China adopts 'patriotic education' law for schools, families

China's national legislature passed a law strengthening the patriotic education of children and families, local media reported on Wednesday.

According to Beijing-based news agency Xinhua, the National People's Congress on Tuesday passed the Patriotic Education Law, which creates a legal basis for patriotic education responsibilities designated to various entities starting on Jan. 1, 2024. These entities include government departments, schools and families.

The law incorporates provisions from existing laws, such as the National Anthem Law and the Law on the Protection of Heroes and Martyrs, prohibiting actions like disrespecting the national flag and distorting heroism.

It stresses the role of national award systems in recognizing outstanding contributions.

The law underscores patriotic education for youth and establishes requirements for different groups, including government employees, workers in various sectors, urban and rural residents, and people from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas.