London | 14 May 2025 | GATPM

The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) proudly joined a coalition of over 60 press freedom and human rights organisations, led by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), in calling for the immediate release of Chinese journalist Zhang Zhan.

This joint appeal, issued on 14 May to mark the fifth anniversary of Zhang Zhan’s initial arrest, underscores the global outcry against her continued arbitrary detention. Zhang Zhan’s health has critically deteriorated due to repeated hunger strikes in protest of her unjust imprisonment. GATPM stands in solidarity with all those defending press freedom and human rights in China, and urgently demands that Chinese authorities release Zhang Zhan without delay.

Joint Statement from Civil Society Groups on the Chinese Government’s Arbitrary Detention of Journalist Zhang Zhan 

We, the undersigned press freedom and human rights organisations, strongly condemn the Chinese government’s ongoing arbitrary detention of journalist, human rights defender and former lawyer Zhang Zhan, on the 5th anniversary of her arrest. 

Zhang is an outspoken journalist, and one of many Chinese citizens who are imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of the press and expression. Zhang Zhan was first detained on 14 May 2020, after she travelled to the city of Wuhan to courageously report on the early stages of Covid-19 pandemic, documenting overflowing hospitals, empty shops, and families of victims and independent journalists being harassed by the authorities. She is currently persecuted for supporting pro-democracy activist Zhang Pancheng, and reporting on human rights violations in the country.

At the beginning of March 2025, NGOs sources confirmed that Zhang will soon be tried on the charge of “picking quarrels and provoking trouble”, a charge often used by Chinese authorities to suppress journalists, writers and human rights defenders. The date of her trial is still unknown, as she remains detained in the Pudong Detention Center in Shanghai, facing an additional up to 5 years in prison if convicted.

Zhang Zhan, was apprehended by the police on 28 August 2024, only three months after completion of an earlier four-year sentence under the same charge, while travelling to her hometown in the Shaanxi province in northwest China. In the weeks leading up to this incident, Zhang kept reporting on the harassment of activists in China on her social media. 

Her first detention was deemed arbitrary under international human rights law by the UN’s Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in a 2021 opinion. In a November 2024 letter to the Chinese government, nine UN Special Procedures mandates raised lengthy concerns about patterns of repression against Zhang Zhan, alongside 17 other human rights defenders, requesting the government to take measures to prevent any irreparable damage to life and personal integrity, and halt the violations of her human rights. The government’s three-lines response on Zhang Zhan’s status merely asserted that “her legitimate rights and interests have been fully protected.”

China remains one of the most repressive countries for freedom of speech and press, and ranks 178th out of 180 in the 2025 Reporters without Borders (RSF)’s World Press Freedom Index, and is the world’s leading jailer of journalists and writers, according to data from Committee to Protect Journalists, RSF, and PEN America.

The charge “picking quarrels and provoking trouble” was used against over 100 individuals for peacefully exercising or defending human rights between 2019 and 2024. Chinese authorities often used this crime to justify political persecution of human rights defenders, including journalists. In March 2024, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, also called on the Chinese government to revise the “picking quarrels and provoking trouble” provision and release all HRDs, lawyers, and others detained under that charge.

In detention, Zhang Zhan has engaged in intermittent hunger strikes to protest her arbitrary detention. In 2021 she was twice hospitalised due to severe malnutrition and a rapid deterioration of her health.

In January 2025, Zhang Zhan again re-started her hunger strike in protest of her second arrest. In response, detention centre personnel have subjected her to forced-feeding through a gastric tube – a practice that may amount to torture or other ill-treatment, in violation of the Convention against Torture ratified by China in 1988. Her lawyer has been allowed to meet with her but has been under pressure from the authorities not to disclose the case details publicly.

Despite the relentless calls of the international community to immediately release Zhang Zhan, the Chinese government continues to ignore the urgency of the matter. Yet, the restrictions against journalists or anyone who speaks out against the abuse of the government has tightened drastically, despite the right to freedom of speech and press being guaranteed by Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as by Article 35 of the Chinese Constitution. Zhang’s prosecution is being used as a warning to others who might challenge the government’s propaganda machine. 

Zhang Zhan’s arbitrary detention is a mockery of China’s international human rights obligations to ensure humane prison conditions. Furthermore, Zhang Zhan has committed no internationally recognisable offence, but has been subjected to harsh punishment for reporting on facts and exercising her right to freedom of expression. 

We urge the Chinese government to:

• Immediately and unconditionally release Zhang Zhan and put an end to all acts of harassment towards her;
• Guarantee Zhang Zhan’s safety, psychological well-being and access to adequate and independent medical care;
• Allow her unhindered access to her family members and lawyer of her choosing;
• Submit its state report to the Committee against Torture (CAT), which is over five years overdue, including providing information on the conditions in secret detention and Residential Surveillance at a Designated Location, and providing concrete legislative measures and data about the implementation of previous CAT recommendations concerning these practices;
• Put an end to systemic crackdown on civil society, including harassment, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and arbitrary detention of journalists, writers, and human rights defenders. 

We urge UN bodies and officials, including High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, and governments concerned with human rights in China to:

• Increase support to journalists, writers, and human rights defenders across and from China; 
• Advocate for the releases of arbitrary detained journalists, writers, and human rights defenders, including using high-level meetings to publicly call for the release of specific individuals by name;
• Condition international law enforcement interactions and rule of law cooperation with the Chinese government on the government’s dropping all charges and quashing all convictions against those wrongfully detained for peacefully exercising or advocating human rights, including press freedom and right to information.

London | 12 May 2025 | Tsering Passang

As the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) – Tibet’s government-in-exile – prepares for its 2026 general elections, a renewed wave of political energy is rising across the Tibetan diaspora. Yet this momentum is accompanied by deepening anxiety: Tibet’s voice is fading from global discourse just as international attention fractures and authoritarianism gains ground.

This article highlights two prominent figures central to this pivotal moment. One is the incumbent Sikyong, Penpa Tsering, who remains active in diplomatic efforts across India, North America, and Europe. The other is Dr. Lobsang Sangay, former Sikyong (2011–2021), who continues to engage global audiences on high-profile platforms – most recently at LibertyCon Europe in the Czech Republic. Their contrasting leadership styles are sparking critical debates about the future direction of the Tibetan freedom movement.

At LibertyCon Europe – one of the continent’s largest gatherings of pro-liberty students, youth activists, and human rights defenders – Dr. Lobsang Sangay warned that China’s authoritarianism is no longer just a regional issue but a direct threat to the liberal international order. Reflecting on his decade of leadership, he framed the repression in Tibet, East Turkestan, Southern Mongolia, and mainland China as part of a broader ideological conflict.

His message extended beyond global policymakers. It was a direct appeal to young Tibetans raised in exile – many of whom remain deeply connected to their heritage despite being born far from occupied Tibet. Speaking in Paris, home to one of Europe’s largest Tibetan communities, the former Tibetan leader urged youth to take an active role in civic and political life.

These appeals come amid a worrying decline in Tibet’s global visibility. Since President Trump’s second term, U.S. funding for Tibetan programs has notably decreased. The recent closure of Radio Free Asia’s Tibetan-language service after nearly 30 years, along with growing uncertainty surrounding Voice of America’s Tibetan coverage, underscores a broader crisis: the erosion of free, independent platforms for Tibetan voices.

Meanwhile, Sikyong Penpa Tsering oversees CTA’s four major portfolios – Finance, Religion and Culture, Home, and Health – while continuing to engage with international allies. He has reiterated his intention to abstain from public debates during the upcoming Sikyong election, citing the importance of unity: “As I did during the 2021 elections, I will refrain from participating in the Sikyong election campaign, including public debates, in order to prevent divisions within our community.”

While the sentiment may be sincere, many argue that open debate is the lifeblood of any healthy democracy. Avoiding public scrutiny – particularly during election season – can be just as divisive as political disagreement itself.

This contrast in leadership styles is increasingly shaping the discourse within the Tibetan community. While Penpa Tsering continues his steady diplomatic outreach, including meetings with Tibetan communities in India, North America, and Europe ahead of next year’s election – some view it as a subtle election campaign, Dr. Lobsang Sangay – now a Senior Visiting Fellow at the East Asian Legal Studies Program at Harvard Law School – has adopted a more vocal and strategic stance on international advocacy. He has emphasised the qualities he believes are vital for the next Sikyong – foremost among them, the ability to elevate Tibet’s visibility on the global stage.

“The top qualification [for Sikyong] is the ability to raise the issue of Tibet internationally,” he stated during a Q&A session in Paris this April. “We must be able to access global platforms – and more importantly – be able to deliver. If Tibet disappears from global discourse, we are finished.”

Dr. Sangay also pointed to the troubling absence of Tibet during the U.S. Senate confirmation hearings for President Trump’s Secretary of State nominee – noting that even Senator Marco Rubio, a long-time ally of the Tibetan cause, failed to mention Tibet. This omission, he warned, reflects a deepening diplomatic void.

Yet the current debate over leadership cannot be divorced from an even more pressing concern: the future of the Tibetan cause in a post-Dalai Lama era.

This July, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama will turn 90 – a milestone that calls for both celebration and reflection. In his newly published book, Voice for the Voiceless: Over Seven Decades of Struggle with China for My Land and My People, the Nobel Peace Laureate affirms a crucial truth: while he remains the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people, political leadership now rests entirely with the democratically elected CTA. On the question of his succession, he is unequivocal – any future reincarnation will be determined by the Tibetan people, in accordance with traditional Buddhist practices – not dictated by the Chinese state.

