TYC GENERAL SECRETARY MEETING WITH A GROUP OF HIGH-RANKING DELEGATES FROM THE FRENCH SENATE

On April 22nd, 2023, a group of high-ranking delegates from the French Senate met with TYC General Secretary Sonam Tsering along with representatives from three other NGOs in Dharamshala.

The four delegates from the French Senate were Senator Jacqueline Eustache-Brinio, Senator Else Joseph, Senator Olivier Rietmann, and Thierry Munier, a civil servant in the Senate.

The purpose of the visit by the French Senate delegates was indeed to interact with representatives from various Tibetan non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and engage in discussions related to Tibetan issues. The primary goal was to gain a deeper understanding of the concerns, aspirations, and challenges faced by the Tibetan community. In particular, the French Senate delegates aimed to comprehend the role played by the NGOs in the Tibetan freedom movement.

 

TYC GENERAL SECRETARY MEETING WITH DELEGATION FROM AUSTRALIAN PARLIAMENT

On April 19th, 2023, a dinner meeting took place between representatives of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) and a delegation from the Australian Parliament. The TYC General Secretary, Mr. Sonam Tsering, and Joint Secretary, Mr. Tsering Choephel, were among the attendees, along with representatives from other Tibetan non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

The Australian Parliamentary delegation consisted of Sharon Claydon MP, who served as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Senator Janet Elizabeth Rice, Sophie Anna Scamps MP, and Susan Raye Templeman MP.

The purpose of the meeting was to facilitate dialogue and exchange between the representatives of the Tibetan NGOs and the Australian Parliament. Such interactions provide an opportunity for representatives from the Tibetan community to engage with lawmakers and discuss matters of mutual concern, including human rights issues and the situation in Tibet. And such meetings offer a more informal setting for constructive discussions, allowing for a deeper understanding of the Tibetan cause and fostering connections between the Tibetan diaspora and international supporters.

PROTEST AGAINST DEFAMATION CASE AGAINST HH THE DALAI LAMA WITH HIMALAYAN PEOPLE, KACHERI

On April 17th, 2023 Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) in collaboration with student groups from Spiti, Kinnaur, and other Himalayan regions organized a large congregational peace rally from Mcleod Ganj to Dharamshala, Kacheri.  The primary purpose of the rally was to condemn the media for misleading the public and defaming His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

The rally garnered significant support from the local Indians and the followers of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama all around the world. The reason behind this widespread support was a false allegation distributed by the New Delhi Television News outlet, which had caused great distress and anguish within the Buddhist community, especially among Tibetans living both in Tibet and in the diaspora.

During the rally, TYC President Gonpo Dhudup, Shri Ajit Nehria Ji from the Indo-Tibet Friendship Association, Shri Omkar Ji, the mayor of Dharamshala, and a student representative from Spiti addressed the gathered public. Their speeches shed light on the defamatory deception against His Holiness the Dalai Lama by the news media, as well as the role of China in spreading fake news globally through their financial support.

The participants expressed the collective outrage against the media for the false allegations. By highlighting the negative impact of such misinformation on the reputation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, as well as its consequences for the Tibetan and Buddhist communities, the speakers aimed to mobilize public support and demand accountability from the media outlets involved.

The rally provided an opportunity for the participants to stand united against the defamation and to assert their solidarity with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Additionally, it shed light on the influence of external actors, such as China, in spreading false information and manipulating public opinion through financial means.

 

Overall, the congregational peace rally organized by the Tibetan Youth Congress and various Himalayan student groups sought to condemn the media’s misleading actions and raise awareness about the defamatory deception against His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. It aimed to rally support, both locally and internationally, to counter the false allegations and uphold the reputation of His Holiness and the Tibetan community.

TIBETAN NATIONAL UPRISING DAY MARKED BY GLOBAL DEMONSTRATIONS

Tibetan National Uprising Day Marked by Global Demonstrations

On March 10, 2023, Tibetans worldwide came together to commemorate the 64th anniversary of Tibetan National Uprising Day. In Dharamshala, a significant gathering of Tibetans from various states in India and overseas congregated to express their grievances against China’s policies. Five NGOs organized a nationalistic peace march denouncing China’s practices, including the mass collection of Tibetan DNA samples, the sinicization of Tibetan culture, the implementation of massive surveillance systems, the existence of colonial Chinese boarding schools, and the arbitrary imprisonment of Tibetan intellectuals.

The Vice President of the Tibetan Youth Congress, Mr Tashi Targyal delivered a powerful speech at a public gathering, highlighting the crucial need for unity among Tibetans in countering the ongoing atrocities committed by Chinese forces in Tibet.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President emphasized the significance of standing together as a unified front to confront the challenges posed by the Chinese government. The atrocities and human rights violations carried out by Chinese authorities in Tibet have been a grave concern for the Tibetan community, necessitating a strong and united response.

The Vice President’s speech resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and collective action to raise awareness, advocate for human rights, and work towards a resolution for the Tibetan cause. The Tibetan Youth Congress continues to play a vital role in mobilizing Tibetans and raising international awareness about the ongoing situation in Tibet.

 

PROTEST ON VISIT OF CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTER QING GANG AT CHINESE EMBASSY IN NEW DELHI

Prior to the Chinese Foreign Minister Qing Gang’s arrival at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi on February 27, 2023, the activist of Tibetan Youth Congress, Students for a Free Tibet, and the National Democratic Party of Tibet staged a protest.

