Brussels, 07 May: Merely a week following the European Parliament’s landmark resolution condemning China’s “Ethnic Unity Law” adopted with an overwhelming majority of 439 votes, the Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI) and the Delegation for Relations with the People’s Republic of China (D-CN) convened a joint public hearing to examine the law’s impact on Tibetans, Uyghurs and other targeted groups.

The hearing builds on the momentum of the meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Group for Tibet in the European Parliament held on 17 March, a few days after the PRC adopted the new law.

Chaired by DROI Chair MEP M. Satouri, the session featured a panel consisting of D-CN Chair MEP Eroglu, representatives from the European External Action Service (EEAS) and leading international human rights organisations, as well as expert testimony from academic Charles Brown, a researcher at King’s College London, who provided a scholarly analysis of the legal framework.

MEP E. Eroglu opened the discussion by stating that the “Ethnic Unity Law” places unprecedented pressure on Tibetans and Uyghurs, signalling a dangerous escalation in state-mandated assimilation.

Sarah Brooks, China Director of Amnesty International, cited the organisation’s 2025 annual report to highlight the shrinking space for civil society in China. She warned that the new law would formalise the state’s total control over the cultural and social lives of ethnic minorities.

Tenchoe Gyatso, President of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), participating online from Washington DC, urged EU member states to issue a unified public statement against the law. She also called for the EU to raise Tibet at the highest-level of EU-China relations, appoint an EU Special Representative for Tibetan Affairs mirroring the US and press Beijing to resume the long-stalled Sino-Tibetan negotiations, describing it as the only peaceful way of resolving the Sino-Tibet conflict. 

Charles Brown, a researcher from King’s College London, who also participated online to provide an expert analysis of the “Ethnic Unity Law.” Brown’s academic perspective highlighted how the legislation formalises state control over the cultural and social lives of different groups, aligning with warnings that the law creates a legal framework for intensified and institutionalised assimilation

Representing the EEAS, Nicole Pusterla confirmed that the EU is closely monitoring the law’s implementation. Echoing recent remarks by Commissioner Hadja Lahbib in her post-debate intervention, Pusterla expressed a specific alarm over the law’s potential extraterritorial reach and urged member states to refuse any cooperation that might facilitate its application. She reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to protecting fundamental human rights, including cultural, linguistic, and religious freedoms as enshrined in EU treaties and charters.

During the discussion session, MEP R. Juknevičienė drew parallels between the law and the forced assimilation policies experienced by Lithuania during the Soviet era, stating that she can relate to the dangers such measures pose to minority identities and freedoms.

ECR representative MEP M. Kaminski said the new law demonstrates the authoritarian nature of the Chinese regime, which calls for a proportional response.

Ultimately, the hearing underscores the urgency and the far-reaching consequences of this legislation, which codifies forced assimilation of Tibetans and other groups in utter disregard of China’s own national laws, as well as its obligations under international law, signalling a critical need for a unified European response.

Welcoming this new scrutiny, Rigzin Genkhang, the Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Office of Tibet Brussels, expressed deep gratitude to both the Subcommittee on Human Rights and the Delegations for Relations with the PRC for convening the hearing.

She emphasised that this continued parliamentary oversight is vital to ensure that the landmark EP resolution condemning China’s “Ethnic Unity Law” translates into sustained diplomatic pressure.

The full proceeding is available here.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels

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Brussels, 5 May: Following a decisive European Parliament debate on China’s “Ethnic Unity Law” on 29 April 2026, European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib delivered a powerful post-debate intervention reaffirming the European Union’s unwavering commitment to Tibetan religious freedom.

“The EU remains of the view that the selection of religious leaders should happen without any government interference and in full respect of religious laws,” Commissioner Lahbib stated. Her remarks underscore a unified European position: the succession of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a strictly religious matter that belongs exclusively to the Tibetan Buddhist community, free from state coercion.

This executive stance was reflected in a landmark resolution adopted by the European Parliament on 30 April 2026, condemning the PRC’s “Ethnic Unity Law” with an overwhelming majority of 439 votes.

