In a compelling address at the Ketagalan Forum in Taiwan, former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland has raised alarms over China’s recently enacted Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress. Freeland argues that the law’s provisions bear unsettling similarities to the rhetoric used by Russian President Vladimir Putin to justify his military aggression against Ukraine. Her remarks come at a time when Taiwan, a self-governing democracy under constant threat from Beijing, seeks to fortify its international alliances.
A New Legal Framework for Control
The controversial law, which came into force on July 1, allows Beijing to hold individuals and entities outside of China legally accountable for actions deemed to threaten its “ethnic unity.” Critics, including Freeland, have highlighted the ambiguities within the law, noting that it lacks clear definitions, thereby granting the Chinese government considerable leeway in its enforcement. This broad interpretation could serve as a pretext for targeting dissidents and activists abroad, particularly those in Taiwan, whom Beijing categorises as separatists.
During her keynote speech, Freeland voiced her concerns, drawing parallels between China’s legal framework and Putin’s justifications for territorial expansion. She cited Article 63 of the new legislation, which she described as “particularly sinister,” reminiscent of the justification Russia has used to encroach upon the sovereignty of its neighbours. “The disturbing kinship with Russia’s malign use of linguistic, cultural, and ethnic ties to justify illegal encroachment on sovereignty cannot be overlooked,” Freeland stressed.
Historical Lessons from Ukraine
Freeland’s insights are rooted in her extensive experience both as a journalist covering the fall of the Soviet Union and as a senior government official during Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine. She articulated a critical lesson from Ukraine’s plight: appeasement of authoritarian regimes does not guarantee security. The former deputy prime minister pointed to the West’s inadequate response to Russia’s earlier aggressions, such as the 2008 invasion of Georgia and the annexation of Crimea in 2014, suggesting these missteps contributed to Putin’s miscalculation in Ukraine.
“The lesson of history is clear,” Freeland asserted, urging democratic nations to adopt a firm stance against such legislation. “We must not mince our words about this legislation,” she insisted, emphasising that foreign laws premised on ethnic loyalty should hold no authority within democratic territories.
Taiwan’s Strategic Importance
Freeland’s address also underscored Taiwan’s strategic role in the global supply chain, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing. She compared Taiwan’s situation to Ukraine’s drone industry, arguing that Taiwan’s technological prowess positions it as a vital ally for democracies rather than a mere dependency. Emphasising the need for stronger ties, she called for support for Taiwan’s application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, a significant trade pact involving Canada and other nations.
In her conclusion, Freeland reiterated the importance of solidarity among democratic nations. “The peace of the Strait of Taiwan will be maintained by the clarity with which the world’s democracies assert that we will not accept any disruption to the status quo,” she declared. Her plea for unity resonates as Taiwan faces increasing military threats from China, which claims the island as part of its territory.
China’s Response and Future Implications
Following Freeland’s speech, China’s embassy in Canada did not offer immediate comments. However, the state-run Global Times dismissed the forum as a gathering of “former and marginal foreign politicians” attempting to promote “Taiwan independence.” This response underscores the sensitivities surrounding Taiwan and the broader implications of China’s assertive policies.
Freeland’s resignation from her position as an MP in January 2026 has not diminished her influence; she continues to serve as an economic development adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and leads the Rhodes Trust, demonstrating her enduring commitment to global democratic values.
Why it Matters
Freeland’s warnings serve as a crucial reminder of the interconnectedness of global political dynamics. The enactment of China’s ethnic unity law not only poses a direct threat to individuals deemed antagonistic to Beijing but also signals a broader strategy of authoritarianism that could inspire similar behaviours from other regimes. As Taiwan stands at the frontline of this geopolitical struggle, Freeland’s call for solidarity among democracies is more relevant than ever. The choices made today will reverberate across the globe, shaping the future of international relations and the very principles of sovereignty and human rights.