In a powerful demonstration of unity, 28 European nations have voiced their grave concerns regarding human rights violations in Tibet during the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. This collective response, led by Poland’s Miroslaw Broilo, signifies a determined stand against China’s oppressive policies in the region, as reported by Tibet.net.
The involved nations include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. They have conveyed their distress over the ongoing repression of cultural, religious, and political freedoms in Tibet, signalling a united front.
Their statement condemned the “very serious human rights situation in China” and urged Beijing to uphold its obligations to protect human rights. They highlighted specific issues such as the forced boarding school system and suppression of protests against environmentally damaging hydropower projects. Additionally, alarming reports indicated closures of schools where Tibetan language and culture were previously taught, pushing students into state-run alternatives.
Broilo reflected on the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We are concerned about the situation in China, in particular in Tibet and Xinjiang (East Turkistan).” He called for an end to the transnational repression targeting rights defenders and journalists.
Further amplifying these concerns, several nations, including the Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, and Switzerland, presented their own oral statements during the general debate. This further demonstrates their commitment to advocating for the Tibetan people and pressing for international pressure on China.
Thinlay Chukki, representing His Holiness the Dalai Lama, expressed gratitude towards the European nations for their steadfast support, urging China to cease the oppression of the Tibetan populace and allow UN access for human rights assessments.
In Geneva, 28 European countries collectively condemned human rights violations in Tibet during the UN Human Rights Council session. Spearheaded by Poland, the nations highlighted China’s oppression and called for respect for human rights. They denounced forced boarding schools and suppression of ethnic culture, urging China to comply with its international obligations. Individual statements from various countries reiterated solidarity with Tibet.
The joint efforts by European nations at the UN Human Rights Council underscore a crucial movement towards bringing international attention to the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibet. By denouncing China’s oppressive policies and expressing solidarity with the Tibetan people, these nations aim to foster accountability and change. Continuous advocacy and international pressure are essential in the fight for justice and the protection of basic human rights in Tibet.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