By aligning the Commission’s diplomatic voice with the Parliament’s legislative mandate, the EU has signalled that the preservation of Tibetan cultural and spiritual identity is a non-negotiable pillar of its foreign policy. This position remains a priority at the highest political levels, including EU-China Summits and the dedicated EU-China Human Rights Dialogue, where the Union continues to challenge any state interference in the sacred process of reincarnation.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels

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When we look at the People’s Republic of China, we are looking at an architecture of censorship that is almost unparalleled. As documented in the newly released 2026 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), China continues to rank near the absolute bottom of the global index at 178th out of 180 countries. Most troubling is the continued deterioration of the environment for independent reporting, reflected in a further decline in its overall score from 14.80 to 13.85 over the past year. It remains one of the world’s most prolific jailers of journalists and heavily relies on state-controlled narratives to maintain a tight grip on information. 

But if China is heavily restricted, Tibet is a complete information black hole for many decades. In Freedom House’s 2026 Freedom in the World report, Tibet scored a zero out of 100 for the third consecutive year—tying it for the absolute lowest score globally. It has a political rights score of -2 out of 40. 

This information blackout is not an accident; it is a deliberate tool used to facilitate and hide human rights abuses. By cutting Tibet off from the outside world—banning foreign journalists, criminalising the sharing of information abroad, and ruthlessly cracking down on VPNs—the Chinese Communist Party ensures there are no witnesses. 

In recent years, there have been zero instances of UN independent researchers, independent news reporters, or international press being allowed to freely and independently investigate or report from within Tibet. Independent reporting is mostly produced by exiled Tibetan journalists, and groups with information being provided, under huge risk of police surveillance and persecution, by the Tibetan sources living inside Tibet. 31 years of continuous denial of the requests for access and an independent visit to Tibet’s Panchen Lama by hundreds of international organisations and leaders is a testament to the information blackout that is typical of the Chinese Communist Party. 

Each year, Tibetans live in fear and self-censorship of their activities, specifically in their communications both online and offline, to not give away any reality on the situation inside Tibet. Tibetans are routinely subjected to arbitrary arrest, incommunicado detention, enforced disappearance and inhumane torture on the false charges of “separatism”, “endangering state security” and “provoking trouble and picking trouble” for communicating with Tibetans and foreigners living outside Tibet and sharing any information on Tibet.  

The Chinese government enforces an absolute blockade on independent reporting in Tibet by mandating restrictive special permits for foreign journalists and routinely denying fact-finding requests from UN human rights experts. As corroborated by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of China, Tibet remains virtually off-limits; the rare access granted consists solely of highly choreographed, state-monitored tours where locals face severe retaliation for interacting with the press. Ultimately, this systematic denial of unfettered access is itself the clearest evidence of severe human rights abuses, proving that a government with nothing to hide would not turn an entire region into an impenetrable information fortress. 

To address the denial of press freedom in China and specifically in Tibet, it is important to look at the legal framework that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) uses to codify censorship. These laws are often written with vague language to allow for broad interpretation, effectively criminalising any reporting that does not align with the state’s narrative.  

The Chinese Communist Party has systematically constructed a legal fortress to eradicate press freedom and enforce an absolute information blackout in Tibet. By weaponising the broad National Security Law and the catch-all criminal charge of ‘picking quarrels and provoking trouble,’ authorities routinely prosecute independent reporting and cultural expression as ‘separatism’ or state subversion. Furthermore, the newly introduced 2026 Cybercrime mandates, coupled with restrictive religious administration measures and aggressive Sinicisation directives, ensure total surveillance of digital communications, mandate CCP ideology in all media, and criminalise contact with the outside world. Ultimately, China has not just suppressed the truth but made it legally prohibited, ensuring that anyone who dares to document reality in Tibet is swiftly disappeared under the guise of national security. 

– Filed by the UN, EU, and the Human Rights Desk, Tibet Advocacy Section, DIIR 

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Dharamshala: His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressed a message to devotees and followers on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima—Vesak—extending his greetings and prayers to the global Buddhist community on the occasion commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Buddha Shakyamuni.

The message reads, “On this auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima — Vesak — which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana of Buddha Shakyamuni, I offer my heartfelt greetings and prayers to every member of our global Buddhist family.

This sacred day reminds us of the light that Shakyamuni Buddha brought into the world more than 2,500 years ago. Though the world has transformed beyond recognition since then, his teachings remain relevant today. His profound insight into dependent arising, and his call to harm no one and to help all beings, remain the most compassionate and practical guide for living in our troubled times.

