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!
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 MEGAEMBASSY. NO CCP OUTPOST. NOT HERE. NOT EVER.
Follow and share updates using: #NoMegaEmbassy #LondonProtest #StopTheCCP
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.
Lobsang Trinley Lhündrub Chökyi Gyaltsen, The 10th Panchen Lama
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 10th Panchen Lama and the 14th Dalai Lama in the 1950s
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.
Recommendations
Immediate Release and Independent Access: China must reveal Gedhun Choekyi Nyima’s whereabouts and condition, and allow international agencies, including the UN and Red Cross, to verify his wellbeing.
End State Interference in Religion: Repeal Order No. 5 and stop interfering in reincarnation processes and spiritual affairs of the Tibetan people.
Protect All Persecuted Groups: End repression of Tibetan Buddhists, Uyghur Muslims, Christians, Falun Gong practitioners, and Mongolians.
Impose Accountability Measures: Governments must apply Magnitsky-style sanctions against Chinese officials responsible for religious persecution and disappearances.
Support the Dalai Lama’s Reincarnation Process: India, the US, EU, and UN must uphold Tibetans’ exclusive right to choose their spiritual leaders, free from CCP control.
Demand Legal and Moral Clarity: The UN Human Rights Council must intensify pressure on China to comply with its constitutional and international commitments.
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.
Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse. Pic: PA / SkyNews
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.”
GATPM urges the UK Government to take decisive action:
Summon the Chinese Ambassador and lodge a formal diplomatic protest;
Review UK-Hong Kong policy in light of continued violations of the Sino-British Joint Declaration;
Impose sanctions on officials responsible for human rights abuses and this egregious incident;
Protect British citizens of Tibetan, Uyghur, and Hongkonger backgrounds from foreign state intimidation;
Lead coordinated international efforts through the United Nations and other multilateral forums to hold the Chinese government accountable.
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
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.”
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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:
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.
Conduct an Independent and Impartial Investigation Initiate a transparent and internationally monitored inquiry into the circumstances of his detention, transfer, and untimely death.
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.
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.
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
Photo: Undated photo of Tulku Hungkar Dorje / Credit: Tibet.net
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:
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.
Immediate Release of His Body – The Vietnamese and Chinese governments must allow his body to be returned to Lungnon Monastery for proper Buddhist rites.
Vietnam’s Accountability – The Vietnamese government must explain its role in facilitating this unlawful arrest and clarify whether it acted under direct Chinese orders.
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.
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
The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) urgently calls on friends and supporters worldwide to stand in solidarity with the Tibetan refugee community in northern India. A catastrophic snowstorm has severely impacted the nomadic Tibetan families in Ladakh’s Jangthang region, causing immense loss and hardship.
These resilient communities, who have preserved their traditional way of life for generations, now face an unprecedented crisis. The storm has claimed the lives of over 4,140 livestock, devastating more than 240 families who depend entirely on these animals for their livelihood. Sheep, goats, and yaks provide not only sustenance but also economic stability through wool and dairy products. With this massive loss, their very survival is at risk.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering, President of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) makes the urgent appeal in Tibetan language for assistance.
Why This Matters
Living in one of the harshest environments, these Tibetan families now struggle to meet their daily needs. The loss of livestock means:
No source of income from wool and dairy products.
Severe food shortages as their primary means of sustenance is wiped out.
Threats to their traditional way of life, deeply intertwined with nomadic herding.
Increased vulnerability to extreme weather conditions with limited resources for recovery.
How You Can Help
GATPM urges all our friends and allies to respond immediately to the Central Tibetan Administration’s (CTA) appeal. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Donate Now: The Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) has launched an emergency crowdfunding campaign to provide essential aid to affected families. Your generous contribution can help provide food, shelter, and long-term support for rebuilding livelihoods.
Contact the CTA Directly: If you are in India, please reach out to your nearest Tibetan Settlement Office for donation and relief coordination. If you are outside India, kindly get in touch with the nearest Office of Tibet – London, UK.
Spread the Word: Share this urgent appeal with your networks, social media platforms, and local communities. Raising awareness is just as crucial as direct financial support.
Act Now – Show Your Solidarity
This is not just about financial assistance – it is about showing our collective compassion and standing with a community that has already faced immense hardships. The Tibetan people have long fought for their dignity and survival, and in this moment of crisis, they need your support more than ever.
Let us come together to help these Tibetan families rebuild their lives. Your support today can make a world of difference.
Tsering Passang Founder & Chair Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM)
P.S. The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) are not raising funds for the affected Tibetan families. We are simply helping to promote the urgent appeal made by the Central Tibetan Administration on 4th April 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.
Voice for the Voiceless is the latest book by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, who turns 90 in July this year. Tsamtruk.com is delighted to publish this book review, submitted by a Tibet supporter. Thank you!
Voice for the Voiceless: Over Seven Decades of Struggle with China for My Land and My People
A Political Manifesto for Tibet’s Struggle
Part One: The Dalai Lama’s Succession – A Matter for Tibetans, Not China
“Voice for the Voiceless: Over Seven Decades of Struggle with China for My Land and My People” is clearly the Dalai Lama’s most political book to date. At 90 years old, he writes with the weight of history on his shoulders, fully aware that this may be his last major statement on Tibet’s struggle. The book reads like a final political testament, an urgent call to action for Tibetans and the world alike.
He poses two key questions:
“Were the Chinese ever serious about substantive negotiations on Tibet? What lessons should we learn from our history of dealing with the People’s Republic of China thus far for the future of our struggle for freedom?”
