China's Patriotic Education: A Modern-Day Brainwashing Campaign?

China's new Patriotic Education Law mandates ideological indoctrination in schools, aiming to foster absolute loyalty to the ruling Chinese Communist Party. Comparing the methods to Nazi Germany's, critics argue the regime seeks to instill ultra-nationalistic views and readiness for conflict, especially against Taiwan and the West.

China's recent Patriotic Education Law enforces state-directed ideological content across all educational sectors, a move reminiscent of historic indoctrination methods. The law, passed by the National People's Congress (NPC) on October 24, 2023, aims to cultivate unwavering loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) among the young.

Critics argue this is blatant brainwashing, equating it with Nazi Germany's tactics. Shenzhen resident Li Jia said she'd rather risk an uncertain future abroad than let her child undergo such ideological indoctrination. Many fear that Beijing's efforts are increasingly desperate, given the rising number of Communist Youth League members and "Red Army" schools since 2007.

As China expands military education nationwide, children as young as six are now engaged in simulated military drills. With Xi Jinping emphasizing the need to 'inherit red genes' and cultivate societal ultra-nationalism, experts warn this may be a precursor to heightened aggression towards neighbors and fueling anti-Western sentiment.

(With inputs from agencies.)