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Tibet Highlights
International developments and parliamentary engagement on Tibet, and happenings in Dharamshala.
International Delegations Visit Dharamshala
February 2026
Taiwanese Delegation Visits Tibetan Parliament
A Taiwanese legislative delegation led by Wu Pei-yi, President of the Taiwan Parliamentary Group for Tibet, visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 26 February, meeting the Speaker and Deputy Speaker to discuss issues of mutual interest. The delegation also included Fa Hui Shen, Member of the Legislative Yuan; Chen Chang Lee and Miao Po-ya, Taipei City Councilors; and Tsuni Cheng, Vice President of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy.
March 2026
Central Tibetan Administration Commemorates 67th Tibetan National Uprising Day
The CTA observed the 67th anniversary of the Tibetan National Uprising Day at the Tsuglagkhang courtyard, marking over six decades of resistance against the occupation of Tibet. Chief guests included Prof. Dr Hans-Gert Pöttering, former President of the European Parliament; Senator Jiří Oberfalzer, Vice-President of the Czech Senate; and Michael Brand MP, German Parliamentary State Secretary, joined by Brian Joseph of the National Endowment for Democracy, journalist Cheng Lei, and other international guests.
March 2026
US–China Economic and Security Review Commission Meets Tibetan Parliament’s Speaker and Deputy Speaker
The delegation included Michael Kuiken, Vice Chair for the 2026 Report Cycle; Commissioners Reva Price and Taylor Budowich; Kathleen Hawk, Director of Security and Foreign Affairs; and officials from the US Embassy in New Delhi.
May 2026
UK Parliamentary Delegation Visits Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile
Labour MP Kerry McCarthy and Liberal Democrat MP Wera Hobhouse visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, attending the swearing-in ceremony of Sikyong Penpa Tsering.
May 2026
Deputies of Chile and El Salvador Visit Tibetan Parliament
Deputies Luis Mala Valenzuela of Chile and Jose Francisco Lira Alvarado of El Salvador visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile on 25 May 2026 and met with Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang.
Happenings in Dharamshala
March 2026
More Than 100 Members of Tibet Support Groups Gather for Special International Meeting
Following three days of deliberation on the situation inside Tibet, strategies to counter China’s narratives, and why Tibet matters in the evolving geopolitical landscape, the Special International Tibet Support Groups Meeting concluded on the eve of the 67th anniversary of Tibetan National Uprising Day.
March 2026
The 8th All India Tibet Support Groups Conference Held in Dharamshala
The conference reaffirmed solidarity with the Tibetan people, expressed concern over human rights violations and environmental degradation in Tibet, called for renewed dialogue and recognition of the CTA, rejected Chinese interference in the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation, and resolved to strengthen Tibet advocacy across India through public outreach and youth engagement.
Photo: CTAMarch 2026
His Holiness Attends Long Life Prayers Offered by the All-India Tibet Support Groups
As part of celebrations marking his 90th birthday and the Year of Compassion, more than 400 members of the All-India Tibet Support Groups presented His Holiness with the Karuna Ratna — the Jewel of Compassion, a golden bodhi-leaf bearing the Dharma wheel and teaching mudra — honouring his lifelong dedication to peace and compassion, and reaffirming support for his Four Noble Commitments and Tibet’s freedom.
Photo: dalailama.comMay 2026
Penpa Tsering Sworn In for Second Term as Sikyong
Penpa Tsering was sworn in as Sikyong of the 17th Kashag in the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, following his re-election as the 6th directly elected Sikyong. The ceremony was attended by a cross-party UK parliamentary delegation, parliamentarians from Chile and El Salvador, and Indian representatives including Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao and Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar.
Photo: Tenzin Jigme Taydeh / CTAMay 2026
Members of the 18th Parliament-in-Exile Sworn In
On 31st May, 2026 the newly elected members of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile were sworn in during a ceremony held at the Parliament Hall today at 10:00 a.m., in the presence of Sikyong Penpa Tsering. In accordance with the Charter of Tibetans in Exile, the newly elected parliamentarians took their oath or affirmation of office before Interim Speaker Dawa Tsering. Prior to the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission (TSJC) administered the oath of office to the Interim Speaker at 9:00 a.m.
June 2026
Six Kalons of the 17th Kashag Sworn In
The elected ministers — Tsegyal Chukya Dranyi (Kashag Secretary), Palden Dhondup (Home), Tsering Dhondup Gyangser (Finance), Ugyen Tenzin, Kunga Tashi and Pema Tso — took the oath of office before Yeshi Wangmo, Chief Justice of the Tibetan Supreme Justice Commission.