The Dalai Lama makes it abundantly clear that his successor will be born in exile, beyond Beijing’s reach:
“Since the purpose of a reincarnation is to carry on the work of the predecessor, the new Dalai Lama will be born in the free world so that the traditional mission of the Dalai Lama—that is, to be the voice for universal compassion, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, and the symbol of Tibet embodying the aspirations of the Tibetan people—will continue.”
This is an explicit rejection of China’s attempts to control his reincarnation, a strategy it has already used to install a puppet Panchen Lama. China has long recognised that control over Tibetan Buddhism means control over Tibet itself. In 2015, Zhu Weiqun, then Chairman of China’s Committee for Ethnic and Religious Affairs, admitted: “Whoever has the name of the Dalai Lama will control political power in Tibet.”
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is an atheist regime with no legitimate claim over Tibetan spiritual affairs. Yet, as the Dalai Lama warns, China is determined to exploit reincarnation for political ends. Tibetans must remain vigilant.
The cover of the Dalai Lama’s new book ‘Voice for the Voiceless’ (left), and the Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader holding a copy of his book (right), in undated photos. (Image: RFA)
Part Two: A Call to Action – Supporting the Tibetan Cause
The Dalai Lama does not present Voice for the Voiceless as a mere historical record but as a demand for renewed global support. The struggle for Tibet is not over, and the Dalai Lama is explicit about the need to preserve Tibetan identity:
“One clear lesson we know from history is this: If you keep people permanently unhappy, you cannot have a stable society.”
Tibetans face cultural annihilation under Beijing’s rule. The CCP has systematically dismantled Tibetan institutions, forced children into Mandarin-language boarding schools, and flooded Tibet with Han Chinese settlers. The Dalai Lama warns of “coercive policies of assimilation” that threaten the very existence of Tibetan culture.
Unfortunately in the West, Tibet has faded from the political agenda. Tibetan Buddhism is now firmly established with many centres representing many of the traditional lineages inside Tibet. However the depiction of Buddhism in pop culture has changed, reflects this increasingly cynical shift, in The White Lotus, Patrick Schwarzenegger’s character sneers:
“Buddhism is for cowards. They’re afraid… Don’t get attached, don’t have desires, don’t even try.” This reflects a growing trend of dismissing Buddhism as passive, apolitical, and irrelevant—a convenient narrative for those who would prefer to ignore Tibet’s plight. The Dalai Lama’s book is a direct challenge to this apparent indifference. People who practice Buddhism could be a powerful voice to support Tibet.
Governments must take a firm stand. While the United States has passed legislation affirming Tibetans’ right to choose their own spiritual leaders, the Trump administration is proposing cuts to foreign aid that directly undermine Tibetans in exile.
Disappointingly, the UK’s response has long been tepidly prioritising trade with China over human rights. A December 2023 parliamentary debate saw Foreign Office Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan state that the Dalai Lama’s succession is a matter for “the relevant religious authorities.” But without explicit international political opposition, Beijing will continue its efforts to erase Tibetan sovereignty without obstacles.
The Dalai Lama has spent decades advocating a peaceful resolution, yet he clearly understands that after he is gone, the patience of Tibetans has worn thin with the lack of progress.
Part Three: A History of Betrayal – China’s Broken Promises and the Brutal Reality of Occupation
The heart of the book is its historical account of Tibet’s betrayal at the hands of China. He recounts the 1950 invasion, when the People’s Liberation Army crossed the Drichu River and occupied Chamdo. He recalls the crushing disappointment of the 1951 Seventeen-Point Agreement, signed under duress:
“You can imagine my shock.”
Despite early attempts at negotiation—including a 1954 meeting with Mao Zedong—the Dalai Lama soon realised China had no intention of honouring its promises:
“The promises and assurances received in Beijing turned out to be empty.”
The suffering of the Tibetan people worsened in the following decades. The Dalai Lama describes writing directly to Mao three times as Tibetans endured mass repression:
“During the many disasters and unspeakable acts against Tibetans that were to follow, I wrote three times to Chairman Mao, the third time ensuring that my letter was personally delivered. There was never an answer.”
His exile in 1959 marked the beginning of Tibet’s global fight for recognition. Yet, even now, negotiations with Beijing remain futile. His envoy’s talks with Chinese officials between 2002 and 2010 ended with Beijing shutting down all dialogue:
“Our clarification document was presented at the ninth round of discussions in January 2010. It turned out to be the end of the conversation. Formal dialogue has not resumed since.”
The Dalai Lama also reflects on his hopes for Xi Jinping, recalling his father’s opposition to the Tiananmen crackdown and his own mothers reported Buddhist beliefs.
“So I had hopes that President Xi would have more personal empathy for the Tibetan people. In fact, when it was announced that Xi Jinping would visit Delhi in 2014, I even communicated my wish to meet him in person. Unfortunately, nothing came of this gesture.”
China’s stance on Tibet has only hardened, with mass surveillance, arbitrary detentions, and the destruction of Tibetan cultural sites continuing at an alarming rate.
Xi Jinping is clearly prepared to wait out this Dalai Lama before attempting to anoint a Chinese CCP-approved successor, who will not be recognised by Tibetans or western followers.
Conclusion: The Time for Silence is Over
Voice for the Voiceless is not just a history book; it is a warning.