Whenever I can, I encourage those who consider themselves followers of the Buddha to be 21st-century Buddhists: to discover what the teachings truly mean and to put them into practice. This entails listening and reading, reflecting deeply on what one has heard or read, and making oneself thoroughly familiar with it.

On this joyful celebration of the 2,570th Buddha Jayanti, I offer my greetings to all my Buddhist brothers and sisters. I pray that each of us, by bringing the Buddha’s teachings into our own daily lives, may contribute to creating a happier and more peaceful world.

With my prayers and good wishes”

Dalai Lama

1st May 2026

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Brussels, 30 April: In a resolution adopted on Thursday, the European Parliament strongly condemned the PRC’s “Ethnic Unity Law,” marking a significant escalation in international opposition to Beijing’s policies of forced assimilation. European lawmakers warned that the law, which is set to take effect on 1 July 2026 represents a systematic attempt to erase the cultural, religious and linguistic heritage of the Tibetan people by mandating state ideology and prioritising Mandarin over native languages in all public spheres.

Central to the resolution is a firm rejection of Beijing’s interference in Tibetan spiritual affairs. The Parliament explicitly states that the succession of the Dalai Lama is a strictly religious matter that must be determined exclusively according to Tibetan Buddhist traditions, free from government coercion. Furthermore, the resolution calls for the immediate and unconditional release of high-profile political prisoners, including the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, as well as Choktrul Dorje Ten Rinpoche and Palden Yeshi, whose detentions remain a point of grave international concern.

The European Parliament is also taking concrete steps to protect the Tibetan communities in exile from Beijing’s reach. By highlighting the “extraterritorial” nature of the new law, lawmakers have urged all EU Member States to suspend extradition treaties with China to prevent the transnational repression of Tibetans living abroad. To ensure accountability, the resolution calls for the activation of the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime against the officials responsible for drafting and implementing these repressive policies.

This formal stance, which has been forwarded to the Central Tibetan Administration, signals that the European Union views the preservation of Tibetan identity as a critical condition for its future relationship with China.

In her post-debate intervention Commissioner Hadja Lahbib voiced EU’s grave concern for the human rights situation in Tibet, including restrictions on freedom of religion or belief, preservation of culture and identity and the rights of the religious communities to manage their affairs without interference and to freely choose their religious leaders, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and in full respect of religious norms. She further added that the EU will continue to call for credible information on the whereabouts and wellbeing of the 11th Panchen Lama.

Welcoming the resolution as a clear signal of international solidarity and a reaffirmation of the importance of safeguarding the rights of Tibetan people, Rigzin Genkhang, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Office of Tibet in Brussels, expressed gratitude to the European Parliament for the strong and timely response. She further emphasized that continued international attention is crucial in holding the PRC accountable and in supporting efforts to preserve Tibetan cultural and religious heritage. Representative Genkhang called on other governments and international institutions to follow the European Parliament’s lead in addressing concerns related to China’s “Ethnic Unity Law”.

The adoption of this resolution was largely possible due to the consistent engagement and sustained advocacy by the Office of Tibet in Brussels. This collaboration was highlighted during the debate when a Member of the European Parliament acknowledged their meetings with the Tibetan delegation. These ongoing efforts helped ensure that the concerns of the Tibetan people remained a priority for the European Parliament.

The resolution was adopted by a large majority, with 439 votes in favor, 52 against and 71 abstentions.

– Report filed by Office of Tibet, Brussels 

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Dharamshala: The Tibet Museum of the Central Tibetan Administration, in collaboration with Palpung Sherabling Monastery, organised an exhibition of canonical calligraphy works and a calligraphy workshop to mark International Tibetan Calligraphy Day.

In 2017, a Tibetan scholars’ symposium on calligraphy was held inside Tibet, during which it was officially resolved that 30 April each year would be designated as International Tibetan Calligraphy Day. The selection of this date carries symbolic significance: the Tibetan script consists of four vowels and thirty consonants; accordingly, 30 April—the fourth month and thirtieth day—was chosen to represent these fundamental elements.

The inaugural observance of International Tibetan Calligraphy Day in Dharamshala was graced by Kalon (Minister) Norzin Dolma of the Department of Information and International Relations, accompanied by the department’s Secretary Karma Choeying and Additional Secretary Namgyal Tsewang.

Tenzin Topdhen, Director of The Tibet Museum, introduced the importance of the day in preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Tibetan calligraphy. He also led guests on a tour of the exhibition, which featured various styles of handwritten scripts displayed across the gallery. Among the exhibits were reproductions of calligraphy by the 8th Tai Situpa, Chokyi Jungne (1700–1774), who played a key role in establishing the Derge Parkhang alongside the King of Derge, Tenpa Tsering, in 1729.

The programme included an expert talk by Venerable Karma Wangdak of Palpung Sherabling Monastery, Director of the monastery’s Literature Department. He spoke on the history and evolution of the Tibetan writing system, originally devised by Lopon Thonmi Sambhota in the 7th century, and its later development during the period known as the “Later Flourishing of the Teachings,” following Tibet’s era of fragmentation.

He particularly highlighted the contributions of the Derge Parkhang and Tai Situ Rinpoche Chokyi Jungne in promoting and standardising the Tibetan writing system with the advent of printing technology in Tibet, along with the efforts of other Tibetan scholars and lamas who have played a crucial role in this field.

Later in the afternoon, Jo De Baerdemaeker, an independent Belgian typeface designer and researcher who holds an MA in Typeface Design and was awarded a PhD from the University of Reading, spoke to the gathering about introduction of Tibetan typewriter and Tibetan typeface design. He presented an overview of the history and evolution of Tibetan typewriters and typeface design, tracing developments from the early 18th century in Western contexts to the modern digital fonts and design systems used today.

A few days earlier, Jo De Baerdemaeker also had the opportunity to present his research on Tibetan typewriters and typeface design to His Holiness the Dalai Lama during an audience.

The talk sessions were coordinated by the Curator of The Tibet Museum, Ngawang Dorjee.

On 1 May, the exhibition and calligraphy workshop will be held at the Tsuglagkhang for the general public in Dharamshala as part of the observance.

The occasion, dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Tibetan calligraphy, was also observed with enthusiasm within Tibet.

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Dharamshala: Kalon (Minister) of the Department of Education Tharlam Dolma Changra, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), attended the 25th graduation ceremony of Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies (CHTS) as the chief guest earlier today.

The ceremony was graced by Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche as the special guest. Among other attendees were Secretary Dhondul Dorjee; Chhime Rigzin, Secretary of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama; Geshe Samten Gyatso, Director of the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics (IBD); Passang Tsering, Principal of CHTS Sarah; Vice-Principal Geshe Jigme Lodoe and Carol, the Sponsor of the College’s mess, along with faculty members and students.

The occasion commenced with faculty members, staff, and students lining the main pathway in front of the administration building to accord a ceremonial welcome to the dignitaries, including Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche.

Following a ceremonial offering of a lamp before the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama by the special guest, the assembly recited prayers, including the Praise to Manjushri (known as Gang-lo-ma). The programme then commenced with opening remarks by Principal Passang Tsering, who welcomed the guests and highlighted the significance of the graduation ceremony. This was followed by an address from Geshe Samten Gyatso, Director of the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics (IBD), who spoke on the importance of the occasion.

During the ceremony, Chhime Rigzin, Secretary of the Gaden Phodrang, presented certificates and ceremonial scarves to four student monitors in recognition of their dedicated service to the institution. Certificates were also awarded to graduates of the Institute for Buddhist Dialectics and the Institute for Buddhist Science. Following Secretary Dhondul Dorjee also presented certificates to the 23 graduated students of Sarah College for Higher Tibetan Studies

On the occasion, the chief guest, Education Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra, inaugurated four publications, including the college’s annual magazine, a book, a collection of 15 short stories, and a compilation of three essays authored by Jigme Gyaltsen.

Education Kalon further presented certificates to the graduating students of Sarah College, and Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche presented certificate of Mind & Consciousness course- Lorig to around 90 Vietnamese students.

The Education Kalon further presented certificates to the graduating students of Sarah College, while Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche presented certificates of the Mind & Consciousness (Lorig) course to around 90 Vietnamese students.