Above all, the Dalai Lama delivers a timeless message of hope and endurance: the Tibetan spirit will outlast Communist China’s oppression. It does not rest on any one figure, but on our shared values – compassion, resilience, and truth.

In doing so, the Tibetan spiritual leader empowers – and challenges – the next generation to safeguard Tibet not merely as a political cause, but as a living civilisation rooted in nonviolence, democracy, and justice.

This is why the 2026 Tibetan general elections are far more than a routine political event. They are a referendum on Tibet’s global strategy – a moment to choose between passive continuity or bold, future-oriented advocacy.

As the CTA’s Election Commission begins forming regional sub-committees, and as Tibetans across India, Europe, Australasia, and North America prepare for this vital democratic exercise, the stakes could not be higher. The world may no longer be watching as closely – but it can still be stirred to care, if we work to reclaim its attention.

In an increasingly crowded and crisis-fatigued world, Tibetans must ask: who will carry our voice when the microphones are switched off?

The answer lies in strong institutions, visionary leadership, and a united people committed to speaking truth to power – even when it feels like no one is listening.

With or without global attention, the Tibetan struggle must endure. But with the right leadership, it may yet reclaim both the attention – and the moral clarity – it so rightly deserves.

Tsering Passang is the founder and chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities. A dedicated human rights advocate and blogger, he champions Tibetan freedom, justice, democracy, and the rights of persecuted communities around the world.

6 May 2025 | Tsering Passang

More than 3,000 demonstrators took to the streets of East London on Saturday, May 3rd, to protest plans for what would become China’s largest diplomatic outpost in Europe. The site in question: the historic Royal Mint Court, just steps away from the Tower of London.

Organised by a broad coalition of Hongkongers, Tibetans, Uyghurs, pro-democracy Chinese, and human rights allies, the protest was a show of growing public resistance to what many see as the expansion of Chinese authoritarianism onto British soil.

Symbol of Intimidation, Not Diplomacy

The Chinese government’s proposal to turn the Royal Mint Court into a massive embassy complex has sparked alarm among diaspora communities and rights campaigners. Critics argue the Mega-Embassy would be far more than a diplomatic centre – rather, a looming symbol of Beijing’s global surveillance reach and political coercion.

“This isn’t just bricks and mortar,” said one protest organiser. “This is about presence. This is about intimidation. It sends a message to those who fled China’s authoritarianism: we are still watching.”

Protesters planned a highly visible march from the Royal Mint, across Tower Bridge, and back, hoping to engage the wider public and draw media attention to their cause. But at 10.25a.m. on the day of the event, the Metropolitan Police abruptly imposed severe restrictions – invoking Sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act – and rerouted the demonstration to a backstreet behind the Royal Mint, drastically limiting its visibility.

Police Crackdown Draws Backlash

Organisers say they were blindsided by the last-minute restrictions, especially after receiving written assurance just the day before from police that no pre-event conditions would be imposed.

“Rather than addressing the situation with appropriate public safety measures, authorities instead chose to heavily restrict the right to rally,” the organising committee said in a post-event statement. “Effectively placing legal pressure on participants to exercise their freedom of expression in a free society.”

The crowd’s frustration only deepened after police arrested a volunteer first aider, citing the possession of medical scissors and deviation from the restricted protest area. Human rights observers and medics have since condemned the arrest as a breach of international humanitarian norms, which protect medical neutrality during public demonstrations.

“This act blatantly violates international humanitarian norms which protect the neutrality of medical personnel during public demonstrations,” the organisers said.

The protest’s rallying cry – “Today, Everything Is Wrong!” – captured the prevailing sense of betrayal among participants, many of whom fled China or Hong Kong in search of democratic freedoms in the UK.

Civil Liberties Under Pressure

The heavy-handed policing has fuelled speculation about political pressure, with many questioning whether the UK government is bending to China’s will to smooth diplomatic relations. Protest leaders say this sets a worrying precedent.

“This is happening in the UK – in a country that supposedly values freedom of expression. If these are the conditions for protests now, what happens when the Mega-Embassy is built?” one activist asked.

Despite the disruptions, protesters remained peaceful and resolute. Banners and placards bearing slogans such as “No Chinese Mega Embassy”, “No to National Security Risks – No to China’s New Mega Embassy”, “No More Silence, No More Fear – CCP is Not Welcome Here!”, “Bow to China, Lose Forever”, and “Say No to China’s Translational Repression” lined the streets around the Royal Mint Court, while community leaders delivered impassioned speeches through megaphones.

“This Is Just the Beginning”

The May 3rd demonstration follows earlier protests on February 8th and March 15th, which also drew significant crowds and featured speeches by UK Members of Parliament critical of the embassy plans.

Organisers have vowed that the resistance will not end here.

“If the plan for the biggest embassy in Europe is ultimately approved, the people of Hong Kong and all communities oppressed by the Chinese Communist Party would refuse to stay silent. Do not compromise! Today is only the beginning of resistance. This place will, for the foreseeable future, remain a battleground.”

As the UK government prepares to make a final decision on the China Mega-Embassy proposal, protesters and human rights advocates are making one thing clear: they will not stand by quietly while authoritarian influence takes root in the heart of London.

———————————————————————–

“Today, Everything Is Wrong!”

In response to the protest held on May 3rd  where 3000 people gathered and marched against the proposal of the China Mega Embassy at the former Royal Mint. The organizers would like to issue a statement regarding the events that unfolded on-site.

The Metropolitan police had previously acknowledged to Members of Parliament that if the number of demonstrators exceeded 500, local traffic and safety would be significantly impacted. However, rather than addressing the situation with appropriate public safety measures, authorities instead chose to heavily restrict the right to rally – effectively placing legal pressure on participants to exercise their freedom of expression in a free society.

On May 2nd, police had confirmed via email that no pre-event conditions would be imposed on the protest, and even claimed to support the public’s right to freedom of assembly and expression as written by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Ironically, at 9 a.m. on May 3rd, police invoked Sections 12 and 14 of the Public Order Act to unilaterally change the approved protest route and restrict the demonstration area under the reason that this march would potentially cause serious disruption to the life of the community.

The original route approved on May 2nd was set to march from Royal Mint via the tower bridge and back, aiming to disseminate the message to the public along the way. But instead, the route restricted by the police was to circulate around the back of the Royal Mint, with little to no interaction with the public at all. Organisers proposed alternative solutions on site – including opening parts of the already designated protest zone on the road – but were flatly rejected. 

Furthermore, police unjustifiably arrested a volunteer first aider during the march, citing the possession of medical scissors and deviation from the designated route as reasons. This act blatantly violates international humanitarian norms which protect the neutrality of medical personnel during public demonstrations.

This series of barbaric acts that is happening in the UK will only lead to the belief that the police are under strong political pressure from China. Nevertheless, MET has once again reaffirmed that this site could not occupy large protests without imposing unreasonable conditions to suppress the freedom of expression. 

Despite these deeply unreasonable treatment, we solemnly declare that: If the plan for the biggest embassy in Europe is ultimately approved, the people of Hong Kong and all communities oppressed by the Chinese Communist Party would refuse to stay silent. Do not compromise! 

Today is only the beginning of resistance. Because this place will, for the foreseeable future, remain a battleground.

Kasur Tashi Wangdi, a distinguished Tibetan diplomat and veteran official of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), passed away at the age of 78 in Canada on 1st May. Over a career that spanned more than five decades, Wangdi played a pivotal role in shaping the diplomatic and political trajectory of the Tibetan exile movement, serving under the guidance of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and holding numerous leadership positions within the CTA.

Born on 15 April 1947, in Sangag Choeling, Tibet, Wangdi’s early life was upended by the Chinese occupation of Tibet. In 1959, he fled into exile in India with his family, joining tens of thousands of other Tibetans who sought refuge following the failed uprising against Communist Chinese rule. He was among the first cohort of Tibetan refugee children selected to study at a newly established school in Mussoorie under the patronage of the Dalai Lama, reflecting his early promise as a student.

Wangdi’s academic journey took him from the foothills of Mussoorie to the United Kingdom. After attending Wynberg Allen School on scholarship, he pursued further education in Britain through a British Council scholarship supported by the refugee organisation Ockenden Venture in 1968. He earned a B.A. (Hons) in Politics and Sociology from Durham University in 1973, a rare achievement among Tibetans in exile at the time.

Returning to India in 1974, Wangdi began his lifelong service to the CTA. His early assignments included roles in the Departments of Home and Education. In 1976, he was appointed Acting Secretary of the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi, and he would go on to serve multiple terms as the Dalai Lama’s Representative to the Indian government, beginning in 1979.

In 1983, Wangdi was elevated to the Kashag (Cabinet) by the Dalai Lama, and over the following two decades, he was entrusted with leadership of several key departments of the CTA, including Information and International Relations, Security, Home, Education, Religion and Culture, and Health. He also headed the Bureau of the Dalai Lama in New Delhi and represented the CTA in diplomatic outreach efforts across the globe.