In 1951, the city of Lhasa had a population of just over 30,000, while the entire Tibetan army consisted of approximately 8,500 soldiers, compared to the invading People’s Liberation Army with more than 80,000 battle-hardened soldiers. The demographic changes in Tibet show a huge influx of Han Chinese settlers into Tibet. More recently, there are reports that since 2021, up to a million children are being removed from their families to be placed in Mandarin-only boarding schools, and in Kham (eastern Tibet), mass deforestation by China is reported to have destroyed more than 50% of forests. Before the Chinese invasion, there were over 2,500 monasteries in Tibet, but afterward, the Chinese government kept only 70 or so in existence, a reduction of more than 97%. The number of monks and nuns in Tibet also saw a drastic reduction, from about 110,000 to approximately 7,000.
The Dalai Lama is acutely aware that China is playing the long game. Tibetans are being systematically erased from their homeland, and without international pressure, Beijing could achieve its goal.
The Dalai Lama’s gentle approach has kept Tibet’s plight on the world stage, but Tibetans need more than words. The Middle Way Approach—seeking autonomy rather than full independence—was always a compromise, but even this has been rejected by China.
Tibetans continue to resist, whether through direct activism or quiet defiance. Yet, without international support, they face an impossible battle.
The Dalai Lama’s message to the world is clear:
“Finally, regardless of whatever happens, we must never lose faith in humanity.”
But faith alone is not enough. The world must act to save 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
The Honourable Marco Rubio Secretary of State US Department of State 2201 C Street NW Washington, D.C. 20510
USA
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
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
Luke de Pulford, Co-founder and Executive Director of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) delivering a powerful speech at the Tibet Rally in Whitehall 10th March 2025 Photo: Tibetan Community UK
“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.
Tibet Flag Raising outside the Town Hall, Woolwich, London (UK) / 10th March 2025 Photo: Brian Aldrich Photography / Royal Borough of Greenwich
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
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
On 10th March, an important event titled “The Importance of Genocide Recognition” was sponsored by Rosie Duffield MP, providing a vital platform for parliamentarians and affected communities to address ongoing genocide concerns. The meeting, held at Portcullis House, UK Parliament, from 9 am to 11 am, was attended by Fleur Anderson MP, Minister for Northern Ireland, alongside representatives from the Alliance for the Prevention of Atrocity Crimes and the Congress of Nations & States (CNS). Representatives from Hazara (Afghanistan), Dega (Vietnam), Irob and associated Tigrayan groups, Biafra (Nigeria), and Rohingya (Myanmar) made representations at the meeting, which was coordinated and moderated by James Joseph, Director of The Duty Legacy.
The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) took this opportunity to submit its powerful statement, Genocide Recognition in Tibet: A Moral and Legal Imperative. This statement urges the UK Government and Parliament to adopt a leadership role in advancing resolutions and actions that hold China accountable for its systematic persecution and cultural destruction of the Tibetan people, echoing the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) 1959 Report and the follow-up 1960 ICJ Report.
Tsering Passang, Founder and Chair of GATPM, welcomed this opportunity, stating: “Raising the issue of Tibet’s genocide in the UK Parliament is a significant step in our ongoing pursuit of justice. The atrocities committed against Tibetans clearly meet the Genocide Convention 1948 definition. We urge the UK Government to take a principled stand in holding China accountable and ensuring justice for the Tibetan people.”
GATPM’s statement highlights the urgent need for international recognition of the atrocities in Tibet as genocide, underscoring both the moral duty and the legal obligations of democratic nations to respond. By supporting such measures, the UK can demonstrate its commitment to justice, human rights, and the protection of persecuted minorities worldwide.
Genocide Recognition in Tibet: A Moral and Legal Imperative
Statement by the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM)
10th March 2025
We extend our sincere gratitude to Honourable Rosie Duffield MP for hosting this important event, “The Importance of Genocide Recognition,” at Portcullis House, UK Parliament.
We appreciate the opportunity to present this Statement and commend her dedication to addressing crimes against humanity, including the ongoing genocide in Tibet.
Fleur Anderson MP, Minister for Northern Ireland, engaging with the affected communities in the UK Parliament on 10th March 2025; Photo: CNS
Today marks the 66th anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day, when tens of thousands of Tibetans rose up in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, on 10 March 1959 against the invading People’s Liberation Army (PLA) troops of China to protect their leader, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and to defend their nation’s sovereignty. In remembrance of this historic resistance, we reaffirm the urgent need for the international community to recognise and act upon the genocide in Tibet.
For over seven decades, Tibet has suffered under the brutal and illegal occupation of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). In its landmark 1959 report, “The Question of Tibet and the Rule of Law”, the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) found that China had committed acts of genocide in Tibet, stating that “acts of genocide had been committed in Tibet in an attempt to destroy the Tibetans as a religious group.” The report documented mass killings, systematic destruction of Tibetan culture and religious institutions, and deliberate efforts to erase Tibet’s national identity. The ICJ’s 1960 follow-up report reinforced these findings, concluding that China’s policies in Tibet amounted to genocide under the 1948 Genocide Convention (ICJ Report, 1959; ICJ Report, 1960).
Today, the evidence of genocide is clearer and more urgent than ever. China’s policies of forced assimilation, including its colonial-style boarding school system, represent the latest chapter in its ongoing destruction of Tibetan identity. Up to one million Tibetan children, some as young as four years old, have been forcibly separated from their families and placed in state-controlled institutions where they are systematically denied their language, history, and cultural rights. This mass removal and forced indoctrination are deliberate acts aimed at severing Tibetan identity from future generations.
Religious Persecution: A Continuing Genocidal Policy
China’s systematic persecution of Tibetan Buddhism remains a core pillar of its genocidal policies. Since the ICJ’s report over six decades ago, Beijing has intensified its repression of Tibetan religious life. Monasteries – once the heart of Tibetan culture – are under constant surveillance, and monks and nuns are arbitrarily detained for peaceful expressions of faith. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has criminalised the possession of images of the Dalai Lama, with severe punishments meted out to those caught venerating Tibet’s spiritual leader.