Addressing the gathering, special guest of the occasion Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche delivered a keynote speech emphasising the responsibilities of Tibetan youth and the importance of education. He stressed the need to preserve and promote Tibetan language and culture, particularly among the younger generation, underscoring their vital role in safeguarding Tibet’s identity noting language is the lifeline of a people.

Rinpoche briefly recalled the historical contributions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama in preserving and promoting the Tibetan language and culture, highlighting their enduring efforts in ensuring its continuity.

Rinpoche further spoke on the importance of Tibet’s environment, drawing attention to the critical impact of China’s hydroelectric dam projects on the Tibetan plateau and their potential consequences for downstream countries. He urged students to actively study, use, and promote the Tibetan language in their daily lives, emphasising the importance of the mother tongue in maintaining cultural identity. He also noted that today’s youth have greater opportunities compared to earlier generations and encouraged them to make meaningful use of these advantages.

Following the address by the special guest, chief guest Education Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra delivered her remarks, offering guidance to the graduates and attendees. She advised students and staff to uphold truthfulness and integrity in whatever path they pursue, stressing that these values are essential in both personal and professional life.

The Education Kalon further encouraged the graduates to make meaningful contributions to society by applying their knowledge and skills with a strong sense of responsibility. She underscored the importance of preserving Tibetan language and culture, especially in exile, and urged students to remain committed to their identity while embracing modern education. She also called on the students to continue learning and make the most of the opportunities available to them.

Before concluding, she underscored the importance of discipline, dedication, devotion, determination, and adherence to deadlines, referring the advice of Professor Samdhong Rinpoche. She underlined that these values are essential for achieving both academic excellence and personal growth, and encouraged the graduates to carry them forward in their future endeavours.

She further emphasised that consistent effort, a clear sense of purpose, and commitment to one’s responsibilities are key to overcoming challenges. Urging the students to remain focused and resilient, she called on them to uphold these principles as they step into the next phase of their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Vice-Principal Geshe Jigme Lodoe, followed by a group photograph and a celebratory lunch. Educcation Kalon was accompanied by DoE officials, Under Secretary Tenzin Kunchok.

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Dharamshala: Chief Justice Commissioner of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission (CTA), Yeshi Wangmo, visited the Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement on an official trip to attend the 37th birthday celebration of the 11th Panchen Lama, Jetsun Tenzin Gedhun Yeshi Trinley Phuntsok Pal Sangpo, also known as Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery.

On 23 April, the Chief Justice Commissioner arrived at Bengaluru airport, where she was warmly received by representatives of the Cultural Management Office of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery and officials from the two Tibetan settlement offices in Bylakuppe.

Later that evening, she reached the monastery and was welcomed by the Abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, Zeekyab Rinpoche, along with Lugsam Settlement Officer Gelek Jugney; Dekyi Lhasoe Settlement Officer Ngawang Tenzin; Local Tibetan Justice Commissioner for the Southern Region, Phuntsok Palden; and other senior monastery officials. Following the reception, she toured the monastery and paid obeisance at the sacred shrines.

On the morning of 25 April, at around 8:30 am, Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo attended a gathering in the courtyard of the monastery’s main assembly hall, where a juniper smoke offering (sangsol) was performed prior to the birthday celebration of the Panchen Lama. Distinguished guests included Sikyong Penpa Tsering; Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Khenpo Sonam Tenphel; Secretary of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lobsang Jinpa; Abbot Zeekyab Rinpoche; four members of the Tibetan Parliament from the region; and other officials and religious leaders, including staff of the Local Tibetan Justice Commission.

The event commenced with the ceremonial enthronement of a portrait of the 11th Panchen Lama by the distinguished guests. The day’s programme also featured a pictorial exhibition, a display of Tibetan calligraphy by monastery students, and related publications.

On the morning of 26 April, the Chief Justice Commissioner departed for Bengaluru. She was seen off by the Treasurer of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, the Tibetan Settlement Officers of Bylakuppe, and officials from the Local Tibetan Justice Commission.

On 27 April, the Chief Justice Commissioner returned to Dharamshala via Delhi.