June 2026
Dolma Tsering Teykhang and Khenpo Sonam Tenphel Elected Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile
In accordance with the rules and regulations of the Tibetan Election Commission, members of the 18th Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile elected Dolma Tsering Teykhang as Speaker and Khenpo Sonam Tenphel as Deputy Speaker through a secret ballot. Dolma Tsering Teykhang was elected Speaker with 22 votes against Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, who received 20 votes. Three ballots were declared invalid. Speaker-elect Dolma Tsering Teykhang and Deputy Speaker-elect Khenpo Sonam Tenphel took their oaths from Chief Justice Commissioner Yeshi Wangmo — Dolma Tsering Teykhang becoming the first woman to serve as Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, having previously served as Deputy Speaker of the 17th Parliament. Khenpo Sonam Tenphel begins his second term as Deputy Speaker, having previously served as Speaker of the 16th and 17th Parliaments.
July 2026
His Holiness Celebrates His 91st Birthday in Leh
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama celebrated his 91st birthday on 6 July 2026 with a grand ceremony at the Shewatsel Teaching Ground in Leh, Ladakh, attended by an estimated 25,000 devotees, with messages of goodwill arriving from India, North America and Europe. Reflecting on the day, His Holiness said: “I’m 91, but according to indications in my dreams it seems I may yet live to be 130. So, I hope to be able to help Chinese people through the teaching of the Buddha, and also to help people around the world to lead good, positive lives. This is what I aspire to do — thank you.”
International Developments & Parliamentary Engagements
January 2026
Sikyong Holds High-Level Engagements in Washington, D.C.
Sikyong Penpa Tsering undertook a series of high-level engagements with leading China and Tibet-focused think tanks and organisations to deepen understanding of the PRC and strengthen coordinated responses to Beijing’s disinformation and narratives on Tibet. Discussions emphasised credible documentation, fact-based advocacy, policy outreach and the importance of rigorous scholarship to counter historical distortions. Accompanied by Representative Namgyal Choedup, Sikyong also met senior representatives of the International Campaign for Tibet and The Tibet Fund.
January 2026
Inter-parliamentary Group for Tibet in the European Parliament Convenes to Chart Year Ahead
The Inter-parliamentary Group for Tibet in the European Parliament met to set priorities for the year ahead and discuss key developments concerning Tibet. Representative Rigzin Genkhang and EU Advocacy Officer Tenzin Phuntsok of the Office of Tibet briefed lawmakers on the Tibetan electoral process and the deteriorating situation of Tibetans in Nepal. The meeting also explored ways to strengthen parliamentary engagement and sustained monitoring of Tibet-related issues, with lawmakers reaffirming their continued support for the Tibetan cause.
February 2026
Australian APPG Meets on Tibet
The Australian All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet met during parliament’s Autumn sitting to chalk out action plans. Senator Barbara Pocock, who recently visited Dharamshala, shared firsthand insights on Tibetan leadership and refugee communities.
April 2026
Czech Senate Passes Historic Tibet Resolution
On 10 April, the Czech Senate passed a resolution directly challenging China’s interference in the Dalai Lama’s succession — one of the most direct European legislative stances on the succession issue to date.
Senator Jitka Svietlova, Vice-President of the Czech Senate, presenting the resolution on 25 March. Photo: Czech Senate webcastMay 2026
European Parliament Condemns China’s Ethnic Unity Law
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. The resolution was adopted by a large majority, with 439 votes in favor, 52 against and 71 abstentions.
May 2026
New US Bipartisan Legislation on the CTA
Congressmen Michael McCaul (R-TX) and Jim McGovern (D-MA) introduced legislation seeking to strengthen America’s formal relationship with the Central Tibetan Administration.
May 2026
EU Pledges to Press Nepal on Tibetan Refugee Rights
The European Union and its partners in the Refugee Core Group are urging Nepal to address the long-standing humanitarian and documentation challenges faced by Tibetan refugees, including through the issuance of Personal Account Number (PAN) cards to facilitate access to banking, employment and administrative services. The EU has also called for protection of Tibetans’ civil, religious and cultural rights, as well as visa waivers and exit permits for refugees resettling in third countries or returning to their countries of origin. These concerns, raised with Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs in late 2025, remain an EU diplomatic priority and are expected to feature prominently in the EU–Nepal Joint Commission in the second half of 2026.