Tibetan exiles are detained by police during a protest against the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, who is scheduled to participate in G20 foreign ministers’ meeting, near the Chinese embassy in New Delhi, India, March 1, 2023. REUTERS/Amit Dave

During the protest, our activists attempted to impede Qing Gang’s entry, displaying banners with messages such as “Qing Gang, Go Back” and “G20 Protect Tibetan Children.” However, the protest was met with intervention from Indian police constables, resulting in the protesters being restrained, their banners torn, and their calls for attention silenced.

Police detain a Tibetan exile during a protest against the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, who is scheduled to participate in G20 foreign ministers’ meeting, near the Chinese embassy in New Delhi, India, March 1, 2023. REUTERS/Amit Dave

Our activists aimed to draw attention to the demands and concerns regarding Tibet, particularly the well-being and protection of Tibetan children. Later, our protesters were detained in the custody.

TIBETAN NEW YEAR CELEBRATION ORGANIZED BY TIBETAN YOUTH CONGRESS AT TIPA

On the third day of the Tibetan New Year, which coincided with February 23, 2023, the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) organized a grand New Year event to celebrate Losar, the Tibetan New Year. The event took place at the TIPA ground, attracting more than 1000 attendees.

The New Year event aimed to provide a festive and joyful atmosphere for the Tibetan community to celebrate Losar, specifically marking the year of Water-Rabbit according to the Tibetan Calendar. The gathering featured various entertaining activities, including traditional circle dances, games, and musical solo song performances.

By organizing such programs, the Tibetan community in and around Dharamshala can come together to have a joyous Losar celebration even in a distant land.

 

These cultural events play a vital role in maintaining and promoting the rich heritage of Tibet, fostering community spirit, and providing a sense of connection for Tibetans living in the diaspora. The grand TYC Losar event this year has successfully revived and rejuvenated the Losar celebrations earlier organized by the TYC, bringing happiness and a sense of togetherness to the Tibetan community in Dharamshala during this important cultural festival.

 

COMMEMORATE THE 110TH ANNIVERSARY OFTHE 13TH DALAI LAMA’S PROCLAMATION REITERATING TIBET’S INDEPENDENCE

On February 13, 2023, the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) and the Centre for Himalayan Asian Studies and Engagement organized an international webinar to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the 13th Dalai Lama’s proclamation reiterating Tibet’s independence. The webinar aimed to shed light on this significant historical event and its ongoing relevance.

The webinar featured a panel of distinguished speakers who provided insights and expertise on various aspects related to Tibet’s independence and the current situation. The invited speakers included:

 

Lhadon Tethong: Director of Tibet Action Institute. Tethong’s experience and knowledge in Tibet-related activism contributed to the discussions on advocating for Tibetan rights and freedom.

 

Lhagyari Namgyal Dolkar: Member of the Tibetan Parliament. Dolkar’s presence enriched the discussions by providing perspectives from a legislative standpoint and representing the Tibetan community’s interests.

 

Bhuchung Tsering: Interim President of the International Campaign for Tibet. Bhuchung la’s expertise in advocacy work and international engagement added valuable insights to the discussions.

 

Dr. Uwe Meya: Board Member of the GSTF (Global Science and Technology Forum). Dr. Meya’s participation provided insights into the academic and research aspects of Tibet’s independence and its historical significance.

 

Tenzin Zockbeuer: Executive Director of Tibet Initiative Deutschland. Zockbeuer’s involvement shed light on the efforts and initiatives undertaken by the Tibetan diaspora community in Germany.

 

The presence of these speakers allowed for a comprehensive and diverse exploration of His Holiness the 13th Dalai Lama’s proclamation and its impact on Tibet’s struggle for independence. The webinar provided a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering understanding, and generating meaningful discussions on the historical and contemporary aspects of Tibet’s independence movement.

 

GLOBAL WEEK OF ACTION

During the Global Week of Action, which commenced a week ago, various organizations from around the world came together to advocate for a common cause. On February 3, 2023, the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC), along with the Tibetan Women’s Association, National Democratic Party of Tibet, and Students for a Free Tibet, India, joined forces with 120 organizations worldwide in a united Global Week of Action.

The primary demand during this week of action was for the Chinese government to cease its forced collection of DNA from Tibetans. This practice raises concerns about privacy violations, human rights abuses, and the potential misuse of genetic information. By participating in the Global Week of Action, the TYC and other organizations aimed to raise awareness about this issue and apply collective pressure on the Chinese government to halt these actions.

 

The collaboration of these organizations underscores the solidarity and shared commitment among various global entities to protect the rights and dignity of Tibetans. The joint efforts during the Global Week of Action amplify the voices calling for an end to the forced DNA collection and bring attention to the human rights concerns faced by Tibetans under Chinese rule.

NED SENIOR PROGRAM OFFICER PEMA TULOTSANG VISITS AT TYC OFFICE

On February 2, 2023, Pema Tulotsang, Senior Program Officer of the National Endowment for Democracy, visited the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) Central Office. During her visit, she interacted with the President of the Tibetan Youth Congress and meet other executive members of TYC.

The purpose of Pema Tulotsang’s visit was to learn more about the activities and initiatives undertaken by TYC, as well as to understand the organization’s role in advocating for the rights and freedom of Tibetans. The interaction with the TYC leadership provided an opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss ongoing projects.

The National Endowment for Democracy is an organization dedicated to supporting democratic initiatives and promoting human rights globally. Pema Tulotsang’s visit to the TYC Central Office demonstrates the interest and support from external organizations in understanding and engaging with Tibetan youth activism and their efforts in advocating for the Tibetan cause and democracy in exile.

 

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