-Report filed by TSJC, CTA

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Dharamshala: The Department of Security, Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), organised a two-day “Conclave of Tibetan Freedom Fighters” from 24 to 25 April at the Administrative Training and Welfare Society Centre in Dharamshala. The event aimed to honour and felicitate Tibetan freedom fighters for their lifelong dedication and service, during which they were awarded the Tibet Medal in recognition of their contributions to the Tibetan freedom struggle.

A total of 89 participants attended the conclave, comprising former Tibetan army personnel of independent Tibet, Tibetan resistance fighters, members of the former Lodrik (an organisation formed by former Tibetan guerrilla fighters in 1960), representatives of retired Dhanglob community, former political prisoners, and ex-security personnels of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s residence. The gathering reflected remarkable longevity, with the oldest participant aged 96 and the youngest 27.

The inaugural ceremony began with the ceremonial reception of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s portrait on stage. The chief guest and special guests offered mandala, followed by traditional ritual of invocation by monks of Nechung Monastery and the ceremonial lighting of butter lamps, the singing of Tibetan and Indian national anthems, and the serving of sweet rice and butter tea.

The event was attended by Chief Guest officiating Sikyong Tharlam Dolma Changra (Kalon of the Education Department), and Security Kalon Dolma Gyari. Special guests included Tibetan Justice Commissioners Dawa Phunkyi and Phagpa Tsering, Tibetan Parliamentarian Tenpa Yarphel, secretaries from various CTA departments, Keutsang Rinpoche, representatives from the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and delegates from the three Tibetan traditional provinces.

In her address, Kalon Dolma Gyari highlighted that this first-of-its-kind conclave was organised as part of the celebrations marking His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 90th birth anniversary. She emphasised that the gathering serves as a timely occasion to honour Tibetan freedom fighters and former servicemen who sacrificed for Tibet.

She extended felicitations to several individuals, including former members of the independent Tibet’s army. Among those recognised were Mingur (96), Thubrab (88), and Tashi (84). From Lodrik, four individuals aged 91; Ngawang Tsultrim, Kelsang Tsering, Sonam Tashi, and Pachen were honoured, along with Nyima Tashi (81), a former Dhapon representing the retired Dhanglob community.

Former political prisoners were also acknowledged, including Keutsang Rinpoche, who spent 20 years in Chinese prisons; Jampa Tenzin (12 years); Lobsang Yonten (over 20 years); and Phurba Pon, who endured more than two decades of imprisonment. Others honoured included Diring Ngawang (93), Ani Phuntsok Dolma, and members of the former bodyguards of His Holiness led by Sonam, as well as Ngarong Arti.

Kalon Dolma Gyari underscored that the conclave is a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Tibetan freedom fighters and all those who dedicated their lives to the Tibetan cause. Family members of prominent resistance leaders, including Andruk Tamdin Choekyi, daughter of Andruk Gonpo Tashi, and Tenzing Sonam, son of Lhamo Tsering, were also invited and recognised.

She further noted that during the Chinese occupation of Tibet, Tibetans resisted strongly and refused to surrender. Despite being forced into exile, their resistance continued even after His Holiness the Dalai Lama arrived in India.

Speaking at the event, Andruk Tamdin Choekyi, shared reflections on her late father’s unwavering struggle and called for unity and strength among Tibetans. Tenzing Sonam expressed gratitude to the freedom fighters and paid tribute to Tibetan martyrs, while also screening a video message of his father recorded several years before his passing.

Chief Guest Kalon Tharlam Dolma Changra expressed deep appreciation for the bravery and contributions of the freedom fighters, recalling personal family experiences of resistance during 1959 and honouring the sacrifices of unsung heroes. She echoed the call for unity and resilience among Tibetans.

The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Security Secretary Karma Rinchen, followed by a group photograph of all participants.

Subsequent sessions focused on discussions on preserving the legacy of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and gathering feedback on the work of the Department of Security. On the second day, the conclave concluded with the presentation of a final recommendation report, which was approved by the participants.

During the closing ceremony, special Tibet Medals were awarded to freedom fighters and representatives in recognition of their service. Kalon Dolma Gyari reaffirmed her commitment to incorporating the recommendations into future initiatives in consultation with the Kashag.

She also elaborated on the historical significance of the Tibet Medal, noting its origins in early 20th-century during the British Tibet War medal recognition practices, symbolising Tibet’s independent legacy and honouring those who contributed to its cause.

