Let Us Try To Build A More PeacefulWorld: His Holiness

The Tibet Post Inteternational

In Support of Victims of Torture

RTYC Belgium Cycle Rally Calls For A Free Tibet

Two Men Self Immolate In TriduCounty, Eastern Tibet

Dharamshala: At 3.30 pm on 21st June, two Tibetan menhave self immolated in Dsadhu Village in Tridu countyin Kham region. They been identified as NgawangNorphel (22) and Tenzin Kedhup (24).Norphel originates from Ngaba county in Amdho, north-eastern Tibet, and his father has been identified asLhakpa Dondhup and his mother as Tsering Yangkyi.He moved to Dsadhu village a few years back.Khedhup is from Nyatso Village in Tridu County, Khamregion, eastern Tibet. His father has been identified asLhakdup and his mother as Kyizom. He was a monk inZalkar monastery. He left the monastery in 2006.They called for the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lamato Tibet, Free Tibet and had carried the Tibetan nationalflags. After the immolations, Kedhup was reportedlytaken to Zalkar Monastery and the status of both men

Ngawang Norphel (22) and Tenzin Kedhup (24). Photo: TPI/Sangay

By hamsini hariharan, Tibet Post International

China Holds Military Drills in Tibet

Dharamshala: Chinese army conducted a fire drill in the so calledTibet Autonomous Region (TAR) for anti-tank units. This was inorder to test precision strike capability of the units, according toreports.The so called People's Liberation Army (PLA) organized this drillon the 14th of June according to multiple media reports and theofficial PLA DAILY. This drill has followed a major air drill thathad taken place in March within the Central Tibet.Drills by the Chinese military have been more than frequent inthe Tibetan region over the past year. These drills have had thesole objective of testing the precision strike capability of theirweaponry as well as raising the moral of the Chinese troops.These repeated drills have put India on alert. Analysts within theIndian fraternity feel that China might be preparing for some kindof military strike.In the past week, two men have also self- immolated, bringing astronger Chinese security presence in the Tibetan capital ofLhasa. There have been skewed reasons for the expulsion ofmany Tibetans in the region.The TAR is under the control of the Chinese government and isfighting for independence through a government in exile basedin Dharamshala India. In the past few months the situation hasescalated in almost all parts of Tibet.

Man Arrested for Anti –Chinese Political Activity

Immolations: Expression of Freedom

Sydney: Tibet's exiled political leader Lobsang Sangayon Tuesday said a spate of self-immolations in Chinawas a strong message being sent by oppressed anddesperate people who want to assert their freedom.The Harvard scholar, who was elected prime minister inApril 2011, added he hoped a leadership transition inBeijing this year would bring a "new perspective" onTibet.More than 30 people have set themselves on fire

By: Agence France-Presse

Ex-Greens leader Bob Brown (R) criticised the foreign minister fornot meeting the Tibetan PM (L). Photo: AAP

On Front Page

His Holiness the Dalai Lama speaking in the courtyard of an old restored monastery in Stan Arcangelo, Italy, on June 25, 2012.Photo: Tony Vece

I n t e r n a t i o n a l

Bi-MonthlyB o d - K y i - Cha- Trin Rs.5Vol. 02, Issue 68, 30 june 2012 www.thetibetpost.comA Message For The Voiceless

On Front Page

See Page 4 ...

By: Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Sandhup, an activist in Sertha County of the KanziTibetan Autonomous Region was arrested on the 13th of June afterbeing accused of anti-Chinese political activities. He had been arrestedby the local Chinese police.Sandhup (31) had been arrested accordingto a news bulletin from www.Tibet.net. No details have emerged as tothe reason for his arrest as well as the location of hisimprisonment.Since 2008, many protests have occurred in SerthaCounty. In the last two years, a Chinese crackdown has occurred inthe region and unverified reports of police brutality. A few deathshave been reported with no conclusive evidence.Another Tibetanman Youdrang had also been recently arrested but no informationhas arisen as to his whereabouts and the charges that he is facing.

By: Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: 26th of June marks the 15th anniversaryof the United Nations International Day in Support ofthe Victims of Torture. A commemorative was heldyesterday at 6pm yesterday evening at Tibetan Dayschool. The chief guests were Sonam Choephel securityof the Central Tibetan Administrations Department ofHealth and Dawa, a researcher from the Tibetan centrefor Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD).

By The Tibet Post International

Brussels: RTYC Belgium has organised cycle rally on Sunday, 23June with 39 cyclist start 8:30 am from Antwerpen to brussel which istwo biggest city in Belgium.The purpose of this protest is to show the world that Tibetans are stillsuffering under communist chinese and Tibetans are still continuouslyself immolating in Tibet, calling Returns of His Holiness the DalaiLama and Freedom in Tibet.We are the voice of those poor Tibetan inTibet and we had shown their sacrifice on our way to Brussel bydistributing 200 DVDs to the people we met during our way to brussel.We end our cycling at la bourse, Brussel and at la bourse,we hadorganised mass protest and many Tibetans has joined over there.wehad started our mass protest with other Tibetan and Belgium aroundfor 2 hours.

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RTYC Belgium Cycle Rally Calls For A Free Tibet, Brussels, Belgium,Hune 23 2012. Photo: TPI

See Page 5...

Kedhup requested theTibetan youth not to fight

within Tibet but to stayunited.

“I have only one wish inmy heart. I just wish toraise the prestige of my

people.”

Matera, 25th June 2012: - The spiritual leader of Tibet, HisHoliness the Dalai Lama is in Matera at the invitation of hisfriend and fellow Nobel Peace Laureate, Betty Williams, tosupport her work here to create a City of Peace, a place whererefugees from war, hunger or social, economic, or politicalupheaval can be rehabilitated.Today, she escorted His Holiness to two of the sites where thework is going on. At the first, new buildings are under way andHis Holiness said prayers for the success of the project. Fromthere they drove to the Baronale Palace, Scanzano Jonicowhere they were welcomed by the Mayor and the President ofthe Region and took their seats on a stage overlooking thetown square under the burning sun.In her speech, Betty Williams looked forward to the day whenpeople understand that non-violence is a weapon of the strong.She expressed her appreciation of Aung San Suu Kyi's sayingthat war can be unlearned. She said it is time to listen to whatchildren tell us and learn from them.They were joined on the platform by an old friend of HisHoliness's, Marco Pannella the historic leader of the ItalianRadical Party.His Holiness began his address with his customary greeting,"Brothers and sisters, we are all the same, none of us wantsproblems, we all want to live a peaceful life. And although thatis what we want, we human beings tend to create a lot ofproblems for ourselves. Then, when we encounter thoseproblems, anger develops and overwhelms our mind, whichleads to violence. A good way to counter this and to work fora more peaceful world is to develop concern for others. If wedo that, our anger, jealousy and other destructive emotionswill naturally weaken and diminish."Like anyone else, I toohave the potential for violence; I too have anger in me.However, I try to recall that anger is a destructive emotion. I

remind myself that scientists now say that anger is bad for ourhealth; it eats into our immune system. So, anger destroys ourpeace of mind and our physical health. We shouldn't welcomeit or think of it as natural or as a friend"He explained that weneed to understand how destructive emotions affect us and

constructive emotions can help us, so that we can maintainour peace of mind."People in every part of the world are fed upwith violence; increasingly people are looking for ways to createpeace. Start a project like this and people support it

are undetermined. But some local people have statedthat one of the men have already passed away.20 june 2012 004They are reported to have left a messagestating that they have no ability their culture and religionand economica l ly they cou ld no t con t r ibu te fo rTibetans. They self immolated for the Tibetan people aswell as for the long life of His Holiness the Dalai Lamain the hope that he returns to Tibet. They also requestedthe Tibetan youth not to fight within Tibet, to stay unitedand hold up Tibet's strength for their freedom struggle.The police have reportedly taken over Dsadhu Villageand have shut down all internet cafes.The source of this information, a monk from SeraMonastery in South India told TPI that the informantsin Tibet were keen to spread the news of the selfimmolations wordwide.

