Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, Oct 21: Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the ‘One China’ policy, stating that no anti-China activities will be permitted within Nepalese territory. The declaration came during a high-level meeting at the Prime Minister’s residence in Baluwatar, Kathmandu with Chinese delegation headed by Chen Jining, a member of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee.
During the talks, which focused on strengthening bilateral relations, PM Oli expressed hope for continued Chinese support in Nepal’s economic development. The meeting also explored enhanced collaboration between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist).
The incumbent Prime Minister Oli, who chairs the CPN (UML) and is widely regarded as pro-China, praised Chinese President Xi Jinping’s leadership in the so-called poverty alleviation and development, expressing interest in learning from China’s experiences. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high-level visits between the two nations to strengthen governmental and cultural ties.
However, this growing alliance has raised concerns about its impact on Tibet’s refugee community in Nepal. A December 2023 report by the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy and the Asian Dignity Initiative revealed that Nepal, once a safe haven for Tibetan refugees, has become increasingly restrictive of their basic rights. The report, “Languishing in Limbo: Tibetan Refugees in Nepal,” stated that some refugees now refer to Nepal as “Second Tibet” due to severe restrictions on their freedoms.
The shift in Nepal’s stance toward Tibetan refugees has been attributed to significant geopolitical changes, including Nepal’s 2017 participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The report suggests that Nepal’s economic agreements with China, contingent on adherence to the ‘One China’ policy, have led to increased restrictions on Tibetan refugees’ civil and political rights, including bans on cultural celebrations and commemorations of the Dalai Lama’s birthday.
Nepal’s stance on Tibetan refugee rights came under international scrutiny during the 2021 UN Universal Periodic Review, where the government “noted” (i.e. did not accept) key recommendations regarding Tibetan refugees. These included the registration and verification of all Tibetan refugees, followed by the issuance of identity documents. Lack of documentation is at the root of many of the challenges Tibetan refugees face in Nepal, including lack of access to education, legal work opportunities, or medical and other government services. This lack of legal status leaves them vulnerable to crime and human rights violations with no recourse before the law.
Another recommendation that called on Kathmandu to step up efforts in the fight against segregation and discrimination of ethnic minorities, including Tibetans, did not enjoy the government’s support.
The government also refused to accept two other recommendations that called for the respect of the principle of non-refoulement. Despite evidence to the contrary, in its response to these recommendations, the government claimed it was abiding by this fundamental principle that stipulates no one should be returned to a country where they would face persecution or danger.
Lastly, the Nepalese government did not accept all three recommendations calling for the ratification of the 1951 Refugee Convention, and one recommendation that called for the adoption of national legislation in accordance with international standards on the protection of refugees.