Reports from the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief have documented Beijing’s relentless crackdown on Tibetan religious practices, including the forced “Sinicization” of Buddhism, where monks and nuns are subjected to re-education programmes that demand loyalty to the Communist Party over their spiritual beliefs. The demolition of Larung Gar and Yarchen Gar in Serta, eastern Tibet – two of the world’s largest Buddhist learning centres – illustrates the CCP’s intent to eradicate independent Tibetan religious institutions. Additionally, the CCP has assumed control over the identification and recognition of reincarnate Tibetan Buddhist masters, including the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama, in a blatant attempt to dismantle the centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Why Genocide Recognition Matters
Legal Precedent and Accountability
The 1948 Genocide Convention defines genocide as acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group. The evidence – documented over decades, including by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – proves that China’s actions in Tibet meet this threshold. Yet, the international community has failed in its legal and moral obligation to hold China accountable.
The ICJ’s 1959 report recommended that UN Member States take action to ensure Tibet’s plight was properly examined under international law. However, despite these clear recommendations, the world has remained largely silent while China continues its systematic cultural and demographic genocide in Tibet.
The UK’s Moral and Political Obligation
Britain has a unique historical responsibility toward Tibet, having maintained formal diplomatic relations with Tibet prior to the founding of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The UK Government has a duty to recognise the ongoing genocide in Tibet and take a leadership role in addressing this crisis at the United Nations, the Human Rights Council, and within multilateral forums such as the G7 and G20.
A Call for Policy Change
Recognition of genocide in Tibet must lead to concrete policy measures, including:
Formal recognition of Tibet as an occupied country, challenging China’s false narrative of Tibet’s “peaceful liberation.”
Reinforcing Tibet’s autonomy and its right to self-determination aligns with the UK’s Indo-Pacific strategy to ensure a free, open, and rules-based order.
Targeted sanctions against Chinese officials and entities responsible for crimes against Tibetans.
International legal action, including referrals to the International Criminal Court (ICC) or the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Parliamentary resolutions recognising the ongoing genocide in Tibet, similar to the genocide designations on Uyghur Muslims on China’s occupied-East Turkestan.
Support for Tibetan refugees and human rights defenders to ensure their safety and ability to advocate for justice.
A Crisis That Demands Action
We cannot stand by while an ancient civilisation is systematically erased. If the world is serious about its commitment to “Never Again,” it must recognise and respond to the ongoing genocide in Tibet. Silence and inaction embolden state perpetrators like the People’s Republic of China (PRC), paving the way for further atrocities.
The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) calls on the United Kingdom Government and the UK Parliament to take a leadership role in securing resolutions and actions to hold China accountable for its crimes against the Tibetan people. Enduring over seven decades of injustice is not only immoral but also emboldens perpetrators worldwide.
History will judge those who remained silent. The time to act is now.
Issued by:
Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM)
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.
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.
10th March 2025 | 9:30 am – 10:45 am Town Hall, Woolwich, London | Royal Borough of Greenwich
Tibet Flag raised at Town Hall, Woolwich / Photo: Royal Borough of Greenwich 6th March 2024
The Royal Borough of Greenwich will reaffirm its support for the Tibetan people as Deputy Mayor Cllr. Linda Bird raises the Tibetan national flag at Woolwich Town Hall on 10th March 2025. This annual event underscores the borough’s commitment to Tibet’s resilience and its peaceful struggle for freedom, justice, and human rights. It also pays tribute to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s spiritual leader and Nobel Peace Laureate, who will celebrate his 90th birthday in July this year.
With over 200 Tibetans calling the borough home, Greenwich has the largest Tibetan community in any single borough across the UK. Tibetans in Greenwich will join their compatriots and supporters worldwide in marking the 66th anniversary of Tibetan National Uprising Day – a historic moment when Tibetans in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital, rose against China’s occupation in 1959.
The event will feature a Buddhist prayer for world peace, the hoisting of the Tibetan national flag, and addresses from dignitaries, including the UK-based His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Representative.
The Greenwich Tibetan Association (GTA) extends its sincere gratitude to the Mayor’s Office and the Royal Borough of Greenwich for their continued support and solidarity with the Tibetan people through this annual tradition.
Tsering Passang, Coordinator of the Tibet Flag Raising event and Chair of the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities, commented: “We deeply appreciate the unwavering support of the Royal Borough of Greenwich and its leaders in standing with Tibet. 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.”
As we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake – 2152 on 28th February 2025, I extend my warmest Losar Tashi Deleg to you and your loved ones! May this Tibetan New Year bring joy, strength, and prosperity to all.
Losar is a time to honor our rich heritage, from the golden era of Tibet’s Dharma Kings to the resilience and determination of our people today. It is also a moment to renew our collective commitment to justice and freedom, especially for those still suffering under China’s brutal rule.
This year holds special significance as we celebrate the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama on 6th July – a milestone that reminds us of his lifelong dedication to peace, compassion, and the Tibetan cause. His wisdom continues to guide and inspire us in our struggle for truth and justice.
On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all supporters, parliamentarians, NGOs, human rights activists, political leaders, and allies who stand in solidarity with Tibet and other persecuted communities. Your unwavering support strengthens our movement and amplifies our voices on the global stage.
With your continued solidarity, the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) remains steadfast in its mission to champion human rights, freedom, and justice. As we step into this new year, let us reaffirm our shared resolve to stand for Tibet and all those enduring persecution.