May 2026
Sikyong Penpa Tsering Meets German Parliamentarian and Participates in International Uyghur Forum in Berlin
Sikyong Penpa Tsering met with German Bundestag MP Thomas Rachel to discuss the situation in Tibet, the well-being of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, China’s assimilation policies, restrictions on Tibetan religion, language and culture, and the issue of the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation. He reiterated the Central Tibetan Administration’s commitment to the Middle Way Approach and non-violence. Later, at the International Uyghur Forum, Sikyong called for greater strategic coordination among Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongolians, Hong Kongers and Taiwanese in responding to common challenges posed by Beijing.
1 May 2026
US Senate Bill on China’s Atrocities in Tibet
Senators Jeff Merkley and Rick Scott introduced a bipartisan bill requiring the State Department to formally examine China’s atrocities in Tibet — going a step beyond the existing Resolve Tibet Act.
July 2026
UK All-Party Parliamentary Group on Tibet Condemns China’s ‘Ethnic Unity and Progress Law’ as an Instrument of Forced Assimilation
The UK All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Tibet has strongly condemned the implementation of China’s so-called “Ethnic Unity and Progress Law”, warning that the legislation institutionalises the Chinese government’s policy of forced assimilation and poses serious threats to Tibetans and other ethnic nationalities both within China and beyond its borders. The parliamentary group stated that the law targets not only Tibetans but also Uyghurs, Southern Mongolians and other ethnic nationalities by threatening their languages, cultures, religions and identities. The APPG further raised alarm over the law’s implications beyond China’s borders. It highlighted Article 63 of the legislation, which it said provides a basis for Chinese authorities to target individuals and organisations overseas accused of having “undermined ethnic unity”. According to the group, this raises serious concerns for Tibetans, human rights defenders, researchers, parliamentarians and others in the United Kingdom exercising their fundamental freedoms.
July 2026
German Parliamentary State Secretary Michael Brand Urges Repeal of China’s “Ethnic Unity Law,” Warns of Threat to Tibetan Ancient Cultures
Hon. Michael Brand, Member of the German Parliament and Parliamentary State Secretary to the German Government, has issued a strongly worded video statement condemning China’s new “Ethnic Unity Law.” In his message, he called on people around the world to join the protest and urge China’s leaders to repeal what he described as a racist attack on ancient cultures and peoples. “Like the European Parliament in April and the Czech Senate in March, we categorically condemn this racist legislation. Experts have warned against it, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called for its repeal as recently as June 2026.”
July 2026
States Condemn China’s Human Rights Violations and Raise Alarm Over ‘Ethnic Unity Law’ at the 62nd Session of UNHRC
The United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and the Czech Republic expressed continued concern over the human rights situation in Tibet, East Turkestan and Hong Kong during the 62nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), warning that the law could serve as a mechanism for forced assimilation and further restrict the rights of ethnic and religious minorities.
July 2026
Belgian Foreign Minister Affirms Dalai Lama’s Succession Is Solely a Matter for the Tibetan Buddhist Community
Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation Maxime Prévot reaffirmed that the succession of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is exclusively a matter for the Tibetan Buddhist community and must take place without interference from secular authorities. Responding on behalf of the Belgian Government, Minister Prévot stated unequivocally that “the succession of the Dalai Lama is a matter for the Tibetan community itself, without interference from secular authorities.” He added that he shares the concerns regarding the human rights situation in Tibet, freedom of religion and the cultural rights of the Tibetan people.
July 2026
Statement by Tibet Support Group in Estonian Parliament and the Members of Riigikogu on China’s Law on ‘Ethnic Unity and Progress’
On the occasion of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s 91st birthday celebration, members of the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu), led by Juku-Kalle Raid, Head of the Tibet Support Group in the Estonian Parliament, issued a strong statement expressing solidarity with Tibet and condemning the PRC’s new “Ethnic Unity and Progress Law”. The statement carries the signatures of 51 out of 101 members of the Riigikogu, representing a symbolic majority and demonstrating broad parliamentary support for Tibet. The Estonian Parliament has consistently shown its support and solidarity with Tibet, highlighting concerns regarding Tibet’s historical status and the impact of China’s occupation.
July 2026
Geneva Lawmaker Condemns China’s Ethnic Unity Law as “A Dark Day” for Cultural Diversity
Cedric Jeanneret, Member of the Grand Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, has strongly condemned the entry into force of China’s new Law on Ethnic Unity and Progress, describing 1 July 2026 as “a dark day” for the country’s ethnic minorities and cultural diversity. He warned that the legislation represents a serious assault on the cultural identities and constitutional rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongolians, and other non-Han peoples living under the People’s Republic of China.
