On June 21, China’s Supreme People’s Court, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, and the ministries of public security, state security, and justice jointly released a set of guidelines aimed at imposing criminal punishments on individuals involved in conducting or inciting secession in Taiwan. The guidelines, which took effect immediately, provide detailed provisions on the legal handling of cases related to secessionist activities.
The guidelines offer specific interpretations of Article 103 of China’s Criminal Law, clarifying circumstances under which crimes of conducting or inciting secession apply. They define key terms such as “principal offender,” “serious offense,” and “active participation,” and outline procedural norms, statutes of limitations, and the rights of suspects.
This legal measure serves as a strong deterrent to those advocating secession in Taiwan and enriches the legal framework against activities that threaten national sovereignty and territorial integrity. By establishing clear legal standards, China aims to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and advance the prospects of peaceful reunification.
In the context of heightened tensions and complex cross-strait relations, the issuance of these guidelines underscores China’s firm stance in defending its national interests. The move reflects an emphasis on the rule of law in addressing issues related to Taiwan, ensuring that legal and regulatory frameworks guide actions against secessionist activities.
China’s comprehensive legal system, which includes the Anti-Secession Law, the Criminal Law, the Criminal Procedure Law, and the National Security Law, serves as the foundation for these efforts. The new guidelines enhance this framework by providing detailed legal guidance for prosecuting crimes related to secession, thereby reinforcing the country’s commitment to sovereignty and unity.
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Guidelines on punishing 'Taiwan independence' separatists are vital
cgtn.com