By: Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

International Day in Support of Victims of Torture Photo: pema tso

The Tibet Post International 30 June, 2012 DharamshalaTPI NEWS2 INTERNATIONAL

Tibetan Parliament Will Start A World-wide Flame of Truth Relay

By YC. Dhardhowa, The Tibet Post International

His Holiness the 17th Karmapa addressing the Conference. Photo: TPI

Dharamshala: - The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile(TPIE) at a press conference Wednesday, June 27said it has decided to carry out a number of globalmovements, including a worldwide 'Flame of TruthRelay' for the current tense situation in Tibet."Due to grave and worsening situation in Tibet,the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile (TPiE) has decidedto carry out a number of activities as discussedduring its closed door meeting held on 22 March2012. Accordingly on 27 March, the StandingCommittee of the Tibetan Parliament-in-exiledecided on the Flame of Truth Relay as one of itsactivities", according to a report published byCentral Tibetan Administration media; tibet.net."Over the last sixty years since the CommunistChina's brutal occupation of Tibet, Beijing hasnever changed its hard-line policies on Tibet. Thishas resulted in China exploiting not only Tibet'srich natural resources but also to kill, torture,imprisons and harass the Tibetan peoplecontinuously. However, we have held onto to ourunique culture, spiritual tradition and identity tostruggle for the truth.Since 2008 the Chinese security forces haveparticularly cracked down hard on Tibetans leadingto numerous deaths and countless tortures. Thesituation is getting worse each day. Consequently,the Tibetan people have been setting themselveson fire one after another to demand a peacefulresolution of the Tibetan issue, return of HisHoliness the Dalai Lama to Tibet and to let the UNand the international community know about theTibetan people's aspirations and the sorrowshidden deep within their hearts. Tibet today is likehell on earth.Standing in solidarity with the courageous andselfless acts of our brave brothers and sistersinside Tibet and to make world aware of their

Tibet's Political Leader MeetsAustralian Parliamentarians

By Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangay, theelected political leader of Tibet met with members of theAustralian parliament including the current and formerspeakers in the Australian capital of Canberra. This hasbeen great help to the Tibet cause as the AustralianParliament has sent a strong message by meeting theKalon Tripa in numbers.Mr Michael Danby MP, Chairman of the Australian All-Party Parliamentary Group for Tibet gave Dr Sangay awarm welcome. Thirty members from both the housesof parliament came to meet the Kalon Tripa.Among the noteworthy members was Speaker of theHouse Mr Peter Slipper MP, former Speaker of the HouseMr Harry Jenkins, Opposition whip and senior LiberalParty member Mr Warren Entsch, Greens spokespersonon Tibet Senator Sarah Hanson-Young and Mr KenWyatt MP, the first Aboriginal MP and the co-chair ofthe Parliament Tibet Group.The Kalon Tripa has an hour long meeting about thecurrent political climate with China and Tibet as well asChinese leadership. The response from the parliamentarygroup was very positive. They showed a keen interestin the Tibet issue and pressed the Tibetan political leader

...Try To Build A More Peaceful World: His Holiness..... Continues From Front Page

Kalon Tripa with Mr Michael Danby, MP, House Speaker Mr Peter Slipper, MP and former House Speaker Mr HarryJenkins. Photo: tibet.net

His Holiness Begins Italy Visit WithPrayers At Quake-hit City

Milan, 23 June: - The spiritual leader of Tibet, HisHoliness the Dalai Lama to pray at earthquake hitMirandola on 24 June 2012, before visiting in Basilicataand Milan, Italy.His Holiness the Dalai Lama will visit Mirandola in EmiliaRomagna tomorrow morning - 24 June and offer prayersfor those who have died, injured, their families andthousands who have been made homeless.Mirandola is one of the epicentres of the recentearthquakes that struck Emilia Romagna in Italy. Thepowerful earthquake killed at least 17 people, left 200injured and about 14,000 people homeless.When the first earthquake struck Emilia Romagna on 20May, His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote to Prime MinisterMr. Mario Monti to express his sadness at the loss oflives and damages to properties as well as thousands ofpeople directly affected. His Holiness donated US$50,000 to the Italian Red Cross for the Earthquake EmiliaRomagna relief work.His Holiness will stopover for few hours in EmiliaRomagna en-route to Matera, Basilicata Region insouthern Italy, where he will visit the City of Peace forChildren on 25 June founded by the Nobel Peace

spontaneously."He said what we need is vision. Sincethe twentieth century was a period of great bloodshedwe need to find ways of ensuring that the twenty-firstcentury is an era of peace. Even if we are successful,that doesn't mean there will be no problems, but thatwe'll find new ways to deal with them, for this should bea century of dialogue."Instead of this land being used as a dump for nuclearwaste, it is being transformed into a city of peace. Whata wonderful idea? In this part of Italy and in this part ofthe world, this project will be like a seed of peace. Weneed to plant such seeds elsewhere. This is the beginningof a way to create a happier world, something that cannotbe done by passing a UN resolution, but by ordinarypeople becoming involved, by bringing up children tobe peaceful, and equipped for peace. Our need is toeliminate anger, not in some future life, but here andnow in this very life. Let us try to build a more peacefulworld."Betty Williams, who was accompanied by

herdaughter and granddaughter, as well as her sister,invited His Holiness to lunch. Afterwards, the wholeparty drove up to Sant'Arcangelo, location of an oldmonastery that had fallen into disuse and disrepair, whichBetty and her companions have restored. They werereceived by the Bishop of Lageonegro and the Mayor,Domenico Esposito. They visited the monastery'sdelightful church together and then stepped out intothe courtyard where the public were waiting to hearthem speak."How good it is to see so many people from differentbackgrounds here together, smiling! A smile is a modeof expression unique to human beings, a sign of trustand affection that is the basis of friendship. I really enjoythis sign of warmth and hope - wonderful!" were HisHoliness's opening words."Here in the courtyard of this old monastery," hecontinued, "I remain a Buddhist monk. Since the 70s Ihave made it my practice to promote inter-religiousharmony through pilgrimage to different places of

worship. And today I've had the opportunity to stopand pray before the images of Jesus and Mary thatremind us of God's love. I've been very moved.""In conclusion, peace and religious harmony comeabout through taking action, not necessarily throughmaking prayers and good wishes. In order to carryaction out, enthusiasm is very important, and enthusiasmcomes from being clear about our goal and the possibilityof our fulfilling it. Here, we will educate young peopleabout our ultimate goal, peace in the world, and how tofulfil it by cultivating inner peace within themselves.Thank you, that's all."A local priest offered spontaneous words of thanks andappreciation for what is being achieved and the benefitsit is bringing to the community. The local authorityprovided a forestry department helicopter to take HisHoliness back to Matera quickly in the summerheat.Early tomorrow morning he will leave for Milanwhere he is due to visit Ghe Pel Ling and give a talk touniversity students.

to give them more insight into the issue.He proceeded to address the members of the FederalPress Gallery along with Michael Danby and Ken Wyatt.In a speech in the House of Representatives, Danbysaid, "As democrats we should tell the truth, even if it isoften not what some of our trading partners would liketo hear. The truth is the Tibetan people have sufferedenough under 60 years of Chinese oppression. Self-immolation is an act of desperation. It shows the Tibetanpeople are at the end of their rope. In my view, it is an actthat has hardened their resolve for their ultimateautonomy and cultural freedom."Kalon Tripa then took part in a roundtable discussionwith Chinese scholars at the Australian NationalUniversity. He then ended his day by meetingmembers of the Tibetan community.He has been able to meet nearly 45 members ofparliament during his visit to Canberra.Lobsang Sangay has been the head of theCentral Tibetan Administration since August2011. He is making a series of visits to foreigncountries to bring visibility to the Tibet issueand also support.

selfless acts and aspirations, the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile will commence the worldwide Flame of TruthRelay on 6 July, the day on which our beloved spiritualleader His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama wasborn. The relay will begin with following demands:1. The United Nations must discuss the issue ofTibet based on the resolutions that it has passed in1959, 1961 and 1965, and continuously make effortsto fulfil the substance of these resolutions2. An independent international fact-findingdelegations must immediately be sent to investigatethe ongoing crisis in Tibet3. The United Nations must take specialresponsibility to ensure that the basic aspirations of

the Tibetans inside Tibet are fulfilledIn order to meet the terms of these demandshundreds of thousands of signatures will becollected in different countries across the world,including India through which the Flame of Truthwill travel. The historic relay will be concluded on 10December with submission of appeal letters andsignatures simultaneously to the UN Headquartersin New York City, UN Human Rights Council inGeneva and UN information office in New Delhi."The Parliament also has written a letter to the UnitedNations asking it to send an independentinternational fact-finding delegation immediately toinvestigate the ongoing crisis in Tibet.

