Tenzin Nyidon
DHARAMSHALA, March 7: The Special International Tibet Support Groups Meeting commenced on Saturday at the Central Tibetan Administration’s (CTA) Sikyong Hall in Dharamshala, bringing together more than 100 delegates from 32 countries to deliberate on strengthening global support for the Tibetan cause.
The gathering, convened by the Core Group for Tibet Cause–India, is a three-day event scheduled from March 7 to 9. It will focus on key issues concerning Tibet, including international advocacy, the future of Tibet support movements, and the need to cultivate a new generation of global supporters.
Speaking to media representatives, Central Tibetan Administration President Penpa Tsering reflected on the long history of Tibet Support Group conferences, noting that the first major gathering was held in Dharamshala in 1989 following the Tibetan uprising of 1987. The Tibetan political leader emphasized that the Tibet movement is currently experiencing a generational transition, as the older generation of supporters who demonstrated remarkable dedication to Tibet and deep reverence for His Holiness the Dalai Lama gradually passes on.
“As that generation fades, we must think seriously about how to cultivate a new generation of supporters,” he said. “If awareness about the Tibetan issue is not spread among younger generations, sustaining global support in the future will become difficult.”
He stressed the importance of engaging not only Tibetan youth but also young people in other communities around the world to ensure long-term awareness and solidarity. “Until the Tibet–China issue is resolved, we must continue strengthening support for Tibet,” he said, adding that Tibetans in exile carry the responsibility of representing Tibetans inside Tibet. “If we fail to nurture a new generation of supporters, sustaining the strategic struggle for Tibet will become increasingly difficult.”
Among the international participants was Australian Senator Janet Rice, also the Co-chair of Australian All-Party Parliamentary Group Tibet who described the gathering as both inspiring and deeply meaningful. Rice acknowledged that the current global situation, marked by conflicts and political tensions, can often lead to feelings of discouragement. However, she emphasized that collective action and solidarity remain vital.
“Coming here reminds us that by working together—collaboratively, cooperatively, and even joyfully—we can continue advocating for justice, no matter how long it takes,” she said. “We will keep going until the Tibetan people are free from oppression, prejudice, and persecution.”
Rinchin Khandu Khrimey, National Convener of the Core Group for Tibetan Cause–India, said invitations had been extended to representatives from 37 countries, with delegates from 32 countries ultimately attending the meeting despite global uncertainties. Khrimey noted that one of the central topics of discussion during the meeting would be China’s interference in the recognition of the Dalai Lama’s future reincarnation.
“The institution of the Dalai Lama is centuries old. It is not merely about a single religious teacher but represents a long-standing spiritual institution of the Tibetan people,” he said. “Therefore, the People’s Republic of China has no authority to interfere in what is purely a religious matter. We strongly condemn any such interference in the reincarnation of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.”
He further said that participants would deliberate on strategies to advance the Middle Way Approach. “Over these three days we will discuss what concrete steps can be taken to move toward an amicable and mutually acceptable solution,” he said, adding that the conference would adopt a declaration outlining the collective position of the participating support groups.
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants unanimously adopted the “Dharamshala Declaration,” reaffirming their solidarity with the Tibetan people and their commitment to supporting Tibet’s struggle for freedom, justice, and the preservation of its distinct national identity. The declaration also welcomed His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s comprehensive statement of July 2, 2025, which clarified that the authority to identify his reincarnation rests exclusively with the Gaden Phodrang Trust in consultation with traditional Tibetan Buddhist authorities.
They called upon governments, international organizations, and civil society groups to formally recognise the CTA as the Tibetan Government in Exile and to engage with it as such. The declaration also renewed calls for the resumption of direct dialogue between representatives of His Holiness the Dalai Lama or the democratically elected Tibetan leadership and the government of the People’s Republic of China, without preconditions.
