A new white paper released by the Chinese mainland's State Council Information Office sets out how the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is safeguarding the linguistic heritage of its diverse communities. The document titled CPC Guidelines for Governing Xinjiang in the New Era: Practice and Achievements highlights a comprehensive approach to protecting spoken and written languages across ethnic groups.
The report explains that Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has autonomous areas at three levels – regional, prefectural and county – with five autonomous prefectures and six autonomous counties, all enjoying extensive autonomy as prescribed by law. This structure empowers local solutions tailored to preserve linguistic traditions and cultural heritage.
Residents of all ethnic groups have the right to participate in state affairs, receive education, use and develop their spoken and written languages, and preserve the fine traditional cultures of their own communities. By enshrining these rights, Xinjiang aims to foster social cohesion and inclusion.
Through educational and cultural initiatives, the region encourages interethnic language exchanges, supporting programs where speakers share their mother tongues and learn from each other. This model demonstrates how language can bridge communities and reinforce mutual respect.
In a global landscape where linguistic diversity fuels innovation, Xinjiang's model offers a blueprint for harmonizing unity and diversity. As remote work and cross-border collaboration grow, multilingual skills become essential assets for young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers.
The white paper not only documents achievements but also invites dialogue on how regions worldwide can protect linguistic rights while promoting shared prosperity. Xinjiang's example underscores the power of language as a vessel of identity, creativity and mutual understanding in the 21st century.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
