The Hui and the Uyghurs: A Comparison of Relationships with the Chinese State (2013 Winner)

Abstract

The author examines the historical, social, and cultural connections between China and its Muslim minority groups, focusing on the Hui and Uyghur populations. Though both groups are officially granted some measure of religious freedom and autonomy under the Chinese constitution, their relationships with the state are quite different. The Hui enjoy a relatively peaceful coexistence with the government, striving to balance their distinct cultural and religious belief with integration into mainstream Chinese society. The Ugyhurs, however, maintain a separatist stance toward the government and face much harsher regulations and more extreme forms of discrimination.