European Parliament Resolution Strongly Opposes China’s Attempts to Interfere in the Succession of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama

Brussels, 8 May 2025: In the run up to the 30th anniversary of the enforced disappearance of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama of Tibet, the European Parliament during its plenary in Strasbourg from 5 – 8 May adopted a strong resolution condemning China’s systematic violations of religious freedom in Tibet.

The resolution strongly opposes the Chinese government’s ongoing interference in the selection of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leaders. In particular, it denounces Beijing’s attempts to assert control over the reincarnation and succession of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.

MEPs raise alarm over deteriorating human rights situation in Tibet under the leadership of Xi Jinping and expresses deep concern over the repressive policies aimed at eradicating the distinct identity of the Tibetan people, including through state-run boarding schools. It demands an end to state control over Tibetan religious practices and calls for sanctions against Chinese officials responsible for human rights abuses.

Central to the resolution is the suspicious death of Tulku Hungkar Dorje, a prominent Tibetan Buddhi...