Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, Sep. 2: 40 councillors from 15 local councils across Taiwan and across party lines announced the formation of the Taiwan City Councillors Network for Tibet pledging solidarity with the Tibetan people and affirming their commitment to democracy, human rights, and freedom on Tuesday in Taipei,Taiwan.
The declaration, announced on Tibetan Democracy Day, said the councillors stand with Tibetans “who continue to face oppression and hardship” and committed to supporting their “struggle for freedom, democracy, and human rights.”
The councillors also highlighted recent messages from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. They welcomed his July 2 statement reaffirming that “there will be a Fifteenth Dalai Lama,” with recognition vested in the Gaden Phodrang Trust, rejecting Chinese government claims to control the succession process.
They further cited his July 5 remarks at a long-life prayer offering, where he assured followers of his good health and ongoing service. The declaration described these words as reassurance for Tibetans and a reminder of the global responsibility to uphold freedom and compassion.
The initiative was coordinated by Tashi Tsering, Secretary-General of the Human Rights Network for Tibet and Taiwan (HRNTT), who spent the past two months meeting councillors across Taiwan. “I’m truly delighted that the Taiwan City Councillors Network for Tibet was established this morning. After the press conference, several councillors expressed their willingness to join, so the network now has over 40 members. Many have also been asking what they can do and how they can learn more about Tibet. This is truly a wonderful beginning,” he said.
At the inaugural meeting, Penpa Tsering, President of the Central Tibetan Administration, delivered a video message congratulating the councillors and urging them to amplify Tibet’s voice internationally. He emphasised that Taiwan and Tibet share common challenges and should work together to advance peace through the Dalai Lama’s Four Basic Principles.
The Taiwan City Councillors Network for Tibet pledged continued cooperation with civil society and international partners to advance the Tibetan cause, defend human rights, and strengthen democratic values.