Among his most significant contributions was his appointment in 1988 as head of the Tibetan negotiating team for discussions with the Government of the People’s Republic of China, following the Dalai Lama’s proposal of the “Middle Way Approach” to resolve the Tibet issue. Wangdi was a consistent and articulate advocate of seeking genuine autonomy for Tibet within the framework of the Chinese Constitution – an approach that emphasised non-violence and dialogue.

After stepping down from the ministerial role in 2002 in accordance with term limits set by the Tibetan Charter, Wangdi continued his diplomatic service as the Dalai Lama’s Representative in New Delhi, then in New York as Representative to the Americas (2005–2008), and later in Brussels as Representative to Western Europe, the Maghreb region, and the European Union institutions from 2009. He resigned in 2011 to contest the election for Kalon Tripa (now known as Sikyong), the democratically elected head of the CTA.

Wangdi’s career was marked by a rare combination of diplomatic skill, policy experience, and loyalty to the vision of a democratic Tibetan polity in exile. He was respected not only for his administrative competence but also for his intellect, composure, and principled approach to leadership.

His memoir, My Life: Born in Free Tibet, Served in Exile, published by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, offers an intimate perspective on Tibet’s post-1959 history through the eyes of someone who was deeply embedded in its unfolding. It documents both the achievements and the challenges of the Tibetan struggle from exile, underscoring the personal sacrifices made by a generation committed to preserving Tibetan identity, culture, and political aspirations.

Tashi Wangdi is survived by his family and a worldwide Tibetan community that continues to benefit from the institutions he helped build and the diplomacy he championed. His life stands as a testament to the resilience of the Tibetan spirit and the possibilities of service rooted in integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment.

We’re hitting the streets again — and this time, we’re marching with louder voices, stronger unity, and a clear message: The Chinese Communist Party’s mega-embassy is NOT welcome in our city! 

Read a joint Op-Ed by Hongkonger and Tibetan activists on why – China’s ‘Super-Embassy’ in London Must Be Stopped: A Threat to Democracy and Human Rights.

The previous protests on February 8 and March 15 sent a warning shot. Now it’s time to escalate.

📅 Saturday, 3rd May 2025
📍 Starting Point: Royal Mint Court, London (Underground: Tower Hill)
🕑 March / Rally Time: 2pm – 5pm
🎯 Target: Stop the CCP’s Mega-Embassy once and for all

The British government may make a final decision this May. This could be our last chance to show them that the people of Britain — and our international allies — reject the CCP’s expanding footprint in London.

🛑 A mega-embassy isn’t just a building — it’s a political symbol of surveillance, intimidation, and human rights abuse on UK soil.
🛑 It’s a threat to Hongkongers, Tibetans, Uyghurs, Taiwanese, Chinese dissidents, and all freedom-loving communities.
🛑 It’s a slap in the face to those who fled tyranny only to have its shadow follow them here.

Let’s not allow this project to go ahead quietly. Let’s march together, shout together, and demand accountability.

Birmingham’s bin workers proved one thing: sustained public pressure works.
Now it’s our turn. We must be seen. We must be heard. We must make it impossible for the authorities to ignore us.

💥 Why You Should Join
✔ You believe in freedom, human rights, and public safety.
✔ You oppose foreign authoritarian influence in democratic countries.
✔ You want your government to prioritize people, not powerful regimes.

📢 Bring your banners, your friends, your energy — and your voice.
Let’s flood the streets. Let’s remind the UK government that this is our city, and we say:

NO MEGA EMBASSY. NO CCP OUTPOST. NOT HERE. NOT EVER.

Follow and share updates using: #NoMegaEmbassy #LondonProtest #StopTheCCP

注意！！！5月3日倫敦鑄幣廠大遊行

日期 Date: 03-05-2025 / 2-5pm

集合點 Location: Royal Mint Court

形式 Format: 遊行& 集會 March & Assembly

好多同路人都話：2月8日同3月15日嘅集會，未夠喉！

齊心恊力，見證歷史! 

誠邀你再臨倫敦，聯合多個城市組織一同齊集鑄幣廠，以遊行形式抗議反對興建中共超級大使館! 

早前傳媒估計政府可能五月作出決定，所以我哋而家更要把握機會向警方施壓，表明現時對附近的風險評估絕不成立，必須重申對倫敦鑄幣廠超級大使館嘅立場。

最近伯明翰垃圾清潔工人嘅行動，證明內部壓力可以帶來改變。如果持續有大量公民參與抗議，將會令警方措手不及、務求令政府否決倫敦鑄幣廠起超級大使館。

警察廳能否再向市議會或副首相保證：「一切都在控制之中」？ 

你嘅參與至關重要!

齊心協力，我哋一齊影響呢個政府嘅決定！

Tsering Passang

On 25th April 1989, a boy named Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was born – a birth that would later carry profound spiritual significance for millions of Tibetans. Recognised in 1995 by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lama – the second-highest figure in Tibetan Buddhism – Gedhun Choekyi Nyima became a beacon of hope for a people striving to preserve their spiritual and cultural identity under occupation. But this hope was soon shattered. Within days of his recognition, the six-year-old child and his family were abducted by Chinese authorities. He has not been seen since.

What should have been a sacred moment in Tibetan religious tradition was turned into one of the most chilling examples of religious persecution and enforced disappearance in modern times. For thirty years, the Tibetan people and followers of Tibetan Buddhism around the world have been denied access to their rightful spiritual leader. The Panchen Lama’s fate is not just a personal tragedy; it epitomises the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) ongoing campaign to co-opt, control, and ultimately erase Tibetan religious identity.

The Disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama

On 14 May 1995, the Dalai Lama recognised Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Lama, following centuries-old spiritual traditions. Merely three days later, the child, his parents, and senior Tibetan Buddhist leader Jadrel Rinpoche, Head of the Search Committee of the Panchen Lama, vanished. China later admitted to detaining them, but has refused all independent access. No credible information has ever been provided about the Tibetan religious figure’s health, location, or circumstances. He remains one of the world’s longest-held political prisoners – and was the youngest at the time of his disappearance.

To legitimise its interference, the Chinese government installed its own candidate, Gyaincain Norbu, as a state-appointed “Panchen Lama” – an act that grossly violated Tibetan religious norms and attempted to rewrite sacred tradition through political fiat.

Why the Panchen Lama Matters

The Panchen Lama is not a symbolic role – he is a central figure in Tibetan Buddhism, responsible for key religious teachings and, historically, for recognising the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama himself. The 10th Panchen Lama was a formidable advocate for Tibetan identity who, in 1962, boldly challenged the CCP’s policies by submitting a 70,000-character petition detailing famine, persecution, destruction of monasteries, and cultural genocide in Tibet. For his courage, he was imprisoned and later placed under house arrest. His death in 1989 remains widely suspected to have been unnatural.

The CCP’s move to hijack the Panchen Lama’s reincarnation is not just political theatre; it is a strategic attempt to manipulate future leadership in Tibetan Buddhism, especially in anticipation of the 15th Dalai Lama’s recognition process.

A Pattern of State-Controlled Religion

This is not an isolated case. The CCP’s effort to manufacture religious authority extends to its 2007 State Religious Affairs Bureau Order No. 5, which arrogantly decrees that all reincarnations of Tibetan lamas must be state-approved – a brazen violation of both international law and China’s own constitution, which supposedly protects religious freedom under Article 36.

From the banning of the Dalai Lama’s image in Tibet to the forced assimilation of Tibetan children in state-run schools, China’s strategy is clear: erase the spiritual and cultural fabric of Tibetan life and replace it with unquestioning loyalty to the Party.

The Broader Campaign of Repression

The abduction of the Panchen Lama fits into a wider campaign of systemic persecution. Uyghur Muslims in East Turkestan (Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region) face internment and cultural genocide. Christians are arrested and churches razed. Falun Gong practitioners are subjected to brutal repression. Mongolian language and culture are being erased. Tibetans face forced relocations, surveillance, and cultural annihilation.

As His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama ages, Beijing is preparing to use its manufactured “Panchen Lama” as a political tool to interfere in the next reincarnation process. This would create a false Dalai Lama – a state-sponsored spiritual puppet – while the legitimate reincarnation, chosen by Tibetans, would be revered by the Tibetan people and Buddhist communities worldwide. 

Geopolitical and Moral Responsibilities

China’s actions have global implications. India, which hosts the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, holds a vital responsibility in safeguarding Tibetan spiritual autonomy. The United States, through its Tibet Policy and Support Act (TPSA), has taken commendable steps to ensure that only Tibetans have the right to determine their spiritual leaders.

The United Nations and democratic nations must now go beyond statements of concern and hold China accountable to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which enshrines freedom of religion and belief.

Faith Cannot Be Fabricated

China can copy and manufacture nearly anything – from consumer goods to copyrighted designs – and has done so with notable success. But attempting to fabricate a spiritual leader through political coercion is not only a gross violation of religious rights, it is an insult to human intelligence and the sacred traditions of an ancient people. Faith cannot be manufactured; it must be lived, practiced, and honoured freely.

Gedhun Choekyi Nyima remains a symbol of what is at stake – the future of Tibetan identity, faith, and freedom. The world must act. Return the Panchen Lama. Restore religious freedom in Tibet.

15 April 2025 | GATPM

The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) unequivocally condemns the politically motivated and deeply shameful deportation of British MP Wera Hobhouse from Hong Kong last week – an alarming act executed under the tightening grip of Beijing’s authoritarian regime.

Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath and a resolute advocate for persecuted communities, was denied entry and deported without explanation. Her personal visit – to meet her newborn grandchild and reunite with her son after more than a year apart – was callously blocked. This was not an issue of immigration policy, but a blatant act of political retribution for her outspoken defence of human rights in Tibet, Hong Kong, and East Turkestan (Xinjiang).

In a social media post, Hobhouse wrote:

“I am the first MP to be refused entry on arrival to Hong Kong since 1997. Authorities gave me no explanation for this cruel and upsetting blow. I hope the Foreign Secretary will recognise that this is an insult to all parliamentarians and seek answers from the Chinese Ambassador.”

Since entering Parliament in 2017, Hobhouse has consistently raised her voice against China’s grave human rights abuses, advocating for Tibetans, Hongkongers, Uyghurs and the people of Taiwan.

GATPM expresses its full solidarity with MP Hobhouse and applauds her unwavering moral courage. Her exclusion is not only a personal injustice – it exemplifies China’s growing use of transnational repression to intimidate, silence, and punish dissenters beyond its borders, including here in the United Kingdom.

In a letter to MP Hobhouse, Tsering Passang, Chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities, wrote:

“We stand with you and commend your courage and principled stand in consistently speaking out against the grave human rights violations committed by the Chinese government – whether in Tibet, East Turkestan (Xinjiang), Hong Kong, or elsewhere. It is clear that your steadfast advocacy for the oppressed and voiceless has come at a personal cost, as this unwarranted action deprived you of the simple right to visit your son and meet your newborn grandchild.”

The London-based Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) also issued a strong statement:

“We unite in support of Wera Hobhouse MP, after the Hong Kong authorities denied her entry, and with it the ability to see her newborn grandson.

Detained and deported without explanation, Hobhouse’s exclusion appears linked to her criticism of Beijing’s human rights record, and possibly her membership of this network.

This incident, the first of its kind since Beijing’s crackdown in Hong Kong, coincides with UK ministers visiting China and Hong Kong to develop trade and investment links. That the Hong Kong authorities felt able to deny entry to a sitting parliamentarian while simultaneously hosting UK Ministers is an insult to Parliament. That they appear to have done so because of an objection to something a UK MP has said in the legitimate exercise of her duties is a challenge to our core values as a nation.

We urge both the UK government and Mr. Speaker to take a very strong stand in addressing this affront to democratic principles and personal freedoms.”

On 14 April, Calum Miller MP, Liberal Democrat Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, added:

“We’ve still had no answers from Beijing about why a British MP, my colleague Wera, was barred from visiting her newborn grandson in Hong Kong. China wants to take advantage of the UK’s openness while refusing entry to British MPs and placing bounties on the heads of democracy campaigners living in the UK. Ministers must confirm they’re blocking China’s threatening super-embassy at the heart of London once and for all.”

Meanwhile, British Tibetans and other diaspora communities report ongoing harassment and surveillance by operatives affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party’s United Front Work Department (UFWD), often operating under diplomatic cover from the Chinese Embassy in London. Peaceful activists have been threatened with reprisals against family members in occupied Tibet – constituting a gross violation of UK civil liberties and national sovereignty.

Repression in Hong Kong has escalated dramatically since the imposition of the draconian National Security Law in 2020. Journalists have been jailed, opposition voices silenced, and now even democratically elected foreign lawmakers are being barred. This is not about “national security” – it is about silencing dissent and avoiding scrutiny.

In a 2023 address to the Tibetan community in London, Wera Hobhouse MP stated:

“Ever since the Chinese Communist led by Chairman Mao occupied Tibet in the 1950s, the Tibetans have faced incredible hardships. Inside Tibet, it is estimated that roughly 1 million Tibetans died as a result of initial invasion and subsequent destructive policies including the cultural revolution. Tibet’s cultural and religious heritage was also devastated at the time. Even after Mao’s period ended, the Tibetans have suffered intense persecution. The ongoing human rights violations in Tibet are a stain on the whole world.

I speak to you today as an MP and a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Tibet. I want to tell you that we see your ongoing struggles. We have not forgotten the issue of Tibet’s history as an independent nation and we will not forget. We will continue to speak out in support of the human rights of the Tibetan people and for a just solution to the Tibetan political question guided most notably by the ‘Middle-Way’ approach advocated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”

Wera Hobhouse’s exclusion is a direct affront to democratic principles and must not go unanswered. The UK must act – not only in defence of one MP’s rights but in defence of the freedoms and values we hold dear.

In Solidarity,
Tsering Passang
Founder and Chair
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM)

Tulku Hungkar Dorje’s Arrest and Death Raise Alarming Questions of Chinese Secret Agent Involvement on Vietnamese Soil

13 April 2025, London / GATPM: The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) has issued an urgent appeal to the Vietnamese Prime Minister, calling for an immediate investigation into the arrest and sudden death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje, a revered Tibetan religious leader and humanitarian, under suspicious circumstances involving Vietnamese police and Chinese secret agents.

Tulku Hungkar Dorje, known for his educational, healthcare and social work – including the founding of schools, medical clinics, and libraries to serve Tibetan communities in China’s occupied-Tibet was detained in Ho Chi Minh City on 25 March 2025. Reports allege that this arrest was carried out through a joint operation by Vietnamese authorities and Chinese operatives. Just three days later, he was transferred into Chinese custody and died on 28 March, with the cause of death still unclarified.

His body remains under Chinese influence at Vinmec Central Park International Hospital, where access has been denied to Tibetan religious representatives. Although five monks from Lungnon Monastery were briefly permitted to identify his body at a Vietnamese military hospital on 11 April, the issuance of a death certificate under restricted and opaque conditions continues to fuel suspicions.

“This deeply disturbing case raises urgent concerns about Vietnam’s potential complicity in China’s growing campaign of transnational repression,” said Tsering Passang, founder and chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities. “Vietnam has long been respected for its defence of sovereignty – yet this incident suggests a troubling willingness to aid foreign political persecution.”

The GATPM asserts that these actions violate Vietnam’s obligations under international human rights law, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which prohibits arbitrary detention and guarantees due process.

GATPM calls on the Government of Vietnam to:

• Disclose the legal basis for Tulku Hungkar Dorje’s arrest and cross-border transfer
• Launch an independent and internationally monitored investigation into his detention and death
• Reject foreign-led political persecution on Vietnamese territory and uphold its sovereignty
• Release his body to Lungnon Monastery to allow proper religious rites and funeral procedures
• Ensure protection and non-refoulement for Tibetan refugees and others at risk

“This is not just the loss of a spiritual leader – it is a dangerous precedent for borderless persecution of dissent and faith,” the GATPM spokesperson warned. “We urge the Vietnamese government to act with transparency and integrity and stand on the right side of human rights.”

—————————————————-

Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities’ Letter to Vietnamese Prime Minister – 13 April 2025

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính
Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Office of the Government
16 Le Hong Phong Street
Ba Dinh District
Hanoi, Vietnam

Subject: Urgent Appeal for Transparency and Opposition to Transnational Repression in the Case of Tibetan Religious Leader Tulku Hungkar Dorje

Dear Prime Minister,

On behalf of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM), I write to express our deep concern regarding the arrest and tragic death of the esteemed Tibetan religious leader, Tulku Hungkar Dorje, in Vietnam. Based on information available to us, his detention on 25 March 2025, and his subsequent unexplained death in Chinese custody on 28 March, raise serious and troubling questions regarding Vietnam’s possible role in enabling transnational repression by the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

The Case of Tulku Hungkar Dorje

Tulku Hungkar Dorje was a highly respected Tibetan spiritual figure and social reformer, widely known for his extensive philanthropic work. His contributions included founding vocational schools, medical clinics, and libraries to serve marginalised Tibetan communities under Chinese occupation. These peaceful and humanitarian efforts earned him reverence both within Tibet and internationally.

Despite his non-political stance, he was increasingly targeted by Chinese authorities due to his religious leadership and his refusal to conform to Beijing’s political directives. Following interrogation by officials from Qinghai Province in August 2024, he fled to Vietnam in September 2024 to seek refuge from mounting Chinese pressure.

However, on 25 March 2025, he was reportedly apprehended from his hotel room in Saigon in a coordinated operation involving both Vietnamese police and Chinese secret agents. Merely three days later, on 28 March, he was handed over to Chinese custody and died under mysterious circumstances that same day. His body is reportedly held at Vinmec Central Park International Hospital under Chinese influence, and Tibetan religious representatives have been denied access. The issuance of a death certificate, while simultaneously restricting his monastery from retaining or documenting it, has further fuelled suspicions surrounding the circumstances of his death.

On 11 April, five monks from Lungnon Monastery were shown the body of Tulku Hungkar Dorje at a military hospital in Vietnam. They were briefly allowed to view his face and were able to identify their spiritual teacher.

Vietnam’s Responsibility and the Dangers of Complicity

Vietnam has a proud history of resisting foreign interference and safeguarding its sovereignty. Yet this case suggests a disturbing instance of collusion with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in its growing campaign of transnational repression. The extrajudicial detention and handover of a Tibetan religious leader on Vietnamese soil raise profound legal and ethical concerns. If Vietnam permits such violations of due process and fundamental rights, it risks eroding both its own judicial independence and international reputation.