Thank you for your commitment and support. May the spirit of Losar inspire us to move forward with courage, unity, and determination!
Losar Tashi Deleg!
With gratitude and determination,
Tsering Passang Founder & Chair Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM)
Come and join the Tibetan Freedom March and Commemoration Event in London on March 10th to show your support and solidarity with the Tibetan people. For more than six decades, Communist China has tightly controlled Tibet and its brutal repression continues. This must stop. Stand for Justice, Freedom, Human Rights and Democracy.
Protest – Tibetan Freedom March
Venue – 10 Downing Street, London SW1A 2AA
Date/Time – 10th March 2025, Monday / Gathering from 11:00am
Speeches and protest march towards Chinese Embassy start at 11:45 am.
Protest and demonstration in front of the Chinese Embassy from 13:00 to 14:00.
Events – Speeches, Commemoration Songs, Tea and Momo (on sale).
Keeping The Flame Alive: Why Tibetans Worldwide Commemorate March 10th
(By Tsering Passang)
From time to time, Tibet was invaded by foreign powers. After the Communist Party of China (CCP) came to power and with the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Mao Tsetung declared the so-called “peaceful liberation” of Tibet from foreign imperialists, on 1st October 1949.
Soon, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) marched into Tibet. For Tibetans, this was the beginning of modern China’s invasion of Tibet in the post Second World War era.
“Seventeen-Point Agreement”
On 23rd May 1951, the “Seventeen-Point Agreement” was signed between the representatives of the independent Tibetan Government in Lhasa and the Chinese Communist Government in Peking. Tibetans have always maintained that the agreement was signed by the Tibetan representatives “under duress”.
After the occupation of eastern Tibet’s provincial capital, Chamdo, the People’s Republic of China (PRC), on 23 May 1951, forced Tibet to sign the 17-point “Agreement on Measures for the Peaceful Liberation of Tibet”. The alternative, the occupying forces said, was immediate military operation in the remaining parts of Tibet. Photo adapted from Claude Arpi exhibition.
His Excellency Lukhangwa, the lay Tibetan Prime Minister, plainly told Chinese Representative Zhang Jingwu in 1952 that the Tibetan “people did not accept the agreement”. Nevertheless, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet, who was a young teenager at the time, decided to work with the Chinese “in order to save my people and country from total destruction”, as he wrote in his memoir, ‘My Land and My People’.
For eight years, the Dalai Lama tried to abide by the terms of that document. The Tibetan Leader even relieved his Prime Minister Lukhangwa from his post, who had made no secret of his staunch opposition to the Chinese aggression.
Foreign trips and meetings with Chinese, Indian leaders
In 1954, the young Dalai Lama visited Peking. During his nearly 6 months’ stay the Dalai Lama had meetings with many Chinese leaders including Chairman Mao Tsetung and Premier Chou En-lai on a few occasions. Both of them gave assurances to him on Tibet’s good future.
In 1956, at the invitation of the Mahabodhi Society of India, the Dalai Lama travelled to India to join the 2500th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Lord Buddha. During his India trip, the Dalai Lama had meetings with the Indian Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and discussed Tibet.
The Dalai Lama later expressed his intention to seek asylum in India but Nehru advised the Tibetan Leader to return and work within Tibet.
At the same time, the Chinese Premier Chou En-lai travelled to Delhi where he met both Nehru and the Dalai Lama and urged the young Tibetan leader to return to Tibet. Finally, the Dalai Lama returned to Lhasa.
Tension rising in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital
By early 1959, a large number of the PLA troops entered central Tibet – about 20,000 were stationed in Lhasa alone. The tension was now rising in the Tibetan capital. Tens of thousands of Tibetans from east Tibet were retreating towards Lhasa while fighting continued in the east.
In early March 1959, the PLA invited the Dalai Lama to attend a planned cultural show at its headquarters without any Tibetan bodyguards.
The date for the theatrical show was set for 10th March.
The general public in Lhasa became suspicious and over 30,000 Tibetans gathered at the Norbu Lingkha, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, for his security and requested him not to attend the show.
The Dalai Lama, who was then 24, faced a difficult dilemma. In his autobiography, ‘My Land and My People’ the Dalai Lama wrote, “…as if I was standing between two volcanoes, each likely to erupt at any moment. On one side, there was the vehement, unequivocal, unanimous protest of my people against the Chinese regime; on the other hand, there was the armed might of a powerful and aggressive occupying force.”
With the huge crowd surrounding the Norbu Lingkha palace, it was almost impossible for the Dalai Lama to leave.
The PLA generals were enraged when three of the Dalai Lama’s ministers told them that he would not be attending. A couple of days later, the Chinese army fired two mortars at the summer palace.
With the situation at boiling point, on the night of 17th March, the Dalai Lama decided to leave Lhasa immediately. According to his autobiography, the Dalai Lama, disguised as an ordinary soldier, rode out of his palace on horseback “unchallenged [and moved] towards the dark road beyond”.
Tibet in Exile
After nearly two weeks of a treacherous journey, with protection provided by the volunteer Tibetan resistance forces, the Dalai Lama reached safety in India, on 31st March 1959.
Some 80,000 Tibetan refugees followed him into India, Nepal and Bhutan.
The young and charismatic Dalai Lama re-established the Tibetan Government-in-exile (officially known as the Central Tibetan Administration) currently based in Dharamsala, northern India.
A staunch believer in democracy, the Dalai Lama has introduced this western democratic system into Tibetan society, little by little since 1960.