Today's World Needs More Compassion:

Sogyal RinpocheNew York, June 23: World-renowned Buddhist masterand author of the best-selling book; The Tibetan Bookof Living and Dying, Sogyal Rinpoche gave an exclusivepublic talk and teaching to a gathering of 300 Tibetans,Bhutanese, Sikkimese and other members of Himalayancommunity of New York and New Jersey.Rinpoche's two hour long talk dealt with topics rangingfrom practicing Buddhism in the modern day to heartfeltadvices to the community about practicing loving-kindness and preservation of our traditional culture. Hefurther reiterated the need for more compassion in theworld today.Speaking in both Tibetan and English, the talk was wellreceived by the audience, particularly by the youngeronce. 17 year old Tenzin Pesang, a Tibetan born andbrought up in the US said, "Rinpoche's way of speakingwas so clear and direct and with a great sense of humorthat I really enjoyed the talk and learned a lot."Among the audience was American actor MichaelImperiolli and Prince Palden Namgyal of Sikkim.Organized by VajraTV, a Buddhist Television companybased in New York and supported by individuals fromthe local Tibetan and Himalayan Community, the eventfollowed other talks and teachings in other cities by theBuddhist master on his current US tour.Thupten N Chakrishar, the founder and CEO of VajraTVsaid, " I, along with my co-organizers felt that it wasvery timely and important to invite Sogyal Rinpoche fortwo reasons. Firstly, the Tibetans are passing through avery difficult time as there are self-immolationshappening inside and outside of Tibet.So we felt that it is the right time to seek solace in Dharmaand to harness our strengths to face and encounter thedifficulties that our Tibetan community experiences.Secondly, we wanted to bring the Tibetans and theHimalayan Communities under one roof to enrich and

Sogyal Rinpoche with the event organizers Thupten Chakrishar and Sonam Sherpa. Photo: TPI

strengthen our bonds through Tibetan Buddhismso that we can understand each other better andwork together in creating a very vibrant andgenuinely caring community."Besides theteachings, Sogyal Rinpoche also commented onrecent events in Tibet and of the suffering of theTibetan people inside Tibet. He said, that Tibetansshould not lose hope and not feel dishearteneddespite the suffering.Sogyal Rinpoche has been teaching the Dharma

His Holiness the Dalai Lama is welcomed on June 8, 2011 in Christchurch, New Zealand. The Dalia Lama offeredprayers and spoke to the public today at an open event at Canterbury Arena. The Dalai Lama requested the visit toChristchurch ahead of his Australian tour to see damaged caused by the February earthquake that devastated the city.

(June 7, 2011 - Photo by Martin Hunter/Getty Images AsiaPac)

By Central Tibetan Administration: Tibet Net

Laureate Betty Williams and located in Scanzano Jonicoand Sant'Arcangelo.Basilicata Region's President VitoDe Filippo, Province President Franco Stella and MateraMayor Salvatore Adduce will welcome His Holinessthe Dalai Lama on 24 June evening on arrival in Matera.On 26 June morning, His Holiness the Dalai Lama willarrive in Milan. The Mayor of Milan Mr. Giuliano Pisapiawill receive His Holiness at the City Hall. After theirmeeting, His Holiness the Dalai Lama will be welcomedby Chairman of the Milan City Council Mr Basilio Rizzo.His Holiness will address the City Council.At the invitation of Ghe Pel Ling - Institute for BuddhistTibetan Studies in Milan, His Holiness the Dalai Lamawill give two days teachings on The Three PrincipalAspects of the Path by Tsongkhapa and a public talk:Happiness Beyond Religion in Milan. Tickets (10,000)have been sold out for the public talk and about 8,000tickets for the teachings. For further details visitwww.dalailama-milano2012.org <http://www.dalailama-milano2012.org>Ghe Pel Ling is head by Thamthog Rinpoche, the presentAbbot of Namgyal Monastery in Dharamsala, IndiaHis Holiness the Dalai Lama will return to India on 28June night..

worldwide for over 30 years and is also the founderand spiritual director of Rigpa - a Buddhistorganization with centers in more than 20 countriesthat strive to spread the teachings of the Buddhato the modern world. brought up the current tensesituiation of Lhasa, the capital of Tibet in theCanadian parliament. On June 1st, Peggy Nashhighlighted the issue of the three self immolationsthat took place in May and the brutal securitycrackdown which followed.

By Tibet Post International

30 June, 2012 Dharamshala The Tibet Post InternationalTPI NEWS 3H.H DALAI LAMA

His Holiness the Dalai LamaMeets British Royal Family

By Hamsini, The Tibet Post International

His Holiness the Dalai Lama with Britain’s Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall at Clarence House inLondon, England, on 20 June 2012. Photo: Ian Cumming

Dharamshala: -The spiritual leader of Tibet,His Holiness the Dalai Lama, on his 10 daytrip to Britain met Prince Charles and his wifeCamilla. The Prince of Wales and the Duchessof Cornwall welcomed His Holinesss the DalaiLama at Clarence House. The meeting was aninformal one full of jokes and genuine warmth.His Holiness sang praises of Prince Charleswho he had met four years earlier; 'I alwaysconsider him a very close, best of friends.Right from the beginning, I felt "very niceperson, good human". He (has) proved a verywonderful, sensible, good human being.'While welcoming the Tibetan spiritual leader,Charles I said to have thrown up his arms,and then placed his hands together in a prayersign before hugging the His Holiness andsharing a few words with him.Waiting next to the Prince was his wifeCamilla, The Duchess of Cornwall who kissedthe exiled Buddhist leader before the groupmoved into the house's garden room for theirinformal chat.While the details of their talk have not beenreleased, it is likely they discussed the latest

‘Censorship is Morally Wrong, 1.3 billion ChineseHave the Right To know the Reality’

By His Holiness The Dalai Lama's Office:www.dalailama.com

His Holiness the Dalai Lama being interviewed for the International Network of Street Papers in Inverness,Scotland, on June 23, 2012. Photo/Jeremy Russell/OHHDL

Inverness, Scotland: -The spiritual leader of Tibet,His Holiness the Dalai Lama has said the Chinesegovernment's censorship policy is morally wrong,emphasising that the country's 1.3 billion peoplehave a right to know the reality of their situation.23 June 2012 - A beautiful drive along the RiverTay into the Highlands took His Holiness fromDundee to Inverness today, making a short stop atBlair Castle on the way.After lunch, he gave an interview to theInternational Network of Street Papers, publishersof the magazine known in Britain as The Big Issue,but whose material appears in 122 publications, in40 countries, in 24 languages. He said thathomelessness is a big problem, because it meansyou have no base from which to conduct your life.However, it is human nature to help others whenthey are facing difficulties. He said.Regarding the issue of Tibet, he said, he observedthat totalitarian regimes like China’s have for severaldecades depended far too much on cruelty, so fearand distrust are part of their atmosphere. This iswhy they try to conceal reality. The 1.3 billionChinese have a right to know the reality of theirsituation and they have the ability on that basis tojudge right from wrong. For this reason, censorshipand restricting people’s movements are morallywrong and limit their creativity. This approach isshort-sighted and has to change. Prime MinisterWen Jiabao too has spoken about the need forchange and even democracy in China.His Holiness was welcomed to Inverness byrepresentatives of the Highland Council, theProvost of Inverness and representatives of theInverness Inter Faith group. In the lobby of theEden Court Theatre he met a group of schoolchildren who, emulating the Tibetan tradition hadcreated their own prayer flags. They showed him ashort video of their expedition to fly them from anearby mountain top.Loud and warm applause greeted him as he steppedout onto the stage of the theatre.“Brothers and sisters,” he began “this is the lastengagement of my current visit to Britain. You andI are the same kind of human beings; there are nodifferences between us. Mentally, physically, andemotionally we are the same. Each of us wants tolive a happy life, and each of us has a right to doso.“There’s nothing special about me, I’m the sameas you. Now I’m nearly 77 years old. I lost myfreedom at the age of 16 and lost my country at theage of 24. These days the news from my homeland