The event also marked 37th birth anniversary of the 11th Panchen Lama, Jetsun Tenzin Gedhun Yeshi Trinley Phuntsok Pal Sangpo, also known as Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, celebrated with a cake-cutting ceremony and cultural performances by a local dance troupe.

On the morning of 27 April, the participants were granted an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, followed by a brief concluding ceremony of the conclave held in the courtyard of Tsuglagkhang in the presence of Security Kalon Dolma Gyari. The participants were also honoured with ceremonial Khatags by major Tibetan non-governmental organisation. 

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Dharamshala: Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Speaker of the 17th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, attended as special guest at the 37th birth anniversary of the 11th Panchen Lama, Jetsun Tenzin Gedhun Yeshi Trinley Phuntsok Pal Sangpo (Gedhun Choekyi Nyima), held at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, Karnataka, on 25 April 2026. Chief Guest Sikyong Penpa Tsering, alongside special guests Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo, Secretary Lobsang Jinpa of the Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, as well as Tashi Lhunpo Abbot Zeegyab Rinpoche, MP Samten Choedon, MP Ngodup Dorjee, MP Lobsang Gyatso Sither, MP Choephel Thupten, and other dignitaries were also present.

The Speaker described his participation as a meaningful occasion honouring both the 11th Panchen Lama and the legacy of previous Panchen Lamas. He highlighted the longstanding tradition, established since the recognition of the 5th Dalai Lama by the 4th Panchen Lama, of mutual recognition between Dalai Lamas and Panchen Lamas, reflecting their enduring spiritual relationship and shared religious responsibilities.

He emphasised the complementary roles of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who internationalised the Tibetan cause and preserved Tibetan identity in exile, and the 10th Panchen Lama, who worked with in Tibet to protect Tibetan religion, culture, and language during a difficult period. The Speaker noted that the 10th Panchen Lama’s “70,000 Character Petition” detailing Tibetan suffering under Chinese rule led to over nine years of imprisonment. Despite this, he continued his efforts until his sudden and suspicious death in 1989, after which Tibet remained under severe pressure from PRC policies.

Detailing the recognition of the 11th Panchen Lama, the Speaker outlined the traditional process led by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, including prayers, coordination with Jadrel Rinpoche, and adherence to authentic religious procedures. Following the official announcement on 14 May 1995, the recognised Panchen Lama was widely accepted by Buddhists worldwide. However, three days later, Chinese authorities abducted the six-year-old Panchen Lama, along with his family, and placed them in secret detention. For 31 years, no verifiable information about his whereabouts has been made public, leading to global concern and his designation as the world’s youngest political prisoner.

The Speaker further stated that the Chinese government, despite its atheist stance, installed another candidate through the Golden Urn process. Eyewitness testimony from Arjia Rinpoche described the procedure as staged and politically orchestrated. He also cited Drokmi Jampa Lodroe, who later revealed that the process aimed to create a political counterweight rather than serve religious purposes.

Quoting a 1995 statement by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Speaker reiterated concerns over the Panchen Lama’s safety and education and recalled appeals made to governments, religious bodies, and human rights organisations. Despite sustained advocacy by the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, the United Nations, and others, no progress has been achieved.

The Speaker noted inconsistencies in Chinese government statements over time regarding the Panchen Lama’s status, ranging from claims of secrecy for protection (2000) to assertions of normal schooling (2010) and later of higher education and employment (2015 and 2020), all without verifiable evidence. He referenced Voice for the Voiceless, in which His Holiness the Dalai Lama cites sources indicating the Panchen Lama is under house arrest at a military base in mainland China, and urged transparency regarding his condition and whereabouts.

He also highlighted the preservation of Tibetan religion and culture in exile, particularly in settlements like Bylakuppe, made possible through His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s leadership and the support of India. He called on the Tibetan community to remain committed to safeguarding their heritage. Appreciation was expressed to Zeekyab Rinpoche, abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in exile, and emphasis was placed on the continued responsibility of monastic institutions to sustain religious study and practice.

The Speaker concluded with prayers for the release of the 11th Panchen Lama, his return to Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, and his reunion with His Holiness the Dalai Lama for the benefit of Tibetan Buddhism and all beings.

– Filed by Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat

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