London | 10th December 2024 | GATPM
Honouring His Legacy on Human Rights Day with the Tibetan Peace Garden’s 25th Anniversary
As the world observes Human Rights Day, we celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. For over six decades, the Dalai Lama has been a guiding light for peace, compassion, and justice. His leadership has defined the Tibetan freedom movement and transformed the Tibetan political system into a model of democratic governance.
This year also marks the 35th anniversary of His Holiness receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, recognising his steadfast commitment to non-violence and his “Middle Way” approach, which seeks genuine autonomy for Tibet within the framework of the People’s Republic of China. His unyielding belief in dialogue and mutual respect as paths to peace stands as a testament to his vision and resolve.
The Dalai Lama’s commitment to democracy is among his most profound contributions. Under his leadership, the Tibetan government-in-exile (now the Central Tibetan Administration) evolved into a democratic institution. In 2011, His Holiness made the historic decision to relinquish his political authority, transferring leadership to an elected Sikyong, or Tibetan Prime Minister. This bold move ensured that the Tibetan struggle for freedom would be sustained by democratic principles and the collective will of the Tibetan people.
As he approaches his 90th birthday in 2025, His Holiness continues to inspire millions worldwide through his teachings on compassion, interdependence, and justice. His dedication to interfaith dialogue, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of Tibetan culture has earned him numerous accolades, including the US Congressional Gold Medal and the Templeton Prize. Yet, his humility and four enduring commitments – to promote human values, foster interfaith harmony, preserve Tibetan culture, and revive ancient Nalanda wisdom – remain at the heart of his work.
A Milestone Celebration at the Tibetan Peace Garden
Today, the 25th anniversary of the Tibetan Peace Garden is also marked with an interfaith service led by faith leaders, the Mayor of Southwark and the London-based Dalai Lama’s Representative, organised by the Lelung Dharma Trust. This garden, blessed by His Holiness during its inauguration in 1999, embodies his vision of unity and peace.
At the heart of the Tibetan Peace Garden stands a stone pillar engraved with the Dalai Lama’s timeless message:
“We human beings are passing through a crucial period in our development. Conflicts and mistrust have plagued the past century, which has brought immeasurable human suffering and environmental destruction. It is in the interests of all of us on this planet that we make a joint effort to turn the next century into an era of peace and harmony.
May this peace garden become a monument to the courage of the Tibetan people and their commitment to peace.
May it remain as a symbol to remind us that human survival depends on living in harmony and always choosing the path of non-violence in resolving our differences.”
This profound message resonates deeply today, reminding us of the urgent need for collective action to foster peace and harmony.
A Call to Action
On behalf of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM), Tsering Passang expressed gratitude for the Dalai Lama’s extraordinary contributions:
“His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s life and work inspire us to build a better future – one grounded in compassion, dialogue, and justice. As we celebrate this special anniversary of the Tibetan Peace Garden, let us recommit to his vision of a world where peace prevails and human dignity is upheld for all.”
As we prepare to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday in 2025, his teachings continue to guide humanity. Let us honour his legacy by choosing the path of peace and harmony for generations to come.
Useful Links:
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 