H.H. The Dalai Lama Speaks On SecularEthics For the 21st Century

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

London: -19th June 2012, addressing anaudience of thousands from ‘the world's mostfamous stage': the Royal Albert Hall, London,the spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holiness theDalai Lama made a profound impact upon arrivalin the British capital, focusing on the key theme,how real change ‘happens in the heart'.As part of a series of public talks across theUK, His Holiness engagedwarm-heartedly withthe London audience, speaking in depth onsecular ethics for the 21st century. He spokeparticularly on how women have an enormousrole as upcoming leaders; highlighting candidly

His Holiness Meets Nobel PeaceLaureate Aung San Suu Kyi

By Anand Katakam,The Tibet Post Internarional.

is mostly sad. So my life has had its difficulties,but it has still been possible for me to keep mypeace of mind. Every one of you has the potentialtoo to find and keep their peace of mind, which iswhy, whenever I have the opportunity I try to sharewhat I know about how to do it.”He explained how important affection and a calmmind are to us. A calm mind enables us to use ourintelligence properly and affection too is importantbecause it counters anger, hatred and suspicionthat can prevent our minds from functioningclearly. A calm mind is good for our physical health,but it also enables us to see things morerealistically.“Developing concern for others, thinking of themas part of us, brings self-confidence, reduces oursense of suspicion and mistrust, and enables us todevelop a calm mind. This is important, because,while physical comfort does little to dispel mentalsadness, a calm mind can help us cope much betterwith physical discomfort and other problems.”This, His Holiness said, is why we need to paymore attention to our inner values, for in order toreshape our minds, we need to know more abouthow the mind and our emotions work. Too muchattention to material values leaves us not muchdifferent from animals, dependent on sensorypleasure and unable to employ our intelligenceproperly. We are prepared by biological factors to

develop compassion, but by using our intelligencewe can enhance it and extend it to include strangersand even enemies.During a question and answer session after histalk His Holiness was asked about Mahatma Gandhiwhose aphorism “Be the Change You Want to See”continues to inspire young people today. He said,“I never met Mahatma Gandhi in person, althoughI dreamt of doing so. I admire him because he wasa great thinker who put what he thought intopractice. Although he had received a thoroughWestern education as a lawyer, when he returnedto India he dressed and conducted himself like anordinary and traditional Indian. He showed howpowerful change can start with one individual andspread to others.“Lastly, because I leave for Italy tomorrow, I cantell you my problems are with me wherever I goand yours will remain with you. You have to solveand cope with them yourselves. Use yourintelligence and common sense. Don’t be toosensitive, at the sway of various ups and downs.Keep a steady mind and it will become calmer. Thankyou.”When the applause had subsided, the audiencejoined singers on the stage is seeing His Holinessoff with rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne. Inthe street outside, in the gentle Scottish rain, a fullpipe and drum band played him on his way.

situation in Tibet and other spiritual matters.The trio walked around the Clarence Housegardens and met a round 80 of Char les 'household staff who gathered to see HisHoliness.Before leaving he touched foreheads withCamilla. Charles again clasped his hands infront of himself before the royal couplewaved the spiritual leader off.The Tibetan spiritual leader is on a 10-daytour of Britain where he is giving public talks.Before meeting the Prince, the Dalai Lamaaddre s sed r ep re sen t a t i ve s o f d i f f e r en treligions at Westminster Abbey. Accordingto the BBC, the 76-year old urged the spiritualleaders to "work together to serve humanity"."I am quite sure that religions still have animportant role to make a better humanity," hehad said.The day earlier, he met Aung San Suu Kyi,the Burmese leader who had spent twodecades under house a r res t . S ince herinternal exi le she has campaigned for ademocratic Burma and on April 1st of thisyear was able to successfully win a seat inthe lower house of the Burmese parliament.

Dharamshala: The spiritual leader of Tibet, HisHoliness the Dalai Lama and the 'daughter ofBurmese democracy' met in London yesterday,June 19, 2012. The 76-year- old Nobel Peace Prizewinner was holding his annual Buddhist teachingsin the British capital and Aung Sung Suu Kyi wasreturning 'Home'. She made a private visit to HisHoliness the Dalai Lama in the morning.The two Nobel laureates spoke for about half anhour. The Dalai Lama spoke confidently that likeher father she would do humanity a great service.He was quoted saying "I have real admiration foryour courage. I am very happy we've been able tomeet."His Holiness continued onward to theUniversity of Westminster to deliver his CR Parekhlecture. During the lecture he brought about thecontrast in the policies of China and India.

Aung Sun Suu Kyi was travelling to Oxford. It hadbeen where she started her family with her latehusband, Michael Aris. She hadn't been there innearly 24 years. It was a bittersweet occasion asshe was unable to attend his funeral in 1999because of her house arrest.She had been under house arrest within Burma bythe military junta for 15 years. Her victory in theelections in 1990 was considered void by themilitary regime. Since her internal exile she hascampaigned for a democratic Burma and on April1st of this year was able to successfully win a seatin the lower house of the Burmese parliament.Many draw comparisons with the Tibet and Burma.Some have declared Suu Kyi and Dalai Lama aspart of the Trinity which includes Nelson Mandela.Unlike Mandela, they have not been to realize theirgoals as yet.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama addressing an audience of thousands from ‘the world's most famous stage': the RoyalAlbert Hall, London, June 19 2012, Photo: Tenzin Tsephel for the Tibet Post International.

His own mother's kindness and compassion asan example.Aside from the spectacular 19th centurygrandeur of the Royal Albert Hall itself, theaudience were greeted upon their arrival with astunning performance by dancers and musiciansof the Tibetan community in Britain, whowarmed up the stage.The revered leader hadearlier in the day addressed an intimate audienceat Westminster University, re-acquainting withthe Tibetan community based in London.His Holiness was greeted with a standingovation and, before his speech, in an act of

genuine warm-heartedness greeted His friendRichard Moore. As a wonderful example ofcompassion and forgiveness, Moore befriendedthe soldier Charles Innes, who shot him with arubber bullet in Northern Ireland, immediatelyblinding him when he was just aged ten. He hassince set up the organisation ‘Children in theCrossfire', and His Holiness has become thepatron.The Dalai Lama gently guided Moore's handsto his face during the embrace, highlighting theequality the Tibetan leader feels among Hisaudience and fellow people.Dalai-Lama-19-June-2012-tpiTowards the end ofthe speech, His Holiness answered questionsfrom the audience. Upon being asked about howto raise children, His Holiness joked: ‘I thinkyou are asking the wrong man'. He added: ‘Mymother, however, would know very well, if shewere here'.Among interviews for the TPI, members of theTibetan community in Britain highlighted thesuccess and appreciation of His Holiness' visitto Britain, and the engaging talks at both theRoyal Albert Hall and Westminster. Activemembers of the Tibetan community greeted thespeech at Westminster with a banner stating:‘Welcome His Holiness the Dalai Lama'.The event was concluded with a f inalperformance by the musicians and dancers ofthe Tibetan community in Bri tain, whoentertained and endeared the appreciativeaudience.The poignant significance of both Her Majestythe Queens Diamond Jubilee, and the 2012Olympic Games in the capi tal , wasacknowledged by His Holiness. The next leg ofHis visit to Britain will be to Scotland, withpublic ta lks in Edinburgh, Dundee andInverness.

The Tibet Post International 30 June, 2012 DharamshalaTPI NEWS4 SELF-IMMOLATIONS

Latest Self-immolation Protest:65-year-old Tibetan Man Dies

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

New Video Footage of Latest TibetSelf-Immolation Incident

By Central Tibetan Administration: Tibet Net

...Immolations, Expression of Freedom: Tibet’s PoliticalLeader..... Continues From Front Page

Situation Remains Tense AfterSelf-Immolations in Tibet

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Lobsang Sangay, a monk here inIndia, explained that on 20th of June when twomore young men self-immolated in Tibet, NagwangNorphel and Tenzin Kedhup, they were surroundedby many people who looked and did not touchthem out of respect for their protest.The people who were there shouted slogans: longlive His Holiness the Dalai Lama, we want freedomfor Tibet and how they supported the two menwho self-immolated and their demands.One of the men died instantly at the scene and hisbody was taken to a local monastery nearby. Thesecond man, was initially taken to hospital werehe stayed for a few hours and then afterwards hetoo was taken to the same monastery by the monks.

