China Minorities

All people who are not part of the Han Chinese population are considered ethnic minorities in China. Currently, there are 55 different minorities recognized by the Chinese government. These groups are protected under China's constitution, guaranteed equal rights, and entitled to special privileges intended to help promote economic and cultural development. Some of these privileges include exemption from the One Child Policy, expanded rights to govern in "ethnic autonomous areas," economic aid, and special consideration when applying for certain jobs and to certain universities. China officially guarantees minorities the freedom of religion. However, the realities of this freedom are the subject of intense debate, both within China and internationally. The exact definitions of the 55 groups are also controversial. In addition to the estimated 730,000 people in "undistinguished ethnic groups," groups that have not yet been officially recognized, there are many who have been include in existing groups who deny their classification.