In 2011, the Dalai Lama decided to fully relinquish his previously inherited political leadership, which had been sustained for nearly 400 years, by passing the historic seal to the directly elected Sikyong (otherwise known as the President) Dr. Lobsang Sangay (a legal scholar from Harvard University), of the Central Tibetan Administration.
Under his amazing leadership, the Dalai Lama established a network of Tibetan settlements, schools, hospitals, monasteries, nunneries as well as cultural institutions to provide vital education, healthcare, welfare needs and cultural preservation in India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Internally, his visionary leadership in exile for the Tibetan society has kept its identity and culture alive. Externally, especially after receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, the Dalai Lama gained new celebrity status on the global stage which helped to promote the Tibetan issue.
His message of peace and non-violence for resolving conflicts, promotion of religious harmony and human values got greater recognition.
The present 14th Dalai Lama, who turns 90 in July, is not only a Tibetan spiritual leader but a highly respected moral leader on the world stage.
Since coming into exile, Tibetans in India and around the world observe this poignant 10th March anniversary every year to condemn China’s repression in Tibet whilst remembering those who died in their struggle for freedom.
In Dharamsala as well as in major Tibetan settlements across India, the official functions include recitation of Buddhist prayers and singing of political Tibetan songs.
Every year, the President of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament in exile issue official political statements on this day.
These are available on the CTA website www.tibet.net. The TibetTV – www.TibetOnline.tv also live webcast the official proceeding on this day.
Non-governmental Tibetan organisations such as the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), which call for Rangzen (Independence of Tibet), often organise political demonstrations worldwide around this historic date.
This can include demonstrations outside the Chinese Embassy in Delhi or engaging in hunger strikes in front of the United Nations in New York to draw their attention to the Tibetan plight.
This year in London, the Tibetan Community in Britain, Free Tibet and Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities are staging protest march from Whitehall to the Chinese Embassy in Portland Place, followed by Commemoration Event at Indian YMCA near Goodge Street.
The day will also bring Tibetans across the European countries in The Haque where a massive rally is being planned – calling for end of China’s occupation of Tibet under the banner of ‘Europe Stands with Tibet’. Americsn basketball star Enes Kanter Freedom is scheduled to address the rally along with Kalon Rinzin Dolma, Minister for the Department of the Information and International Relations (DIIR) of the Central Tibetan Administration amongst other leading speakers.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy welcomes China’s foreign affairs minister Wang Yi ahead of a meeting at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London. (James Manning/PA)
On the 112th anniversary of the Proclamation of Tibet’s Independence, the Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) calls on Britain and China to address Tibet’s unresolved status and ongoing human rights violations.
“13th February 2025 marks the 112th anniversary of the Proclamation of Tibet’s Independence by the Great 13th Dalai Lama, following the expulsion of Qing imperial forces. This reaffirmed Tibet’s sovereign status – one that remained intact until Communist China’s illegal invasion in 1950. For Tibetans worldwide, this historic proclamation remains a cornerstone of their enduring struggle for freedom and international recognition.
We urge British Foreign Secretary David Lammy to raise Tibet and the Chinese government’s ongoing human rights violations during his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in London. We also hope that Secretary Lammy recalls GATPM’s policy submission – Strategic and Security Implications for the UK in the Indo-Pacific Region: A Policy Proposal on Tibet. A key recommendation in this proposal is the strategic necessity of restoring Tibet as a buffer state between India and China to ensure long-term peace and stability in the region, a point strongly reinforced in the recent joint Op-Ed by Lord Alton and Chris Law MP, ‘The UK has a strategic and moral imperative to support Tibet,’ published in PoliticsHome.com last month.
The timing of Minister Wang Yi’s visit to London on this significant anniversary underscores Tibet’s unresolved status. His meeting with Foreign Secretary Lammy also takes place against the backdrop of Britain’s historical engagements with Tibet during the British India era, including the 1904 Younghusband Expedition and subsequent treaties that shaped Tibet’s diplomatic standing. As senior British and Chinese diplomats convene, it is imperative that Tibet’s rightful place in history, its strategic significance, and the ongoing plight of the Tibetan people remain firmly on the agenda.”
With growing global concerns over China’s increasing assertiveness, the UK has a responsibility to uphold democratic values and advocate for Tibet’s rightful status. The Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities urges the British government to reaffirm its commitment to human rights and international law by addressing Tibet’s past, present, and future.
13th February 1913 – 13th February 2025: Why Tibetans Commemorate the 112th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Tibet’s Independence?
In his Proclamation of the Tibetan Independence, on 13th February 1913, His Holiness the Great XIII Dalai Lama, declared: “Tibet is a country with rich natural resources; but it is not scientifically advanced like other lands. We are a small, religious, and independent nation. To keep up with the rest of the world, we must defend our country. In view of past invasions by foreigners, our people may have to face certain difficulties, which they must disregard. To safeguard and maintain the independence of our country, one and all should voluntarily work hard. Our subject citizens residing near the borders should be alert and keep the government informed by special messenger of any suspicious developments. Our subjects must not create major clashes between two nations because of minor incidents.”
The proclamation was made after the Great Thirteenth Dalai Lama returned to Tibet from exile in India, in January 1913. At the time of the Dalai Lama’s return to his landlocked Tibetan Kingdom, the Manchu dynasty had been dissolved in the course of the Chinese revolution. For nearly forty years afterwards, Tibetans enjoyed self-rule – only for it to come to an end in 1949, after Communist China’s Mao Tsetung declared “peaceful liberation” of Tibetans from the foreign imperialists.
