On February 24, the Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein (TCSL) orchestrated a poignant protest outside the UN headquarters in Geneva, coinciding with the inaugural day of the 58th UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session. Spearheaded by the Tibet Bureau, which represents the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration, the demonstration aimed to spotlight the escalating human rights violations in Tibet under Chinese governance.
During the opening address, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, underscored the crucial necessity of safeguarding human rights and the rule of law to avert future atrocities. Phuntsok Topgyal, the UN Advocacy Officer at the Tibet Bureau in Geneva, voiced the severity of the situation, declaring that the ongoing UNHRC session is vital for discussing these pressing issues.
Topgyal passionately stated, “Today, we stand united not only as Tibetans, but also alongside our Chinese Christian brothers and sisters, in solidarity against the ongoing oppression under the Chinese regime.” He strongly condemned China’s recent claims made at the Munich Security Conference, stating that its domestic policies dramatically contradict their assertions of equality and multipolarity.
The protest drew attention to the persistent repression in Tibet, deepening with troubling reports of Tibetan children being placed in state-run boarding schools, dismantling their cultural identity and language. The state’s iron grip on monasteries and brutal crackdowns on peaceful protests were also highlighted, revealing the extent of religious oppression, particularly against Christians in China.
With over 80 participants, including supportive Chinese Christians and Tibetan activists, the collective called for the international community, especially the European Union, to confront these human rights abuses earnestly. The Tibet Bureau has proactively pursued engagement within the UNHRC’s agenda, submitted written statements, and intends to voice further concerns on China’s ongoing violations throughout the session, which runs until April 4, 2025.
The Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein protested at the UNHRC in Geneva on February 24, highlighting human rights violations in Tibet under Chinese rule. UN High Commissioner Volker Turk emphasised the need for human rights protection. Phuntsok Topgyal condemned China’s contradictory stance on equality and documented severe repression and religious persecution in Tibet. The protest saw participation from over 80 individuals, urging the international community to take action.
The Tibetan community’s protest at the UNHRC underscores a profound call to action against China’s severe human rights violations. With a unified front alongside supportive allies, they urge the international community to confront these abuses decisively. As the UNHRC session continues, the voices of the oppressed echo louder, demanding attention and intervention in the face of deepening injustices in Tibet and beyond.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
