EU-China Dialogue Highlights Tibetan Human Rights Concerns
The 40th EU-China Human Rights Dialogue spotlighted EU criticism of China's human rights practices in Tibet, focusing on issues like the Dalai Lama's succession and the Panchen Lama's whereabouts. The EU urged China to adopt rights-based governance for minority protection, with future dialogue scheduled for 2026 in China.
- Country:
- Belgium
The European Union and China held their 40th Human Rights Dialogue on June 13 in Brussels, where EU representatives voiced strong criticism of China's human rights practices, particularly concerning Tibet, according to a statement from the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).
The EU expressed ongoing concerns about China's involvement in selecting religious leaders, emphasizing adherence to religious customs in the matter of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama's succession, reported the CTA. Furthermore, clarity was sought regarding Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama, who has been missing for three decades after his detention by Chinese authorities in 1995. The EU raised individual cases of Tibetan figures, urging better treatment and the release of imprisoned Tibetan leaders and activists.
Ahead of the talks, a visit to South Tyrol was organized to explore regional autonomy strategies, encouraging China to implement such governance models. Representative Rigzin Genkhang from the Office of Tibet Brussels expressed gratitude for the EU's steadfast stance on Tibetan issues. The dialogue will continue in China in 2026.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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