For Tibetans, Mao’s declaration was not only a brutal attack on Buddhist religion and the Tibetan culture but an illegal occupation of their peaceful nation by the giant neighbour, People’s Republic of China. The Tibetan people have a proud history of independence with the successive Dalai Lamas enjoying spiritual patronage over Mongols and Chinese emperors.
Just as it did more than a thousand years ago, today, a doring (pillar) stands outside the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet’s capital city. On its stone sides the Tibet-China Treaty of 821-822 AD is carved, signifying the legacy of a free and independent Tibet.
“Tibetans shall be happy in the land of Tibet, and Chinese shall be happy in the land of China,” reads a key text in the treaty, clearly describing the borders between Tibet and China.
For those who haven’t read the Proclamation of Independence Issued by the Great XIII Dalai Lama, please see below:
PROCLAMATION ISSUED BY H.H. THE DALAI LAMA XIII, ON THE EIGHTH DAY OF THE FIRST MONTH OF THE WATER-OX YEAR (1913)
Translation of the Tibetan Text
“I, the Dalai Lama, most omniscient possessor of the Buddhist faith, whose title was conferred by the Lord Buddha’s command from the glorious land of India, speak to you as follows:
I am speaking to all classes of Tibetan people. Lord Buddha, from the glorious country of India, prophesied that the reincarnations of Avalokitesvara, through successive rulers from the early religious kings to the present day, would look after the welfare of Tibet.
During the time of Genghis Khan and Altan Khan of the Mongols, the Ming dynasty of the Chinese, and the Ch’ing Dynasty of the Manchus, Tibet and China cooperated on the basis of benefactor and priest relationship. A few years ago, the Chinese authorities in Szechuan and Yunnan endeavored to colonize our territory. They brought large numbers of troops into central Tibet on the pretext of policing the trade marts. I, therefore, left Lhasa with my ministers for the Indo-Tibetan border, hoping to clarify to the Manchu emperor by wire that the existing relationship between Tibet and China had been that of patron and priest and had not been based on the subordination of one to the other. There was no other choice for me but to cross the border, because Chinese troops were following with the intention of taking me alive or dead.
On my arrival in India, I dispatched several telegrams to the Emperor; but his reply to my demands was delayed by corrupt officials at Peking. Meanwhile, the Manchu empire collapsed. The Tibetans were encouraged to expel the Chinese from central Tibet. I, too, returned safely to my rightful and sacred country, and I am now in the course of driving out the remnants of Chinese troops from DoKham in Eastern Tibet. Now, the Chinese intention of colonizing Tibet under the patron-priest relationship has faded like a rainbow in the sky. Having once again achieved for ourselves a period of happiness and peace, I have now allotted to all of you the following duties to be carried out without negligence:
Peace and happiness in this world can only be maintained by preserving the faith of Buddhism. It is, therefore, essential to preserve all Buddhist institutions in Tibet, such as the Jokhang temple and Ramoche in Lhasa, Samye, and Traduk in southern Tibet, and the three great monasteries, etc.
The various Buddhist sects in Tibet should be kept in a distinct and pure form. Buddhism should be taught, learned, and meditated upon properly. Except for special persons, the administrators of monasteries are forbidden to trade, loan money, deal in any kind of livestock, and/or subjugate another’s subjects.
The Tibetan government’s civil and military officials, when collecting taxes or dealing with their subject citizens, should carry out their duties with fair and honest judgment so as to benefit the government without hurting the interests of the subject citizens. Some of the central government officials posted at Ngari Korsum in western Tibet, and Do Kham in eastern Tibet, are coercing their subject citizens to purchase commercial goods at high prices and have imposed transportation rights exceeding the limit permitted by the government. Houses, properties and lands belonging to subject citizens have been confiscated on the pretext of minor breaches of the law. Furthermore, the amputation of citizens’ limbs has been carried out as a form of punishment. Henceforth, such severe punishments are forbidden.
Tibet is a country with rich natural resources; but it is not scientifically advanced like other lands. We are a small, religious, and independent nation. To keep up with the rest of the world, we must defend our country. In view of past invasions by foreigners, our people may have to face certain difficulties, which they must disregard. To safeguard and maintain the independence of our country, one and all should voluntarily work hard. Our subject citizens residing near the borders should be alert and keep the government informed by special messenger of any suspicious developments. Our subjects must not create major clashes between two nations because of minor incidents.
Tibet, although thinly populated, is an extensive country. Some local officials and landholders are jealously obstructing other people from developing vacant lands, even though they are not doing so themselves. People with such intentions are enemies of the State and our progress. From now on, no one is allowed to obstruct anyone else from cultivating whatever vacant lands are available. Land taxes will not be collected until three years have passed; after that the land cultivator will have to pay taxes to the government and to the landlord every year, proportionate to the rent. The land will belong to the cultivator.
Your duties to the government and to the people will have been achieved when you have executed all that I have said here. This letter must be posted and proclaimed in every district of Tibet, and a copy kept in the records of the offices in every district.
From the Potala Palace.
(Seal of the Dalai Lama)”
Source (and further reading): Tibet: A Political History, Tsepon W.D. Shagapda, New Haven, 1967, pp. 246-248.
With profound sadness, Tibetans around the world mourn the passing of Gyalo Thondup, a veteran Tibetan political figure and elder brother of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who dedicated his life to the Tibetan struggle for freedom. He passed away on Saturday, 8 February 2025, at Taktser House in Kalimpong in West Bengal, India, at the age of 97.