July 2026
Belgian Parliament Questions Government on China’s Ethnic Unity Law and Risks of Transnational Repression
During the final meeting of the Belgian Federal Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee before the summer recess, held on 15 July 2026, parliamentarians called on the federal government to take a strong stance against China’s new Ethnic Unity Law, warning that it could further institutionalise the assimilation of ethnic groups and extend repression beyond China’s borders. The MPs expressed serious concern that the legislation provides a legal framework for the continued erosion of the cultural, linguistic and religious rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongols and other groups.
Other News
January 2026
English Translation of “Tibet Was Never Part of China Since Antiquity” Launches
Sikyong attended the launch of Professor Hon-Shiang Lau’s Tibet Was Never Part of China Since Antiquity, published by Optimum Publishing International and drawing on historical records from Chinese official sources. Organised by the National Endowment for Democracy, the event brought together Ambassador Sam Brownback, Bhuchung K. Tsering of ICT and Washington Post columnist Josh Rogin. Sikyong commended the book’s evidence-based approach and highlighted its value, alongside Michael van Walt’s Tibet Brief 2020, in challenging prevailing narratives on Tibet’s historical status.
January 2026
His Holiness the Dalai Lama Addresses Students of Tibet House, New Delhi
237 students of Geshé Dorjee Damdul, Director of Tibet House, New Delhi, attended an audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Drepung Gomang Monastery, Mundgod. The group, comprising more than 100 Indians and participants from several countries, was attending a 10-day retreat on Special Insight organised by Tibet House at the Science and Meditation Centre of Drepung Loseling Monastery, beginning 8 January 2026.
21 January 2026
Shillong Tibetan Settlement Receives Shri Sandesh Meshram as He Concludes Janjagaran Cycle Yatra for Tibet
Sandesh Meshram, Regional Convener of the Core Group for Tibetan Cause–India and a Tibet activist from Nagpur, undertook the 6th Janjagaran Cycle Yatra, “Pedalling for Freedom, Speaking for Tibet,” to raise public awareness about the situation in Tibet. Beginning on 9 December 2025 at Bhumla near the India–Tibet border in Arunachal Pradesh, the Yatra concluded in Shillong on 21 January 2026, covering approximately 2,400 kilometres across Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya. The Yatra also carried added symbolic significance as it coincided with the Year of Compassion.
March 2026
Tsering Dhongthog Becomes First Tibetan-American Deputy Assistant Secretary at the US State Department
Tsering Dhongthog was appointed Deputy Assistant Secretary for Trade Policy and Negotiations at the US Department of State, marking a historic milestone as the first Tibetan-American to hold a senior position within the department.
March 2026
His Holiness the Dalai Lama Endorses His Holiness Pope Leo’s Palm Sunday Appeal, Calls for End to Wars
“I wholeheartedly endorse the powerful appeal for peace made by the Holy Father, Pope Leo, during his Palm Sunday Mass. His call for the laying down of arms and the renunciation of violence resonates deeply with me and reflects a principle at the heart of all the world’s great spiritual traditions. Whether in Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism or other faith traditions, the message is fundamentally one of love, compassion, tolerance and self-discipline. Violence can only perpetuate further violence; it cannot provide a lasting foundation for peace. Enduring solutions to conflicts, including those in the Middle East and between Russia and Ukraine, must ultimately be pursued through dialogue, diplomacy and mutual respect, grounded in the recognition of our shared humanity. I pray and earnestly hope that the violence and conflicts we witness today may come to an end, and that peace may prevail.”
12 March 2026
The New Law on Ethnic Unity
China’s ethnic policy introduced on 12 March 2026, framed around “ethnic unity” and a consolidated national identity, has significant implications for the preservation of Tibetan language, culture and Buddhism. Tibetan is the principal language through which the Kangyur, Tengyur and generations of philosophical, ritual and oral teachings are transmitted, making linguistic preservation central to the continuity of Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Policies including greater reliance on Mandarin in education, state control over religious institutions and reincarnation, and the boarding-school system have raised concerns. The law came into force on 1 July 2026.
April–May 2026
37th Birthday of the 11th Panchen Lama, and 31 Years of Disappearance
The CTA marked the 37th birthday of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima with a month-long awareness campaign, including a pictorial exhibition in Dharamshala, official birthday celebrations at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Bylakuppe, and awareness sessions across Tibetan communities globally.