in Tibetan-inhabited areas of China since thestart of March 2011 in protest at what theysay is religious and cultural repression bythe Chinese authorities."It means the situation is not bearable,"Sangay, 43, told the Sydney Morning Heraldon a visit to Australia."It's not just that it's a desperate act, but alsoa political act," he said."Peaceful protests,peace fu l r a l l i e s a r e no t a l l owed . Thestatements they leave behind consistentlysay they want freedom."The se l f - immola t ions a re somehow anassertion of freedom -- 'you can restrain myfreedom but I can choose to die as I want'."China blames spiritual leader the Dalai Lamafor inciting the self-immolations in a bid tosplit Tibet from the rest of the nation, andinsists Tibetans now have better lives due toChinese investment.In an address to the National Press Club,Sangay said the spark for self-immolationswas 2008 anti-government riots in Lhasa --unrest that subsequently spread to otherTibetan-inhabited areas of China."Since then,instead of responding positively or liberally,unfortunately the Chinese government hasclamped down more," he said, adding that the

Dharamshala: On June 20, 2012, two Tibetanmen se l f - immola t ed i n Tr idu , Yushu l :Ngawang Norphe l (age 22) and Tenz inKedhup (age 24). The latter succumbed to hisin ju r i e s on t he s ame day. The fo rmer,Ngawang Norphel, survived and was takento a nearby monastery.The fol lowing graphic video footage ofser iously burned Ngawang Norphel wasrecently obtained by the Central TibetanAdministration, based in India.Despite his heavy injuries, he articulates thereasons for their self-immolation: the survivalof Tibetan culture, language, and identity.The English translation of what is being saidis as follows:The following text is the transcript of anexchange be tween Ngawang Norphe l(attempted to self-immolate on 20 June 2012)and the monk by his side. The person herefers to as ‘Khedup' and ‘Tenzin Khedup' isthe other man who self-immolated with himand died on 20 June 2012.(0:00-0:09) Ngawang Norphel (N.N): Mypeop le have no f r eedom o f l anguage .Everybody is mixing Tibetan and Chinese.(04:02-04:15) N.N: There is no hope of myrecovery. I have only one wish in my heart. Ijust wish to raise the prestige of my people.According to the latest update, NgawangNorphel has s ince been admit ted into a

military hospital in Xining, the provincialcapital of Qinghai Province. The two monkswho were sent from Silkar Monastery to helphim have been forbidden entry into thehospital. They are now said to be at thehospital gate where soldiers stand guard.Tridu, the place where the self-immolationstook place is reported to be under heavy

military surveillance and presence. Friendsand relatives of the two self-immolators aresaid to be taken into police custody forinterrogation. Monks from Silkar monastery,where Ngawang Norphel was tended toimmediately after the self-immolations are alsorepo r t ed t o be unde r heavy po l i cesurveillance and their movements restricted.

Video image, On June 20, 2012, two Tibetan men self-immolated in Tridu, Yushul: Ngawang Norphel (age 22) andTenzin Kedhup (age 24). Photo: TPI

Tibetan capital was essentially closed to theoutside world."The military walk up and downthe streets andthere has been an intensifyingof the campaign to demonise the Dalai Lama,"he said."How would you feel if you reveredsomeone and you were asked to denounceh im by s t and ing on h i s p i c tu re o rbadmouthing him?"These are the reasonswhy T ibe t ans a r e t ak ing t he se d r a s t i cactions."Most of the self-immolations haveoccurred since Sangay was elected, fourmonths before he took off ice to assumepolitical duties being relinquished by theDalai Lama at the head of the India-basedexiled government.Asked if this showed thatTibetans feel more hopelessness as the DalaiLama restricts his political activism,"Most ofthe self-immolations have occurred sinceSangay was elected, four months before hetook office to assume political duties beingrelinquished by the Dalai Lama at the head ofthe India-based exiled government.Asked ift h i s showed tha t T ibe t ans f ee l morehopelessness as the Dalai Lama restricts hispolitical activism, or whether it was an effortto push Sangay to take a harder line againstCh ina , he r ep l i ed : " I t ' s t oo ea r ly t otell ."Sangay added: "We have repeatedly

asked them not to take dras t ic ac t ions ,including self-immolation, but they continueto do so . "Desp i t e Ch ina ' s cons i s t en t lyhardline stance on Tibet, the exiled ministersaid he was hopeful that change could occurwith a new leadership."Given the past 50 yearsof experience, we haven't had much reasonfor optimism, but as a human being I remainhopeful about the new leadership led by XiJ inping ," he sa id .Chinese Pres ident HuJintao, Premier Wen and five other leaders aredue to relinquish their positions on the nine-man Standing Committee at a congress laterth i s year tha t wi l l a l so announce the i rreplacements.Vice President Xi and VicePremier Li Keqiang are expected to be the onlycurrent members of the standing committeewho wi l l s tay onreplac ing Hu and Wenrespectively."Hopefully with new people,there will be a new perspective on Tibet andhopefully we'll have better days ahead," saidSangay.But Xi has previously appeared todash the hopes of anyone hoping for a changeof course from China's leadership.In a speech last year he vowed to f ight"separatist activities" in the region and saidBe i j i ng shou ld " smash any a t t emp t t oundermine stability in Tibet".

After approximately one hour the Chinese policearrived at the monastery and they said to the monksthat they should hand over the man who was stillalive to them for treatment.Firstly, the monks refused the Chinese policedemand, but later the Chinese police talked withthe head of the monastery and after lengthydiscussions they later handed over the man, twomonks decided to go with him to the hospital. Theman is now in the army hospital of Xining citylooked after by the two monks and three policemen.After the self-immolation incident a large numberof Chinese army personnel arrived in ZathokCounty and interrogated the relatives of the twomen and also the two monks who brought them tothe monastery.

Dharamshala: This morning at 6.15 a.m. Tibet time,a sixty five years old Tibetan man, Tamding Thar,self-immolated in front of police station in Tsendhacountry, north-eastern Tibet. In line with other self-immolations the man drank the Kerosene anddoused his body as well and after a few minutes hebecame unconscious. After a prolonged period oftime the police force came and put out the fire onthe man's body.The man who self-immolated was from TangshangLowa village in Tsendha country, in Qinghaiprovince. This morning many local Tibetan peoplewent to the police station after the incident were

the man burned himself and requested that thepolice either release him. Currently many membersof the local community are waiting outside thepolice station in an increasingly tense situation,later it was confirmed that the man had succumbedto his injuries and died.15june2012-002The policesaid that at eleven o'clock this morning they wouldrelease him, but so far they haven't released himand the people of the area do not know if he isalive or dead. Since the incident the area has beensaturated by security forces-military trucks andsoldiers, and they have cracked down on the area,a tactic that the Chinese military are nowincreasingly using after self-immolations in Tibet.

Chinese Authorities Arrest Man inMachu County, North-eastern Tibet

By Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: On 18th of June, Phelden anaccused Tibetan activist was arrested byChinese security forces in Valwen village inMachu Coun ty. He was a r r e s t ed byauthor i t ies who came in four s ta te carssuggesting that he is very much a wantedman.The family wasn ' t informed under whatcha rges he was de t a ined . He has beendetained in Machu County jail since hisarrest.On 20th of June, his family and friendsga the red and dec ided t o app roach t heauthorities to explain why Phelden has beenarrested. His family also concerned about hisphysical condition wished to find out moreabout the situation. Reports suggest that 20people went right to the gates of Manchucounty jail.Chinese authorities let five people from theprotest party into the detention centre. Theaccusation made by the Chinese authoritiesis that Phelden was the leader of the 2008 anti-Chinese protest in Machu County.The Ch inese au tho r i t i e s s a id t ha t t heinves t iga t ion would take one month . I fPhelden was found innocent of the chargeshe would be released.Since 2008, the Chinese government has hada warrant to arrest Phelden (34). He had fledMachu four years ago and has been evadingcapture. He had recently returned home andwas subsequen t ly a r r e s t ed a f t e r h i swhereabouts reached the loca l Chinesepolice.

On 18th of June, Phelden an accused Tibetan activist was arrested by Chinese security forces in Valwen village inMachu County.