Vietnam is a signatory to several key international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which prohibits arbitrary detention and guarantees the right to life and due process. Any complicity in the unlawful rendition and subsequent death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje would constitute a grave breach of these obligations.

A Call for Urgent Action

In light of these grave concerns, we respectfully urge the Government of Vietnam to:

1. Provide Full Transparency Regarding the Arrest and Transfer
   Publicly disclose the legal grounds for Tulku Hungkar Dorje’s arrest and clarify whether any formal agreement with the PRC existed in relation to his handover.
   
2. Conduct an Independent and Impartial Investigation
   Initiate a transparent and internationally monitored inquiry into the circumstances of his detention, transfer, and untimely death.
   
3. Uphold Vietnamese Sovereignty by Opposing Transnational Repression
   Ensure that Vietnamese law enforcement and intelligence agencies do not assist foreign powers in acts of political persecution or human rights violations.
   
4. Release His Remains for Proper Religious Rites
   Facilitate the immediate handover of Tulku Hungkar Dorje’s body to Lungnon Monastery so that appropriate Tibetan Buddhist funeral rites may be conducted.
   
5. Protect Tibetan Refugees and Other At-Risk Communities
   Reaffirm Vietnam’s commitment to international law by guaranteeing safety and non-refoulement for Tibetan and other persecuted individuals seeking refuge in the country.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s identity as an independent and sovereign nation is deeply respected. However, any involvement – whether active or passive – in the PRC’s efforts to extend its repression beyond its borders undermines that legacy and sets a worrying precedent for foreign influence within Vietnam’s domestic affairs.

We urge your government to demonstrate its commitment to justice, human rights, and transparency by acting swiftly and decisively in this matter. We are prepared to engage in constructive dialogue and to share further evidence and documentation to support efforts to uncover the truth in this deeply distressing case.

We await your considered response and hope for a clear commitment to uphold the rule of law and the protection of fundamental freedoms within Vietnam’s jurisdiction.

Yours sincerely,

Tsering Passang
Founder & Chair
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities

9th April 2025 / GATPM

China and Vietnam Must Answer for Their Roles in the Death of a Revered Tibetan Religious Leader

The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) strongly condemns the suspicious death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje, a prominent Tibetan religious leader, while in the custody of Chinese authorities in Vietnam. His sudden demise on 28 March 2025 raises grave concerns about the growing pattern of transnational repression, the blatant violation of human rights, and the unchecked power of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in targeting Tibetan leaders beyond Tibet’s borders. We call for an immediate and independent investigation into the circumstances of his detention and death, and demand accountability from both the Chinese and Vietnamese governments.

Background: The Persecution of Tulku Hungkar Dorje

Tulku Hungkar Dorje, born in 1969 in Tibet’s Amdo province, was a highly respected spiritual leader and social reformer dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan identity through education, healthcare, and cultural initiatives. His work in founding the Hungkar Dorje Vocational Technical High School, Hungkar Compassion Medical Clinic, and the Excellent Discourse Key Library directly benefited thousands of Tibetans, particularly marginalised groups.

Despite his contributions to Tibetan society, he was subjected to repeated harassment by Chinese authorities. In August 2024, he was interrogated by Qinghai provincial officials for allegedly composing long-life prayers for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and failing to implement Chinese government policies in his educational work. His refusal to fully comply with China’s directives – including resisting pressure to host the Chinese-appointed Panchen Lama, Gyaltsen Norbu – led to increasing persecution. Fearing for his safety, he went into hiding in Vietnam in late September 2024.

Arrest, Detention, and Mysterious Death

On 25 March 2025, Tulku Hungkar Dorje was arrested from his hotel room in Saigon, Vietnam, in a joint operation between Vietnamese police and Chinese secret agents. He was transferred to a local public security office on 28 March, where he mysteriously died that same day. The refusal of authorities to release details surrounding his death strongly suggests foul play.

Chinese officials later presented a death certificate to Lungnon Monastery in Tibet on 1 April 2025 but forbade those present from keeping or photographing the document. Five monks from the monastery were sent to Vietnam on 5 April to retrieve his body, yet they were reportedly excluded from a critical meeting at the Chinese Embassy in Vietnam. As of today, it remains unclear whether they were allowed to see the body, let alone return it for proper Buddhist rites. The body is reportedly being held at Vinmec Central Park International Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, raising further suspicions about the handling of the case.

A Clear Case of Transnational Repression

The abduction and death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje exemplify China’s growing pattern of extraterritorial repression, where Beijing’s influence extends beyond Tibet’s borders to silence Tibetan leaders abroad. This case also calls into question Vietnam’s complicity in aiding Chinese authorities in the unlawful capture of a persecuted Tibetan religious figure on foreign soil.

The GATPM strongly condemns Vietnam’s participation in this transnational human rights violation and calls for transparency in its cooperation with the CCP. The Vietnamese government must answer for its role in the illegal arrest and subsequent death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje.

A Pattern of Targeting Tibetan Religious Leaders

The persecution and suspicious death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje are not isolated incidents but part of China’s systematic crackdown on influential Tibetan religious and cultural figures. Similar cases of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, and unexplained deaths of Tibetan monks and scholars have been well-documented:

• Tenzin Delek Rinpoche (2015) – A revered Tibetan monk who died under mysterious circumstances while serving a life sentence in a Chinese prison.
• Khenpo Kartse – Arbitrarily detained and sentenced despite his humanitarian work.
• Gedhun Choekyi Nyima – The 11th Panchen Lama recognised by the Dalai Lama in 1995, forcibly disappeared by Chinese authorities at age six and missing for nearly three decades.

These cases highlight the Chinese government’s relentless strategy to eliminate Tibetan voices advocating for cultural and religious freedom.

Calls for Action

The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities demands the following:

1. An Independent International Investigation – The United Nations and human rights bodies must launch a transparent inquiry into the arrest, detention, and death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje.
2. Immediate Release of His Body – The Vietnamese and Chinese governments must allow his body to be returned to Lungnon Monastery for proper Buddhist rites.
3. Vietnam’s Accountability – The Vietnamese government must explain its role in facilitating this unlawful arrest and clarify whether it acted under direct Chinese orders.
4. Sanctions on Chinese and Vietnamese Officials – Governments around the world must impose sanctions on individuals responsible for the detention and death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje.
5. Global Condemnation of Transnational Repression – The international community must pressure China to end its persecution of Tibetan religious and cultural figures, both inside Tibet and abroad.

Conclusion

The suspicious death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje is a stark reminder of the grave dangers faced by Tibetan leaders at the hands of Chinese authorities. It underscores the growing threat of transnational repression, where China’s influence extends beyond its borders to silence Tibetans worldwide. The international community cannot remain silent. We call upon governments, human rights organisations, and global leaders to demand answers, hold China and Vietnam accountable, and ensure that Tibetan religious figures are not targeted for upholding their identity and beliefs.

We stand in solidarity with the Tibetan people and vow to pursue justice for Tulku Hungkar Dorje.

Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities
9th April 2025

31 March 2025

In a powerful display of solidarity, 46 Indian Members of Parliament (MPs) have signed a Joint Declaration reaffirming their unwavering support for the religious and cultural rights of the Tibetan people. The declaration underscores Tibetans’ fundamental right to determine the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama without external interference. This landmark initiative follows an intensive advocacy effort led by the Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India, according to a press release issued by the alliance earlier today.

The declaration asserts: “We come together to send a resounding message to China: we stand with the Tibetan people in support of their right to religious and cultural freedoms.”

The Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India, a coalition of leading Tibetan NGOs, worked closely with MPs throughout an advocacy week in New Delhi, stressing the urgent need to safeguard Tibetan religious traditions and cultural heritage. The initiative highlights the deep respect and admiration for His Holiness the Dalai Lama across India’s political and public spheres.

Several MPs publicly voiced their strong support for Tibet’s religious autonomy:

Raju Bista, MP (West Bengal): “His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s contributions to religious harmony and global peace extend beyond the Buddhist community. The authority to determine the next Dalai Lama rests solely with His Holiness and those he designates. My fellow MPs and I stand firmly with Tibetans in their pursuit of religious and cultural freedoms.”

Dr. Sasmit Patra, MP (Odisha): “The reincarnation system in Tibetan Buddhism is rooted in the continuity of the Dalai Lama’s noble legacy. The sole authority on succession matters lies with His Holiness and the Tibetan people—no external forces should interfere.”

Sujeet Kumar, MP (Odisha): “China’s attempt to control the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation is deeply ironic—an atheist regime dictating religious traditions. This is a direct assault on Tibetan culture and identity.”

Dr. Lobsang Yangtso, Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India: “The strong support from Indian MPs sends a clear message of solidarity to the Tibetan people. Their commitment to His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s spiritual leadership strengthens our ongoing efforts.”

This declaration represents a crucial step in countering China’s attempts to manipulate Tibetan religious and cultural institutions. The Tibet Advocacy Alliance-India remains committed to ensuring that Tibetan religious rights are upheld at the highest levels of governance. Member groups within the alliance include the Tibetan Youth Congress, Tibetan Women’s Association, National Democratic Party of Tibet, Students for a Free Tibet-India, and the International Tibet Network.

India has long served as a sanctuary for Tibet’s exiled community. The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), Tibet’s government-in-exile, is headquartered in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama first set foot on Indian soil exactly 66 years ago, on 31 March 1959, after fleeing Tibet. Around 80,000 Tibetans followed their spiritual leader into exile, with many remaining in India to this day. The Tibetan diaspora has since expanded, with over 150,000 Tibetans now settled in approximately 20 countries across five continents.

