SUMMARY

The conflict between the Han Chinese and Uighur ethnic groups was preceded by longstanding tensions between the two groups. The strategically important Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region is the largest provincial unit in China and borders several countries. Uighurs are the largest ethnic group in the province, but during the last decades, the Han Chinese population has increased rapidly from a few percents to about 40 percent. Many Uighurs complain of discrimination and want a larger degree of autonomy. Official figures point to higher unemployment and poverty rates for the Uighurs compared to ethnic Han Chinese.

The Government of China has responded to the growing tensions between the ethnic groups by further limiting religious and cultural expressions. The government has also referred to security operations in the province as part of the global war on terror. For more information, see the state-based conflict Government of China – ETIM.

The non-state conflict between Han Chinese and Uighur is first included in UCDP data in year 2009. In July of that year, violent clashes flared up between members of the ethnic groups, resulting in over 25 battle-related deaths.