30 June, 2012 Dharamshala The Tibet Post InternationalTPI NEWS 5

...International Day in Support ofVictims of Torture

By Hamsini, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: -On 14th April 2012, in Adu villiage inNgaba County had staged aprotested against theChinese Government. They had peacefully prayed forthe martyrs who had self immolated but the policeentered the scene, resulting in arguments between thepolice and the people. As a resort, many Tibetans werearrested but then they were slowly released.Kanyak Tsering and Lobsang Yeshe from KirtiMonastery, Dharamshala spoke to TPI and spoke aboutthe aftermath of the protests.On 2nd January 2012, Phalten, aged 40, was sentencedto 3 years by the community court of Ngaba County.Although the community court said that they wouldcheck his record again, he is still in prison. Phalten'sfamily consists of his wife and four children.On 2nd June, aged 37, from Adu Gyalde village wassentenced to 2 years in prison. The Chinese Government

Tibetan “Flame Of Truth” Relay Held To SeekUN Intervention

INTERNATIONAL

..... Continues From Front Page

Updates On the Aftermath of theAdu protests of April 2012

The movement was organized by a section ofthe Department of Health and Gu Chu Summovement of Tibet. This is the health office'sfirst bit of involvement with the movement.200 people attended the memorial.The speeches k icked off wi th the VicePresident of the Gu Chu Sum movement LukarSham. Since the day was to remind the worldof torture he proceeded to shed light on theChinese methods of torture.He said that the Chinese government hadbeen using electrical torture devices whichinflicted serious wounds on many politicalprisoners. In recent months however theChinese have used forms of torture that didnot leave any visible scars.He was clear in stating that many politicalprisoners were often found dead after theirrelease. The world he felt needed to knowabout these atrocities.He was followed by Sonam Choephel, hehighlighted how the Tibetan health office hashelped with money for political prisoners

since much earl ier, but they didn' t holdceremony on this day.27june 2012-003Hementioned how it was the department's firstventure with the GU CHU SUM movementwhich held this annually. The health officefelt that it is important to be part of themovement.Dawa then gave a speech about the Chinesegovernmental pract ices . Many prisonershave been incarcerated on baseless charges.A performance followed the speeches aboutT ibe t an p ro t e s t s i n T ibe t and a l so thecrackdown by the Chinese authorities. Itpo r t r ayed the t r i a l s t ha t p r i sone r s andprotesters have undergone. They give lifetimesentence for a long time by members of GUCHU SUM movement.sentence for a long timeby members of GU CHU SUM movement.The TCHRD had been prompted many yearsago to bring up this issue. It seems to berelevant more than ever. 40 self-immolationsand coun t ing seem to sugges t t ha t t heinternal strife within Tibet is getting worse.

was constructing a house for every family in the villageand Gurkho and said that they did not want a governmenthouse. When they refused the keys, they were arrested.A third man from Adu village, named Pema, was detainedin Ngaba county for unknown reasons but was notsentenced.A monk from Kirti Monastery, Lobsang Phenchuk, aged29, was sentenced to 8 years in Barkham and has beendenied political rights for an additional four years.Lobsang Phenchuk was arrested on 17th October 2011and his status and reasons for arrest are unknown.On 27th May 2012, two Tibetan men, Dorjee Tseten andDhargye self immolated in front of the Jokhang Temple,Lhasa. Dorjee Tseten passed away while Dhargye wasreportedly taken to the hospital. Dhargye's father wentto Lhasa but was not allowed not meet his son and wasnot even sure if Dhargye was alive or in Lhasa.

Dharamshala, June 28: The "Flame of truth" Relay,an outcome of the discussion held by the TibetanParliament-in-Exile on 22 March 2012, was proposedto seek the United Nation's (UN) interventionregarding the worsening human rights situationinside Tibet.The global torch relay will begin on 6 July, the 77thbirthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama from Leh,Ladakh, (Northern India) and travel acrosshundreds of cities around the world. It will go ontill December 10, World Human Rights Day, withthe submission of appeal letters and thousands ofsignatures simultaneously to the UN Headquartersin New York City, UN Human Rights Council inGeneva and UN information office in New Delhi.The Tibetan parliament on Wednesday issued arelease stating that the Relay will be carried out in"solidarity with the courageous and selfless acts

of our brave brothers and sisters inside Tibet andto make the world aware of their selfless acts andaspirations."The central aim of the Relay and signaturecampaign is to urge the UN to discuss the TibetanHuman Rights issue based on earlier resolutions,send a fact-finding mission to investigate theongoing situation in Tibet, and lastly the for theUN to take special responsibility to ensure thatthe basic aspirations of the Tibetan communityliving within Tibet are fulfilled.The release also stated that since China's invasionof Tibet, Beijing has never changed its hard-linepolicies on Tibet. This has resulted in Chinaexploiting not only Tibet's rich natural resourcesbut, gruesome killing, torture, imprisonment andharassment of the Tibetan people continuously.As a result of the constant torment, "Tibet today,

is like hell on earth."Referring to the ongoing waveof self-immolations within Tibet, the parliament-in-exile said that since 2008, Chinese security forceshave cracked down hard on Tibetans, leading tothe current situation. "As a result of this, theTibetans have been setting themselves on fire todemand a peaceful resolution of the Tibetan issue,return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet andto let the UN and the international community knowabout the Tibetan people's aspirations as well asthe sorrows hidden deep within their hearts."USUndersecretary of State, Maria Otero stated,"Clearly these self-immolations are not onlydesperate acts, but desperate acts born offrustration" rejecting China's notions that theseare works of outcasts or troublemakers and thatthe Dalai Lama and the Tibetan exile groups areencouraging the fiery protests.

By Amanda, The Tibet Post International

ment-in-Exile Karma Yeshi and Pema Jungney at the press conference. Photo: TPIE

UN Human Rights council TakesUp Discussion on Tibet Issue

By Anand Katakam,The Tibet Post Internarional.

Geneva: The UN Human Rights council isholding 20th session in Geneva from 18 Junetill 6 July. This council will discuss on numberof reports submitted by UN Special Proceduremandate holders on thematic and countryvisits.In preparation for the above HRC session,Tibet Bureau had met senior diplomats from14 different countries. They were thoroughlybriefed on the present grim human rightssituation and presented recommendations forconsideration. They all expressed concernover what's happening inside Tibet with nointernational monitoring observer on theground. And also assured their continuedsupport in protecting fundamental rights ofTibetan people.During interactive dialogue with report of theSpecial Rapporteur on the right to freedom ofpeaceful assembly and associa t ion , Mr.Tenzin Samphel KAYTA on behalf of Societyfor Threatened Peoples took the floor andsaid "we welcome the Special Rapporteur onthe right to freedom of peaceful assembly andassociation's report in which he expressesutmost concern on peaceful assemblies thatwere either not allowed or violently dispersedin a number of countries, including China.He further said that the human rights situationin all Tibetan regions have been deterioratingfo l lowing the March 2008 widesp readprotests by Tibetan people. He informed theCouncil that after more than 300 peacefulp ro t e s t s by T ibe t ans , i t ha s now beendocumented that the Chinese authorities hadsentenced over 549 Tibetans from 6 monthsto 20 years imprisonment, 2 executed, 12 givenlife sentence, 5 received suspended deathsentence and many disappeared for takingpart in protest."While referring to the six UN independent

experts' statement in November last year onthe situation at Kirti Monastery and China'sviolent suppression of Tibetan protests inLuhou, Seda and Rangtang, he said manyTibetans including monks and nuns haveresorted to self-immolation protests "callingfor freedom" and "return of the Dalai Lama toTibet".Xinhua news agency reported today that aTibetan herder died and another one wasse r ious ly in ju red a f t e r se l f -burn ing onWednesday in northwest China's QinghaiProvince. So far 41 Tibetan monks, nuns andlaypeople set themselves on fire to protestagainst Chinese repress ive pol ic ies anddemanding their basic rights and over 30 self-immolators reportedly dead.He concluded byrefuting Chinese delegation's statement tolabel Tibetan protests as "criminal" despitep redominan t ly peace fu l . He u rged theChinese authorities to consider appropriateapproach to solve ongoing human rightscrisis by adhering to "seeking truth fromfacts" as advocated by Deng Xiaoping.He called upon the Chinese authorities to"p rov ide a s soon a s pos s ib l e de t a i l edresponses to all the concerns raised in theother communications due to the grave natureof the allegations received with respect of theright to freedom of peaceful assembly and ofassociation to the SR on right to freedom ofpeaceful assembly and association."A Chinese diplomat who reaffirmed the Article35 o f t he Ch inese Cons t i t u t i on wh ichguarantees freedom of speech, of the press,of assembly, of association, of processionand of demonstrat ion for i ts ci t izen. Hechallenged by saying for the past more thanfive decades, the Tibetan people, like theMongolians and Uyghurs and Chinese havestruggled to exercise their rights to freedom