Born in 1928 in Taktser, Amdo, Gyalo Thondup played a pivotal role in shaping modern Tibetan politics in exile. A central figure in diplomatic, intelligence, and resistance efforts, he forged crucial alliances with India, the United States, and other global powers to garner support for Tibet’s cause.
A Life Committed to Tibet’s Freedom
Gyalo Thondup pursued his early education in Nanjing, China, where he became fluent in Standard Chinese and Chinese history. During this period, he met influential Chinese leaders, including Chiang Kai-shek. However, as the Communist revolution unfolded in 1949, he left Nanjing and, by 1952, had relocated to Kalimpong, India, where he became a leading strategist in the Tibetan resistance movement.
He was instrumental in recruiting Tibetan fighters who received CIA training in the United States. His leadership helped establish the Mustang-based Tibetan Resistance Movement, which played a vital role in resisting the Chinese occupation. His political maneuvering also helped secure the passage of three crucial United Nations General Assembly resolutions on Tibet (1959, 1961, and 1965), bringing global attention to Tibet’s plight.
During the Dalai Lama’s escape to India in 1959, Gyalo Thondup worked closely with Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, ensuring the safe passage and resettlement of Tibetan refugees. He later initiated direct talks with Deng Xiaoping in 1979, marking a shift from armed resistance to diplomatic engagement with China. His efforts paved the way for continued negotiations between Tibetan envoys and Chinese leadership in the decades that followed.
Gyalo Thondup served as Kalon Tripa (Chairman) of the 9th Kashag (Cabinet) of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) from 1991 to 1993 and as the Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Security during the 10th Kashag. His contributions to Tibet’s governance in exile were significant, shaping Tibetan politics for generations.
The Dalai Lama and his second-eldest brother Gyalo Thondup in December 2023. This image was released by the Office of HIs Holiness the Dalai Lama – http://www.dalailama.com.
The Legacy of His Struggles
Gyalo Thondup documented his remarkable journey in his book, The Noodle Maker of Kalimpong: The Untold Story of My Struggle for Tibet (2015), which provided an insider’s account of the Tibetan resistance and international diplomacy. In this work, he reflected on the hardships of exile and the complexity of the Tibetan cause, which can simply be summed up: Tibet’s struggle is not just about a nation lost, but about the survival of a civilisation, a way of life, and a spiritual heritage that has much to offer the world.
His book remains a crucial historical record of Tibet’s modern struggle and his personal sacrifices to ensure the Tibetan identity endures.
Tributes from Tibetan Leaders
On 9 February, the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama held a memorial prayer at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, South India.
“It is with deep sorrow that I share the passing of my elder brother, Gyalo Thondup. The primary purpose of the offerings made to the monks gathered here today for his memorial service is to honour his life and legacy. My brother worked with immense dedication and courage, and his determination was truly remarkable. Through these memorial offerings, we pray for his auspicious rebirth, specifically as a Tibetan, where he may continue to serve the cause of Tibet, as he so deeply desired. I too make this prayer on his behalf.”
Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the political leader of the CTA, honoured his legacy, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
“It is with deep sorrow that we, the CTA and the Tibetan people, mourn the passing of Gyalo Thondup la, the elder brother of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A towering figure in Tibet’s history, he lived a meaningful life defined by his unparalleled contributions to the Tibetan cause. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. May he attain a swift rebirth and continue his virtuous legacy.”
Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile also paid tribute:
“With a heavy heart, we mourn the demise of Gyalo Thondup, esteemed elder brother of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. His lifelong dedication to the Tibetan cause and his remarkable contributions will be remembered with deep gratitude, inspiring our unwavering pursuit of justice and freedom for Tibet.”
Former Sikyong, Dr. Lobsang Sangayposted on X (formerly twitter):
“I am deeply saddened to hear the demise of Trisur Gyalo Thondup la. He was a patriot who dedicated his whole life for the cause of Tibet. He played an instrumental role during the most difficult phase of Tibetan history. I have had the privilege of meeting him several times and gave me wise and insightful advice. My profound condolences.”
A Nation in Mourning
On 10 February, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) leadership and staff gathered at the Sikyong Hall in Dharamsala, northern India, to offer condolences and honour Gyalo Thondup’s contributions. Officiating Sikyong Tharlam Dolma Changra stated:
“As we embarked on our journey of exile in India following the illegal occupation of our homeland by the PRC, none of us possessed the understanding or resources necessary to sustain ourselves or our struggle in a foreign land. In the face of these formidable challenges, Kalon Trisur Gyalo Thondup devoted himself tirelessly, making significant efforts to garner support from international governments, including those of India and the United States.”
Postponement of Pokhara Lodrik Jampaling Tibetan Settlement’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
In light of this immense loss, the Pokhara Lodrik Jampaling Tibetan Settlement’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, originally planned for 22 and 23 February 2025, have been postponed until after the traditional 49-day mourning period. As a mark of respect and mourning, the Lodrik Jampaling residents will observe a special prayer service on 11 February at 8:00 AM in front of the Kagyur Temple.
A statement from the Lodrik Jampaling Golden Jubilee Celebration Organising Committee:
“We take this moment to acknowledge Kungoe Gyalo Thondup’s immense contributions to Tibet’s cause and his special connection to the Lodrik people. His loss is deeply felt, and our condolences are extended to his family during this difficult time.”
Gyalo Thondup’s unwavering dedication, political acumen, and lifelong sacrifices have left an indelible mark on Tibetan history. His tireless pursuit of Tibetan freedom, identity, and international support will continue to inspire generations.
May his soul find peace, and may his legacy endure.
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Global Alliance for Tibet & Persecuted Minorities (GATPM) 
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