May 2026
TIPA Showcases Tibetan Cultural Heritage in Vienna
The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) presented a special cultural evening in Vienna, showcasing traditional Tibetan songs and dances to around 40 invited guests, including Austrian supporters of the arts, members of the Tibetan community and young volunteers. TIPA Director Dhondup Tsering introduced the institute’s history and mission and explained the objectives of its European cultural tour, which featured 26 artists from India. The event generated strong appreciation for Tibetan performing arts, with guests expressing interest in supporting TIPA’s participation in major cultural festivals and encouraging greater international visibility and promotion of Tibetan culture.
May 2026
TIPA Successfully Concludes Historic Cultural Performance in Bratislava, Slovakia
The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) presented its first-ever performance in Slovakia at the City Theatre of P.O. Hviezdoslav in Bratislava, attended by more than 200 people, including Slovak political and cultural figures. The 26-member delegation showcased traditional Tibetan songs, dances and a theatre production highlighting the impact of China’s boarding-school policies on Tibetan language, culture and identity, with Slovak subtitles and live interpretation. Organised by the Office of Tibet Geneva with local support, the programme promoted Tibetan cultural heritage while raising awareness in Slovakia about the contemporary situation in Tibet, including through local media interviews with TIPA artists and its director.
May, 2026
Chinese Liaison Officer Sangay Kyab Attends Inauguration of China Democracy Party’s European Headquarter
Sangay Kyab, Chinese Liaison Officer for European countries at the Tibet Bureau in Geneva, attended the inauguration of the China Democracy Party’s European headquarters in London, joining around 100 democracy activists, scholars and supporters. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the Tibetan democratic process in exile and congratulated the Party on strengthening cooperation among Chinese democracy groups. Discussions also emphasised that any meaningful democratic transformation in China must address the political, cultural and linguistic rights of Tibetans and other ethnic minorities, with participants calling for greater research and engagement on these issues.
May 2026
Sikyong Attends US Independence Day Reception in Delhi
At the invitation of US Ambassador Sergio Gor, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, along with Kalon Norzin Dolma and Representative Jigme Jugney, attended the Freedom 250 Independence Day Reception in Delhi alongside delegates from various countries.
June 2026
The 68th Anniversary of Chushi Gangdruk and the 37th Anniversary of the Tiananmen Massacre, Sydney
Dawa Sangmo, Chinese Liaison Officer of the Tibet Information Office, participated in Sydney commemorations marking the 68th anniversary of Chushi Gangdruk and the 37th anniversary of the Tiananmen Massacre, highlighting the organisation’s legacy, China’s continuing Sinicisation policies in Tibet, and the need for greater youth participation in Tibet advocacy. At the Tiananmen commemoration, she expressed solidarity with the pursuit of democracy and constitutional governance in China, recalled the Dalai Lama’s support for the 1989 student movement, and outlined the CTA’s Middle Way Approach as a mutually beneficial resolution to the Sino-Tibetan conflict.
June 2026
Tibetan Activist Released but Remains Under Restrictions
Environmental defender and anti-corruption whistleblower Anya Sengdra was released from Mianyang Prison on 7 February 2026. However the Chinese government continues to restrict his movements, conduct arbitrary phone searches and interrogations, and deny him the right to seek medical treatment without prior government permission.
6 June 2026
Dalai Lama Departs Dharamshala for Medical Treatment
His Holiness the Dalai Lama departed Dharamshala for Delhi to undergo medical treatment on his left knee. Following recovery, he was expected to travel to Ladakh toward the end of June for an extended stay.
July 2026
Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile Advances Tibet Advocacy Campaign During India’s Monsoon Session
Continuing its Tibet advocacy campaign in the Indian capital, the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, led by Deputy Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, met with Indian Union Minister of State and Members of the Parliament on the fourth day of its outreach programme. Divided into two delegations, the Tibetan parliamentary representatives engaged with Indian Union Minister of State and lawmakers to raise awareness about the People’s Republic of China’s Ethnic Unity and Progress Law. They also highlighted the self-immolation protest of Tibetan activist Lobga Rangzen outside the United Nations Headquarters in opposition to the legislation.
2 July 2026
Tibetan Activist Self-immolates Outside the UN in New York
Lobga Rangzen (also known as Lobsang Palden) self-immolated outside the United Nations headquarters in New York, a day after China’s “Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress” went into effect. He is the first Tibetan to self-immolate in the United States, and the 170th to carry out this form of protest — of which 159 have occurred inside Tibet, and 11 in exile, primarily in India and Nepal.
Photo: Lobga Rangzen / Facebook / ReutersJuly 2026
Secretary Jigme Tsering Assumes Charge as the New Representative of Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi
Following the appointment of Secretary Jigme Tsering as the new Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in New Delhi, the formal handover and takeover of responsibilities took place on 28 July 2026 at the Bureau of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, New Delhi.
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