Do you know what the euphemistic justification was? “Cleanliness”? I cannot think of one that is not absurd to even the dimmest ethno-nationalist of my imagination.
If I had to guess they'd just say the beard is a symbol of separatism, therefore if you refuse to shave then we might consider you to be sympathetic to the separatist movement, you wouldn't want us to think that, would you?
It's circular logic but probably good enough for the fascists...
Geez, serves me right for using an "-ist" word and getting an anal retentive "They're a different sort of '-ist'" comment.
The Wikipedia definition "Fascism is a form of far-right, authoritarian ultranationalism characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society and of the economy" seems to tick all the boxes in the case of China, although I don't know if they fit the definition "far right" (too lazy to see if they tick those other boxes).
The problem with "-ist" and "-ism" words is everyone has their own definition what this means. Bernie Sanders can call himself a socialist that thinks the rich should be taxed more, and some dumbass will think he hates Jews because the Nazi party also has the word "Socialism" in it.
Also, if you want to say "They're communists because that word is in their party name", then the Democratic People's Republic of (North) Korea must be a great place to live, since they're democratic, and belong to the people!
There are very few countries worldwide that can look through their history and not find a single culture that has been eliminated or at least marginalized.
Officially, no. But in reality, yes. They want to make the Uyghurs more Han to reduce feelings of separatism.