China reviews major draft laws at its Two Sessions, including a proposed environmental code and a draft law on promoting ethnic unity and progress.
Legislation is a key focus of China’s two sessions, currently underway in Beijing. This year, lawmakers are reviewing several major draft laws, including a proposed ecological and environmental code and a draft law on promoting ethnic unity and progress.
Why is the Code a Milestone?
Lawmakers are examining a draft ecological and environmental code at the annual session of the National People’s Congress in Beijing.
If adopted, the legislation will become China’s second statutory code after the Civil Code, which took effect in 2021.
China has established an extensive environmental legal framework. It includes more than 30 laws, over 100 administrative regulations and more than 1,000 local regulations, along with numerous national standards. However, some provisions overlap, and coordination between different rules has presented challenges.
The draft code seeks to integrate existing laws into a unified structure. According to officials, the move aims to improve consistency and coherence in environmental governance.
Notably, the draft includes a standalone section on green and low-carbon development. This section outlines legal provisions related to carbon reduction, energy transition and sustainable development.
Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the NPC session, said at a press conference that the code will provide a stronger legal foundation for environmental protection and modernisation efforts.
Why is the Draft Law on Ethnic Unity Needed?
Meanwhile, lawmakers are also reviewing a draft law on promoting ethnic unity and progress. The draft includes a preamble and seven chapters, comprising 64 articles.
China’s economic and social landscape has undergone significant changes in recent decades, with rapid urbanisation and increased population mobility. Exchanges among ethnic groups across regions have become more frequent.
Zhang Shaochun, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the new law responds to evolving governance needs. He noted that dedicated legislation would help ensure that policies supporting ethnic unity apply across regions and populations.
At a press conference, Lou said the draft law aims to strengthen a shared sense of national community and safeguard the lawful rights and interests of people from all ethnic groups.
The draft law sets out general principles, responsibilities of relevant institutions, and specific measures related to cultural exchange, social integration, and balanced development.
Written by Chen Wang, additional reporting by CNS, Chinadaily.
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