India has played a pivotal role in supporting the aspirations of the Tibetan people under the leadership of the Dalai Lama. The Joint Declaration by Indian MPs is yet another reaffirmation of this enduring commitment to Tibet’s cultural and religious heritage.

Useful Links

The Office of Holiness the Dalai Lama

Central Tibetan Administration

Tibetan Youth Congress

Tibetan Women’s Association

National Democratic Party of Tibet

Students for a Free Tibet-India

International Tibet Network

Press Release:

Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities Urges Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Reinstate Critical US Support for Tibet

London | 26 March 2025 | GATPM – The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) has issued an urgent appeal to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling for the reinstatement of US funding for the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and the preservation of critical federal grants to Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia (RFA), including their Tibetan-language services.

In a letter addressed to Secretary Rubio, GATPM Founder and Chair Tsering Passang expressed deep concern over the recent announcement to discontinue these vital funding streams. He warned that such cuts would severely weaken Tibetan resistance to Beijing’s oppression and embolden the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) efforts to erase Tibet’s cultural and linguistic identity.

“As the son of a veteran of the Tibetan resistance movement in Mustang, I make this urgent appeal with deep conviction,” wrote Passang. “While my father spent a decade in the rugged Himalayan mountains fighting for Tibet’s freedom, my battlefield is different. From London, I work to counter China’s disinformation campaigns and advocate against the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) brutal oppression.”

The letter (see below) highlights the CCP’s ongoing atrocities in Tibet, including mass surveillance, suppression of religious freedoms, and the forced assimilation of nearly a million Tibetan children into state-run boarding schools. It underscores that US-funded Tibetan-language services of RFA and VOA remain a critical lifeline for Tibetans living under Beijing’s repressive regime, providing access to uncensored news, democratic discourse, and cultural preservation efforts.

A Crucial Bridge Between Tibetans Inside and Outside Tibet

Passang emphasised that RFA and VOA’s Tibetan-language services serve as a crucial bridge between Tibetans inside Tibet and those in exile. In a region where independent journalism is systematically suppressed, these broadcasts provide one of the only means for Tibetans inside Tibet to connect with the outside world. They expose the CCP’s human rights violations, environmental destruction, and military expansionism while offering exiled Tibetans an avenue to maintain ties with their homeland. Tibetan-speaking populations across the Himalayan belt and beyond also benefit from these vital services.

“Eliminating funding for these essential services would weaken US efforts to counter Beijing’s growing influence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific,” Passang warned. “Preserving RFA and VOA’s Tibetan services is not just a strategic necessity – it is a moral imperative.”

The appeal also emphasises Tibet’s historical ties with the United States, referencing the Mustang resistance fighters who once aligned with US strategic interests in the 1960s and 1970s. Passang argues that withdrawing such crucial support now would betray America’s long-standing commitment to human rights and democracy, further strengthening China’s authoritarian grip.

He urged Secretary Rubio and the Trump administration to uphold the principles enshrined in the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act (2018) and the Tibetan Policy and Support Act (2020) – legislative measures signed into law during President Trump’s first term that reaffirmed America’s commitment to Tibet.

“At this critical juncture, the world looks to the United States to uphold fundamental freedoms and resist authoritarian oppression,” said Passang. “The Tibetan people have always been genuine admirers and time-tested allies of America. Our younger generations must be empowered to carry forward their parents’ legacy of resisting CCP oppression and defending freedom, justice, and global peace.”

The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities urges the US government to reverse its decision and continue standing firmly with the Tibetan people in their struggle for freedom.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Tsering Passang | info@gatpm.com
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities
http://www.Tsamtruk.com/gatpm

GATPM Chair Tsering Passang’s Letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio:

25th March 2025

Urgent Appeal: Safeguard Support for Tibet and Critical US-Funded Media Services

Your Excellency Secretary of State Marco Rubio,

May I first extend my sincere congratulations on your appointment as Secretary of State in President Trump’s administration. Tibetans worldwide deeply appreciate your unwavering support for our just cause and your steadfast commitment to human rights and democracy. I was encouraged by your recent letter to our Sikyong reaffirming that US policy on Tibet remains unchanged and your continued backing of Tibet and its people.

However, I write with profound concern regarding the recent decision to discontinue financial aid to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and withdraw US federal grants to Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Asia (RFA), including their Tibetan-language services.

As the son of a veteran of the Tibetan resistance movement in Mustang – a movement that directly aligned with US strategic interests in the 1960s and 1970s – I make this urgent appeal with deep conviction. While my father spent a decade in the rugged Himalayan mountains fighting for Tibet’s freedom, my battlefield is different. From London, I work to counter China’s disinformation campaigns and advocate against the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) brutal oppression and its atrocities.

Since the illegal occupation of Tibet in 1950, Beijing’s systematic policies have led to the deaths of an estimated 1.2 million Tibetans and the near-eradication of our cultural and religious identity. Today, China continues its assault on Tibetan heritage through mass surveillance, suppression of religious freedoms, and the forced assimilation of nearly a million Tibetan children into state-run boarding schools designed to erase their identity. The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) in their 1959 and 1960 reports recorded Communist China’s crimes against the Tibetan people and our culture, which amounts to genocide as per the Genocide Convention of 1948.

The abrupt defunding of Tibetan services on RFA and VOA would be a devastating setback for freedom and justice. These platforms serve as a crucial bridge between Tibetans inside Tibet and those in exile, providing a rare source of uncensored news, democratic discourse, and cultural preservation. Inside Tibet, where independent journalism is systematically suppressed, these broadcasts are lifelines for millions. They expose the CCP’s human rights violations, environmental destruction, and military expansionism while offering Tibetans hope and connection to the outside world. Tibetan-speaking populations across the Himalayan belt and beyond also benefit from these vital RFA and VOA Tibetan services.

Eliminating funding for these essential services would weaken US efforts to counter Beijing’s growing influence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. Preserving RFA and VOA’s Tibetan services is not just a strategic necessity – it is a moral imperative. These broadcasts are vital in preserving the Tibetan language and culture, which Beijing seeks to erase.

For decades, VOA and RFA have provided a voice to Tibetans who risk everything to stay informed. Weakening these services would embolden Beijing’s propaganda machine and further silence a marginalised people fighting for their survival.

My father and his fellow freedom fighters made significant sacrifices for regional stability, aligning with America’s core values of democracy and human rights. However, US-China relations shifted under President Nixon, prioritising economic engagement over the democratic ideals America has long championed. Today, China openly challenges international norms, making it more crucial than ever for the US to stand with the Tibetan people and their allies. Supporting the Tibetan diaspora remains essential in countering CCP expansionism and upholding American strategic interests.

Having been born and raised in refugee camps in Nepal, I have firsthand experience of the profound impact of these critical services on Tibetan communities. For many refugees, VOA and RFA broadcasts remain their sole independent source of information. The Mustang resistance, in which my father and his comrades courageously participated, was not only a fight for Tibet’s freedom but also a contribution to regional stability — a goal that remains aligned with America’s global mission.

I acknowledge and deeply appreciate your long-standing commitment to Tibet and your leadership in countering CCP influence. During his first term, President Trump made significant strides by signing the Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act (2018) and the Tibetan Policy and Support Act (2020), reinforcing America’s commitment to Tibet. These measures sent a clear message to Beijing that the United States stands firmly with the Tibetan people. We now hope that President Trump’s administration will uphold and strengthen this support.

At this critical juncture, the world looks to the United States to uphold fundamental freedoms and resist authoritarian oppression. Your Excellency, as a seasoned statesman and champion of democracy, I urge you to use your influence to reinstate and enhance funding for the Central Tibetan Administration and maintain vital federal grants for RFA and VOA’s Tibetan services. The Tibetan people have always been genuine admirers and time-tested allies of America. Our younger generations must be empowered to carry forward their parents’ legacy of resisting CCP oppression and defending freedom, justice, and global peace.

Withdrawing such crucial support would only serve Beijing’s interests, strengthening an oppressive regime that seeks to undermine the rules-based international order.

I respectfully urge you to champion this cause and reinforce America’s unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and press freedom.

Thank you for your time and consideration of this urgent appeal.

Yours sincerely,

(Signed)

Tsering Passang
Founder & Chair
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities

London | 16 March 2025 | GATPM

An Urgent Appeal by Tsering Passang, Founder & Chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities:

I write with deep concern regarding alarming reports of potential funding cuts that could severely impact vital US-funded broadcasters such as Radio Free Asia (RFA) and Voice of America (VOA). These media outlets have long been critical sources of uncensored news for communities oppressed by authoritarian regimes, including Tibetans inside Chinese-occupied Tibet.

RFA’s Tibetan language service has played an indispensable role in delivering truthful reporting from within Tibet — a region where Beijing’s repressive control has stifled independent journalism. RFA’s ability to connect with Tibetans in real-time, despite China’s extensive censorship, has been vital in exposing human rights abuses, religious persecution, and environmental destruction in Tibet.

At a time when the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is aggressively escalating its disinformation campaigns worldwide, shutting down or weakening RFA would be a strategic misstep with far-reaching consequences. The United States has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to countering Beijing’s malign influence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Ensuring the continuity of RFA’s operations is directly aligned with this objective.

