Ethnic Relations in Xinjiang: A Survey of Uygur-Han Relations in Urumqi

A careful & observant traveler to Xinjiang may sense tense ethnic relations in the region. This article is primarily based on a survey & fieldwork conducted in Aug 2000 in Urumqi. Our findings indicate that (1) there is a low degree of integration between the two ethnic groups; (2) the Uygurs have a very strong ethnic identity; (3) members of both Han & Uygur ethnic groups including local cadres have prejudices against the opposite group; & (4) Uygurs are critical of government policies toward the national minorities including policy toward the national separatists. The Chinese government has adopted a policy of ethnic segregation & used repressive campaigns against the separatists. However, it appears that Beijing does not really have the ethnic conflicts in the region under control. Ethnic unrest in Xinjiang remains a thorn in the People's Republic of China's political stability & national security. 30 Tables. Adapted from the source document.