of assembly and of association. This strugglecontinues despite the Chinese authoritiescon t inue t o ba r and r e s t r i c t w i thou thes i ta t ion any form of peacefu l pub l icassembly of dissent. He refer to the last weekinc iden t whe re t housands o f T ibe t ansgathered at the funeral of a Tibetan nomadwho self-immolated on 15 June but Chinaresponded to cremation by displaying forceand deployed more troops. Such action canbe termed provocative and intimidating theTibetan people.He echoed the Special Rapporteur's call forthe Chinese authorities to refrain using forceduring peaceful demonstrations and call uponthe Chinese authorities to positively respondthe Special Rapporteur's request for a visitmade last year.He conc luded by r e fu t i ng Ch inesede lega t ion ' s s ta tement to labe l T ibe tanprotests as "criminal" despite predominantlypeaceful. He urged the Chinese authoritiesto consider appropriate approach to solveongoing human rights crisis by adhering to"seeking truth from facts" as advocated byDeng Xiaoping.UK d ip loma t exp re s sed conce rn ove rsituation in the Kirti monastery stated in thereport of the Special Rapporteur on the rightto f r eedom o f peace fu l a s sembly andassociation.At the side line of this Council session, threeUN NGOs had organized a side event tod i s cus s on t he r ecen t r epo r t o f t heInternational Campaign for Tibet titled "60years of Chinese Misrule - Arguing CulturalGenocide in Tibet.At the request of Tibet Bureau based inGeneva, Four ECOSOS Non-governmentalo rgan i za t i ons had submi t t ed wr i t t enstatements on China 's denial of Tibetanchi ldren 's r ights to educat ion, re l igiousf r eedom, r i gh t t o deve lopmen t s andsuppression of freedom of expression e.g.,attacks on Tibetan intellectuals to the 20thsession of the UN Human Rights Council'sattention and necessary action.

Tenzin Samphel Kayta from The UN Human Rights Council at their 20th session held in Geneva from 18 June till6 July. Photo: tibet.net

The Tibet Post International 30 June, 2012 DharamshalaTPI NEWS6

His Holiness The Dalai LamaGives aTalk To The Youth of

Britain

By James Dunn, The Tibet Post International

Manchester: The spiritual leader of Tibet, HisHoliness the Dalai Lama Saturday, June 16 hosted afree event for anyone under 25, in Manchester, aimedat inspiring the next generation to make an impact.The talk, entitled 'Stand up and be the change',covered many topics ranging from forgiveness totruth.The event was compered by controversial Britishcomedian, Russell Brand, which had raised manyconcerns prior to the event. Mr Brand, well knownfor his drug addiction and sexual exploits, shruggedoff the sceptics and provided humour and intellectin a side of Russell Brand not many people of theworld have seen.There were videos provided by Rigoberta Menchúand Desmond Tutu, two fellow Nobel PeaceLaureates as well as a collection of short clipsprovided by celebrities reiterating the theme of theaddress, to be the change.The Dalai Lama began this series of addresses underthe title of, Century of Dialogue, in Manchesterbecause of what he and his officials had seenfollowing the riots that took place in the town lastsummer. He stated that the clean up by people ofsimilar of age to those who had caused so muchdevastation was very moving.His Holiness reiteratedhis retirement from political aspects of Tibet andslowing down of his attendance at events, "The 21st

London Visit Brings up Memories OfTibet-Britain Historical Ties

Dharamshala: The spiritual leader of Tibet, His Holinessthe Dalai Lama's visit the Westminster Abbey in Londonyesterday brought memories of Tibet's historical tieswith Britain before it was invaded by the People'sRepublic of China.Welcoming him to the Jerusalem Chamber, the VeryReverend John R Hall, the Dean, commented on the richhistory of the room itself. It was a significant locationfor His Holiness to meet British people who had livedand worked in Tibet prior to the Chinese invasion. Theson of Robert Ford, the radio operator who served inKham and was later imprisoned by the Chinese, read amessage from his father who was indisposed. He spokeof being a witness to a free Tibet, a country the size ofFrance and Germany, an independent country with itsown government, language, customs and way of life.He said the Tibetans he encountered were honest, gentleand joyful, devoted to their religion and to their leaderHis Holiness the Dalai Lama.His Holiness recalled that on his first visit to Europe in1973 he had been impressed to discover people inEngland who could speak a little Tibetan, which he tookas evidence of the links that had existed between Tibetand Great Britain. These were people who as a result oftheir stay there understood what Tibet was. He said, "Iam very happy to be here. Our struggle is between thepower of truth and justice and the power of the gun. Inthe short term the power of the gun seems stronger, butin the long term the power of truth will prevail. We aredetermined that our struggle remains non-violent andas a result we have a strong base of support and solidarityhere and in other countries, and even among increasingnumbers of informed Chinese."Please keep Tibet in yourthoughts and tell other people what you know aboutTibet, her people and environment" His Holiness said.Later, the Speaker of the House of Commons, John

EXILE

China's Pressures: Scotland’s First

Minister Will Meet His Holiness?

By Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: Alex Salmond, the First Minister ofScotland has been urged by many to meet HisHoliness the Dalai Lama on his visit to Edinburgh.Edinburgh is the second stop on the Dalai Lama'sten day visit to Britain. There have been no formalplans for Mr. Salmond meeting the spiritual leader.The strong reasoning for the both parties to meetis because of the growing tension with China.Foreign policy experts claim that western supportcould dampen Chinese aggression.Tibetans living in Scotland have appealed to MrSalmond saying that he try enforce Scotland's

Alex Salmond, the First Minister of Scotland

European Union Calls Upon China To RespectHuman Rights In Tibet

Dharamshala: The final debate in the EuropeanParliament's plenary session on Tuesday the 12th ofJune was the current situation in Tibet. The EuropeanUnion (EU) has expressed a concern with the growingunrest and the frequency of cases of self-immolation inthe past few months. This has come under the EU radarmainly because of the closure of Lhasa to tourists andforeigners.Lady Ashton, Vice-President of the EuropeanCommission of the Union for Foreign Affairs andSecurity Policy made a statement with regard to the self-immolations. She revealed that the EU was veryconcerned about the arrests and detentions which havebeen taking place in the TAR area, moreover theincarceration of many eminent Tibetans.She said thatthe commission has become worried over the settlementpolicy of the Tibetan nomads. The commission has feltthe traditional culture of Tibet diminish with theseresettlement issues caused by the governing body ofthe TAR. "We are concerned by the compulsoryresettlement of all nomads which has the potential todestroy the distinctive Tibetan culture and identity."Shefurther stated that the compulsory usage of Mandarinas the medium of instruction in schools would beextremely detrimental against preserving the Tibetanlanguage.The commission in a statement to Chineseauthorities urged a need to respect the Tibetans andtheir cultural practices, as well as a need to maintaingood Sino-Tibetan relationsFollowing these statementsby the Commission, Thomas Mann, President of theTibet Intergroup in the European Parliament said thatthe EU should have a spokesperson for Tibetan affairs.He wished that from these discussions, support couldbe drawn from the rest of the Union.MEP KristinaOjuland said that the EU council on human rights should

By Anand Katakam, The Tibet Post International

John Bercow, the Speaker of the House of Commons, welcomes His Holiness the Dalai Lama to the Houses ofParliament, London, UK. Also seen in the picture is Tibetan Parliament Speaker Penpa Tsering (1st right in second

row)/Photo/Ian Cumming / Office of Tibet

Bercow, hosted a lunch for His Holiness and he escortedhim to the Speakers quarters, passing through thearches, corridors and yards of the Palace of Westminster,greeting parliamentary colleagues on the way. HisHoliness said, "It is indeed a great honour for me toreceive such a warm welcome here in Britain which hashad historical links with Tibet. Thank you."Addressing the All Party Parliamentary Group on Foodand Agriculture His Holiness mentioned the importancenot only of food for the body, but also of food for themind. He explained that if our minds are disturbed,

material comfort does little to put us at ease, but ifwe face physical hardship with a calm and peacefulmind we can easily cope and overcome it. Heelaborated his concern to find ways to foster a truesense of inner values, secular ethics, appropriate tothe twenty-first century and the interdependentworld in which we live.From the Houses of Parliament, His Holiness droveto Clarence House to a private meeting with HRHthe Prince of Wales, where they had a warmconversation about matters of mutual concern.

stand on human rights. The Scottish LiberalDemocrat Leader Willie Rennie felt that "Thesuspicion is growing that the First Minister hasbeen nobbled or gagged by China."It has also beenstated that the Dalai Lama is no longer politicallyactive and has relinquished that role.The Dalai Lama is set to meet Lord Provost DonaldWilson and give a lecture at the Usher Hall. He willmeet other leaders at the Scottish Parliament.Alex Salmond is currently Scotland's First Minister.He has been in office since May 2007 and is alsothe leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP).