Moreover, the continuation of RFA and VOA’s Tibetan language services is not only a geopolitical necessity — it is also a moral imperative. These broadcasts provide a rare and vital platform for Tibetan language preservation, helping sustain a culture that the CCP has relentlessly sought to erase through colonial-style boarding schools and other assimilation tactics.

I strongly urge US authorities, particularly Congress and the Trump administration, to reconsider any funding cuts that threaten the essential work of RFA and VOA. Weakening these platforms would embolden Communist China’s propaganda machine, silence marginalised voices, and undermine the United States’ strategic interests in promoting democracy and free speech worldwide.

Now more than ever, the world must stand firm in defence of press freedom and amplify the voices of those striving to expose the truth. The continuation of RFA’s Tibetan language service is crucial to this cause.

We at the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities urge President Trump and the US Congress to uphold America’s proud tradition of supporting freedom of speech and protecting oppressed communities — and to ensure RFA’s Tibetan language service continues its invaluable work at this critical time.

Tsering Passang
Founder & Chair
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities

13th March 2025 | GATPM

“Confront the stark realities that challenge the very essence of Tibetan identity,” said Luke de Pulford, Co-founder and Executive Director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC), addressing a powerful gathering in Whitehall on 10th March 2025.

The rally, held directly opposite Downing Street, drew several hundred British Tibetans, supporters, and human rights defenders to mark the 66th anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day. This commemoration remembers the tragic events of March 10th 1959, when Tibetans rose against the invading People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of Communist China. The rally was jointly organised by the Tibetan Community in Britain, Free Tibet, and the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM).

In his speech, Luke de Pulford urged attendees to confront the harsh realities threatening Tibetan identity. He condemned Beijing’s systematic efforts to erase Tibetan language, culture, and religious practices — including the coercive assimilation of Tibetan children in colonial-style boarding schools.

“Despite its rich cultural legacy, Tibet has endured severe human rights violations,” de Pulford said. “The United Nations General Assembly has passed resolutions expressing grave concerns about the violation of the Tibetan people’s fundamental human rights and freedoms. As early as 1959, the UN highlighted the suppression of Tibet’s distinctive cultural and religious life.

“More recently, reports indicate that around one million Tibetan children are compelled to attend state-run boarding schools, separated from their families and taught primarily in Mandarin Chinese. This, as we all know, is a large-scale programme aimed at assimilating Tibetans into the majority Han culture, contravening international human rights standards.”

De Pulford emphasised that the campaign for Tibet is not only about self-determination but also about defending universal human rights. He asserted that the UK has a moral duty to ensure Tibet’s plight is neither forgotten nor ignored.

As the Executive Director of IPAC, Luke de Pulford has consistently championed democracy and human rights in the face of China’s expanding influence. IPAC unites lawmakers worldwide to defend freedom and counter Beijing’s threats to the rules-based international order.

Full Transcript of Luke de Pulford’s Address on 10th March 2025:

“Dear friends and esteemed guests, 

As we gather to commemorate Tibet National Day, we rightly honour a land of profound spirituality and cultural richness. Yet, we must also confront the stark realities that challenge the very essence of Tibetan identity. 

Tibet has been a beacon of unique cultural and spiritual traditions for centuries. Dr. Lobsang Sangay, former Sikyong (President) of the Central Tibetan Administration, once said “The issue of Tibet is not just about six million Tibetans; it’s about justice, human rights, and freedom that we all cherish.” 

That we ALL cherish. We have heard words like these spoken often. So often that their significance may pass us by. Living in the UK, few of us have to confront the loss of those cherished rights. As a result, many have forgotten their value. 

But the former Sikyong’s sentiment touches upon something crucial to those of us who believe in human solidarity. The quest to preserve Tibetan heritage is not just a matter for the people of Tibet, indeed, it is not a matter for the people of China or any other single body of peoples. It is an imperative for us all. 

And that imperative is urgent. 

Despite its rich cultural legacy, Tibet has endured severe human rights violations. The United Nations General Assembly has passed resolutions expressing grave concerns about the violation of the Tibetan people’s fundamental human rights and freedoms. As early as 1959, the UN has highlighted the suppression of the distinctive cultural and religious life of the Tibetan people. 

More recently, reports indicate that around one million Tibetan children are compelled to attend state-run boarding schools, separated from their families and taught primarily in Mandarin Chinese. This, as we all know, is a large-scale programme aimed at assimilating Tibetans into the majority Han culture, contravening international human rights standards. 

The issues don’t stop with egregious human rights abuses. Even the land bears the scars of oppression. 

China’s plans to construct a massive hydroelectric dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River threatens to disrupt the river’s natural flow, impacting agriculture and access to drinking water downstream.

It’s so serious that it could impact India and Bangladesh, which have both raised concerns. A recent earthquake in Tibet highlighted the seismic risks associated with such large-scale infrastructure projects. The 6.8 magnitude quake resulted in significant casualties and damage to reservoirs, underscoring the potential dangers of constructing dams in this seismically active region.

So, why don’t we hear more about this? Why isn’t it front-page news? 

It is true that the international community has increasingly voiced concerns over the situation in Tibet. In October 2024, Australia, the United States, and 13 other countries criticised China at the United Nations for alleged human rights abuses in regions including Tibet, urging China to uphold its international human rights obligations. This is one of many recent statements, including those made by members of IPAC globally. It’s also encouraging to see pro-Tibet protests in Taiwan today, for the first time ever. 

But it’s not enough. For too long, Tibet has languished in the “too difficult” pile, hampered by its perception internationally as a conflict over territory. Beijing is very successful with this strategy. Have you ever noticed a pattern? Every time Beijing persecutes a minority, they justify it with reference to sovereignty and territory? Beijing’s leaders have worked hard on the Tibet issue, to muddy the waters, making it a “complicated territorial dispute” in the minds of foreign onlookers. 

Friends, my experience is this: when an issue becomes a dispute about Chinese territory, we lose. Think of Hong Kong. Think of East Turkestan. Think of Inner Mongolia. 

This is not because people don’t care about sovereignty questions. It’s because the barriers to entry are too high. In order to debate an issue where sovereignty is disputed, some knowledge of the history of the region is required. Think of the Falkland Islands. In order to take a reasoned position, it’s essential to know about their history of ownership and development, even when disputed by both sides. Friends, not everyone in Parliament knows about the history of the Falkland Islands, and this is a UK overseas territory. If they don’t know about a UK territory, how many do you think know the history of Tibet? Beijing understands this, which is why they seek to cloak their persecution in sovereignty related issues. 

Let’s be clear: separating children from their families has nothing to do with sovereignty. Destroying natural habitats and places of cultural importance has nothing to do with sovereignty. Mass forced labour has nothing to do with sovereignty. 

Now, while some of the issues are unavoidably about sovereignty, it’s important to emphasise that the campaign for Tibet isn’t solely a campaign for self-determination. It’s a campaign against violations of UNIVERSAL rights. 

Our politicians, at all levels, have no excuse for failing to decry these heinous abuses, and friends, it is up to us to hold their feet to the fire to ensure that they do. 

So, as we observe Tibet National Day, it is imperative to reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Tibetan people’s struggle for human rights, environmental preservation, and cultural integrity. This involves: 

Awareness: Educating the global community about the environmental and cultural threats facing Tibet. I can’t emphasise this enough. In a political environment where MPs aren’t picking this up for fear of making a mistake, we need to be teaching them all about Tibet, patiently, methodically, with objectivity and persistence.

Advocacy: Urging governments and international bodies to hold China accountable for human rights violations in Tibet. This means deploying sharp-edged parliamentary tools to force a government response. It also means speaking to your MPs. You all have that right. If you haven’t done it, why not? Now is the time, and it really makes a difference. 

Solidarity: Standing with Tibetan communities in their peaceful efforts to preserve their heritage and identity. 

As the Dalai Lama once said: “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping next to a mosquito.” So, in the spirit of resilience and determination, let us honour our collective responsibility by advocating for a Tibet where human rights are respected, cultures are preserved, and the environment is protected. 

Thank you.”

12th March 2025 / TheAsiaLive

The Royal Borough of Greenwich reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Tibetan people on March 10, 2025, as Deputy Mayor Cllr. Linda Bird led the annual Tibetan national flag-raising ceremony at Woolwich Town Hall. This solemn yet powerful event, which takes place every year, highlights the borough’s solidarity with Tibet’s ongoing struggle for freedom, justice, and human rights.

The ceremony also served as a tribute to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s revered spiritual leader and Nobel Peace Laureate, who will celebrate his 90th birthday this July. In recognition of his lifelong dedication to non-violence, compassion, and the pursuit of justice, participants in the event paid homage to his contributions toward global peace and Tibetan self-determination.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is home to the largest Tibetan community in any single borough across the United Kingdom, with over 200 Tibetans residing in the area. Each year, the Tibet flag-raising ceremony marks Tibetan National Uprising Day, commemorating the historic uprising of March 10, 1959, when thousands of Tibetans in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, stood against Chinese occupation. The brutal crackdown that followed forced His Holiness the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetans to flee into exile, leading to the establishment of a Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamsala, India.

The Deputy Mayor and the Deputy leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich reiterated their continued support and solidarity with the people of Tibet and the Dalai Lama for steadfast non-violent struggle for freedom and justice.

