law on the Protection of Heroes and Martyrs, aimed at safeguarding national symbols and preserving historical narratives. It is framed as a tool to fortify the national spirit and propel China's aspirations for rejuvenation along a unique path to modernization.