This year’s event carried particular significance, as 2025 marks the 66th anniversary of Tibetan National Uprising Day. The occasion saw Tibetans, local residents, activists, and dignitaries gather at Woolwich Town Hall in a solemn show of unity, standing together in support of Tibet’s peaceful struggle.

Deputy Mayor Cllr. Linda Bird, who raised the Tibetan national flag outside the Town Hall, emphasized Greenwich’s enduring commitment to human rights and justice.

Tsering Passang, Coordinator of the Tibet Flag Raising event and Chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities, expressed deep gratitude for the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s steadfast support.

“We deeply appreciate the unwavering support of the Royal Borough of Greenwich and its leaders in standing with Tibet,” he stated. “This annual Tibet flag-raising ceremony not only honours those who made sacrifices for Tibet’s freedom but also strengthens our collective resolve to advocate for justice, human rights, democracy, and equality.”

Members of the Greenwich Tibetan Association (GTA) were also present, many wearing traditional Tibetan attire, further showcasing the community’s cultural heritage and pride. The association extended its heartfelt thanks to the Mayor’s Office and local officials for their continued solidarity.

The Tibetan National Uprising of 1959 remains a defining moment in Tibet’s modern history. The demonstration against Chinese rule in Lhasa resulted in a violent crackdown, with thousands of Tibetans killed or imprisoned. The uprising ultimately led to the Dalai Lama’s escape into exile, where he established the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) in India, advocating for Tibet’s autonomy and human rights.

Despite decades of international appeals, Tibet remains under Chinese control, with severe restrictions on religious freedom, cultural expression, and political dissent. Human rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the forced assimilation of Tibetans, the destruction of monasteries, and the imprisonment of activists who dare to speak out against the Chinese government.

Over the years, events like the Tibet flag-raising in Greenwich have helped keep the issue of Tibet alive in global discussions. They serve as a reminder that Tibetans in exile, along with their supporters worldwide, remain committed to seeking justice through non-violent means.

Tibet Flag Raising outside the Town Hall, Woolwich, London (UK) / 10th March 2025
Photo: Brian Aldrich Photography / Royal Borough of Greenwich

Dear Friends and Supporters, 

We are writing to invite you to another important public protest on Saturday, 15th March 2025 from 3pm to 5pm, at Royal Mint Court, Tower Hamlets. This large protest, jointly organised with over twenty community and human rights groups, is a call to action for everyone who values free speech, human rights, and democracy. 

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) plans to establish a massive “super-embassy” at Royal Mint Court, Tower Hamlets, London EC3N 4QN – against the will of the local council and residents. This project is not just an invasion of physical space but a direct threat to the sanctity of our democratic values. By overriding the earlier decisions of local elected councillors, the Labour government is appeasing Beijing’s autocratic regime while trampling on British principles of governance and democracy. 

Why This Protest Matters

This embassy is far more than a diplomatic mission. It represents an alarming expansion of China’s authoritarian influence. If allowed to proceed, it will serve as a hub for surveillance, intimidation, and coercion against critics of the PRC – including Tibetans, Uyghurs, Hongkongers, and others in the UK. 

The government’s decision to approve this embassy despite serious safety concerns previously raised by the Metropolitan Police is deeply troubling. Initially, the police objected to the project, citing inadequate space for large-scale protests, but reportedly under the government’s pressure, the Met Police has changed its position. A sudden reversal in their stance, based on questionable reasoning, has paved the way for this dangerous development. We must respond decisively, proving through our overwhelming presence that this site is unsuitable and that our right to free speech is non-negotiable. 

A Growing Threat to Democracy

The establishment of this “super-embassy” sends a chilling message: that Britain is willing to compromise its democratic ideals to placate a foreign dictatorship. This protest is an opportunity to stand together against the PRC’s growing authoritarianism and assert that Britain’s democratic spaces will not be sacrificed. 

Stand with Us on 15th of March

By attending this protest, you will: 

• Defend Free Speech: Safeguard the UK’s right to peaceful protest against oppressive regimes.
• Amplify the Voices of the Oppressed: Show solidarity with Hongkongers, Tibetans, Uyghurs, Taiwanese, and pro-democracy advocates persecuted by the PRC.
• Demand Accountability: Urge our government to uphold human rights and British democratic values.

What to Expect

• Powerful Speeches: Hear from prominent politicians, activists, and community leaders.
• United Communities: Join over 20 groups, including Hong Kong Watch, Tibetan Community in Britain, Stop Uyghur Genocide, Hongkongers in Britain, Taiwan Democracy and China Deviants standing in solidarity.
• A Historic Moment: Together, we will send an unignorable message to our government and the world.

 Practical Details 

• Date: Saturday, 15th March 2025
• Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Royal Mint Court, Tower Hamlets, London EC3N 4QN

(Nearest Underground: Tower Hill)

Bring your family, friends, and everyone who believes in democracy and human rights. Our strength lies in our numbers. Let us take to the streets and show the government that Britain will not stand for the encroachment of authoritarianism. 

Together, We Can Make a Difference

This is a critical moment to defend the UK’s democratic spaces and stand against the PRC’s oppressive regime. By uniting, we will show that the voices of free people cannot be silenced. The government’s decision to approve this embassy despite widespread opposition must not go unanswered. 

Let’s make history together. See you on 15th March. Stand strong for free speech, human rights, and democracy.

Yours in Solidarity, 

Phuntsok Norbu
Chairman, Tibetan Community in Britain

www.tibetancommunityuk.netTsering Passang
Founder and Chair, Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM)
www.facebook.com/GATPM2020 / www.Tsamtruk.com

[Op-Ed] China’s ‘Super-Embassy’ in London Must Be Stopped: A Threat to Democracy and Human Rights by Jay Ng and Tsering Passang

By Tsering Passang

A meaningful and enriching few days at the stunning University of Stirling in Scotland, where I had the privilege of participating in the Challenges and the Future of Minority and Indigenous Rights Protection Conference (March 5 – 7, 2025). Engaging with lawyers, interdisciplinary scholars, activists, community leaders, and human rights advocates from Asia, Africa, the Americas, the UK, and Europe was not only a valuable learning and sharing experience but also an opportunity to build lasting connections and allies for our respective causes.

As a Tibetan participant and speaker representing the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM), I spoke on “Land Rights in Tibet”, addressing the continued illegal occupation of Tibet by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) since 1950. I highlighted how the Chinese government’s land grabs, forced displacement of Tibetan nomads, and exploitation of Tibet’s natural resources are carried out without the consent of the Tibetan people – violating fundamental human rights and jeopardising Tibet’s cultural and environmental sustainability.

The conference, co-hosted by the University of Stirling and the Congress of Nations and States (CNS), created a dynamic space where diverse voices were heard and where shared struggles resonated across communities. The CNS Declaration, adopted at the conference, reaffirms the collective commitment of Peoples, Nations, and States to self-determination, cultural preservation, and peaceful conflict resolution. It underscores the urgent need for the implementation and enforcement of international law to protect Indigenous and persecuted communities.

“Gathering in spaces like this is a powerful act of resistance. It strengthens our collective voice and reminds us that while our struggles may be different, our fight for justice, dignity, and self-determination unites us all.”

Grateful to the University of Stirling and CNS for hosting such an impactful event – one that will leave a lasting impression and fuel our collective efforts to safeguard the rights of Tibetans and Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

#Tibet #LandRights #MinorityRights #IndigenousRights #SelfDetermination #HumanRights #CNS #CongressOfNationsAndStates #UniversityOfStirling #Scotland

Congress of Nations and States 

Challenges and The Future of Minority and Indigenous Rights Protection Conference March 5 – 7, 2025 

DECLARATION 

TAKING NOTE that the Congress of Nations and States co-hosted a conference with the  University of Stirling titled “Challenges and The Future of Minority and Indigenous Rights  Protection” from March 5 – 7, 2025 in Stirling, Scotland; 

RECALLING the challenges and inter-generational trauma Peoples face as a result of genocide,  crimes against humanity, forced displacement, forced evictions, ecocide and other forms of  environmental destruction, and the destruction of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, and  destruction of their ancestral lands; 

NOTING that the discussions in the conference highlighted the ability of law to resolve issues,  but the lack of implementation, lack of enforcement, and lack of political will have frustrated  potential remedies for Peoples around the world, on local, national, regional, and international  levels; 

AFFIRMING Peoples right to self-determination found in the UN Declaration on Granting  Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, UN International Covenant on Civil and  Political Rights, UN International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the UN  Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; 

AFFIRMING that states are obligated to prevent and punish the crime of genocide under The  Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, customary  international law, and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court; 

HEREBY DECLARE that as Peoples, Nations, and States: 

• We will continue to foster connections and community with each other in order to share  lived experiences and learn from each other;
• We will continue to gather in forums dedicated to both academic and non-academic  audiences in order to raise awareness, promote scholarship and interest in the  challenges facing our communities; 
• We will continue to promote awareness of our tangible and non-tangible cultural  heritage where possible and ensure that we support the inclusion of local Peoples in  places where we hold our meetings; 
• We will continue to support the tangible and non-tangible cultural heritage of the local  communities where we hold our meetings; 
• We urge all Peoples, Nations, and States to work seriously towards resolving conflicts  and disagreements peacefully through dialogue, cooperation, and other peaceful means.