His Holiness the Dalai Lama speaking to over 10,000 strong audience at the Youth event "Stand Up and Be theChnage " in Manchester, England, on June 16, 2012. Photo: Jeremy Russell/OHHDL

Century belongs to you"."My generation belongs to the 20th Century, it hasalready gone so my generation are ready to say byebye,” he added.Jack Ellis, a 18 year old student from Manchestertold TPI, “I hadn’t heard about Tibet or the DalaiLama before today, it was a free event so I thought Ishould come”.Adding, “I brought one of his books at the end andtook a lot of what he said to heart, it was powerfulstuff”.The talk was aimed at the under 25 years olds andHis Holiness referred in part to his experiences fromwhen he was of a similar age to those he wasaddressing, "At the age of 16 I lost my freedom. Atthe age of 24 I lost my own country. During these 50or 60 years I have faced a lot of problems but I nevergive up hope. Hope based on truth, hope based onreason."Russell Brand, who has been a long-termsupporter of the Tibetan cause, concluded the talkby thanking His Holiness, "I have found it veryinspiring and helpful," he said. "We need to lookwithin ourselves."His Holiness the Dalai Lama willalso address young audiences at the University ofWestminster, the London School of Economics andPolitical Science, Edinburgh Usher Hall, Caird Hallin Dundee and the Eden Court Theatre in Invernessduring his 10-day tour of Britain.

European Parliament. Photo: File

try move from rhetoric and dialogue to a genuinecommitment within the Tibetan issue. She madesuggestions that special posts should be appointed inorder to create constructive dialogue with the PeoplesRepublic of China and the Central TibetanAdministration.MEP Ana Gomes was more critical ofChina and felt as it was a permanent member of the UNSecurity Council it was duty bound to respect the humanrights of the people of Tibet. She felt that the closure ofTibet to outsiders was a reflection of China's continuingpoor policy on Tibet. She raised the issues of thewhereabouts of the Panchen Lama and the political

climate within Tibet.MEP Eva Lichtenberger did not takean aggressive stand however she touched upon theworsening condition of the Tibetan people and theaggressive retorts by the Chinese when they were underany international pressure. The resettlement of theTibetan nomads not only had a politicalramification but an ecological impact as well.Theplenary session concluded after the words of theirmembers. The High Representative thanked itsmembers and has decided to raise the issue at allimportant political forums where the issue wouldbe applicable.

The Skaters At Berlin Show Off Their Skills In SupportOf The Tibetan Cause

Berlin: On June 17 2012, Berlin saw Germany'sfirst and largest skateboard-demonstration.Around 300 skaters jumped on their boards insupport of the rights of the Tibetan people."With FreeRide Berlin, our intention was to usethe passion for our sport to serve a goodcause", said Tubbs Oparaugo who initiated theproject. "These days young people are far frombeing apolitical, they just use different and newways to express themselves".The organizers said they chose Tibet as thisyear's cause because the human rights situationthere had been deteriorating in recent years.The Skater-Demonstration's 8-kilometer-longcircuit set off at 3pm from Berlin's famous

Hundreds of Tibetans and supporters in Berlin, thecapital of Germany participating in a mass

demonstration, 17th June 2012. Photo: TPI

By Hamsini H, Tibet Post International

Alexanderplatz and passed by the BrandenburgGate. Around 5pm, there was a concert withbands and DJ's from Berlin and a Graffiti-

Spraying-Action in Alexanderplatz."FreeRide Berlin is a great example of howyoung people continue to fight for the rights ofthe Tibetan people", said Tsewang Norbu,board-member of Tibet Initiative Germany (TID)."The skaters' commitment is a long-standingtradit ion with the world-famous TibetanFreedom Concerts of the 1990s." Back thenfamous bands and artists had played a hugepart in ensuring that commitment for Tibetbecame a part of popular youth culture.FreeRide Berlin was founded in 2011 to bringat tent ion to social and pol i t ical i l ls .Skateboarding as an expression of freedom andurbanity can become a symbol of support forthose whose voices and cultures are beingsuppressed.

By Central Tibetan Administration: Tibet Net

30 June, 2012 Dharamshala The Tibet Post InternationalTPI NEWS 7

Parliamentary Solidarity Day forTibet in Hong Kong

By Anand Katakam,The Tibet Post Internarional.

Dharamshala: Today evening in Hong Kongthe United Nations for a Free Tibet (UNFFT)will gather with representatives from Vietnam,China and other nations to show solidarity inthe action of a "Parliamentary Solidarity Dayfor Tibet".Members of the UNFFT will gather in front ofthe Chinese Liaison office to protest againstthe deepening crisis within Tibet.With the cases of self-immolation becominginc rea s ing ly f r equen t , t he UNFFT hasdeclared that China has put a security blanketover Tibet. It is still unknown the actions ofthe Chinese authorities but telephone andinternet access seem to have been cut off inareas where protestors have been killed.The appeal by the Parliamentarians is for alltheir counterparts from around the world totake action on Tibet. The organization has

Brazilian Parliamentary Friends of Tibet:Formally Launched

Central Tibetan Administration Media: Tibet Net

INTERNATIONAL

Mr Walter Feldman meeting with His Holiness the Dalai lama in 2006. Photo: TPI

First Exile Conference for IndependentTibet Held In Dharamshala

By Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Special Envoy Gyari Lodi and Envoy KelsangGyaltsen.Photo:TPI

Dharamshala, June 27: The first exiledTibetan Conference for an independent Tibetheld at the hall of Library of Tibetan Worksand Archives , Dharamshala , Ind ia . Theconference was coordinated by four Tibetanswho are working in different field; DorjeeTseten, director of Students For Free Tibet -Ind ia (SFT-Ind ia ) and Tenz in Tsondue ,president of regional Tibetan Youth CongressDharamshala, Shigsa Rinpoche, editor ofwoekar; a Tibetan langauage website andChoenyi Woeser, assistant-Editor of TheTibet Express. The one-day meeting willconclude with a press statement this evening.At the meeting the main speakers were SonamTopgyal, former Kalon Tripa of the CentralTibetan Administration, Jamyang Norbu,eminent writer and Lhasam Tsering, freedomfighter. All are appealing for an independentTibet. Around 100 people from different partsof the world have attended the meeting.Around 10 members of the Tibetan Parliamentin exile and some journalists also attendedthe one-day historical conference.Attendees were being asked to conformrather than truly discuss with main topics andarticulate their new ideas for the independentstruggle.

Eighth Annual Conference of TibetanSettlement Officers Begins

By Tibetan Official Media: Tibet.Net

Dharamshala: The 8th annual conference of the Tibetansettlement officers organised by the Central TibetanAdministration's Department of Home began today. 41settlement officers and 3 co-ordinators from Tibetansettlements in India and Nepal are attending the four-day conference in Dharamshala.Home Secretary Sonam Topgyal Khorlatsang said theconference would take up discussions on a wide-rangeof issues, which include how to sustain Tibetancommunity in exile; make Tibetan settlements self-reliant;protect and preserve lands legally-owned by thesettlements; formulate an all-round sustainabledevelopment projects; and promote harmoniousrelationship with the Indian community.In his opening address, Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangayurged the settlement officers to make a concerted effortto build sustainable Tibetan settlements in exile in casethe issue of Tibet remained unresolved for another fiftyyears.Kalon Tripa urged the settlement officers and thegeneral public to shoulder greater responsibility towardsmaking our community self-reliant and developingsustainable projects based on Kashag's guidingprinciples of self-reliance and innovation."Even after achieving freedom, people in Africa still facesproblems as they could not ulitise their resources dueto their failure to remove their dependencey mindset. Inour case, we are afflicted by dependency syndromeand it is undermining the courage, determination andcreativity of our present and future generations. I noticedthe negative impacts of such mindset on the youngergeneration during my recent visits to the Tibetansettlements," Kalon Tripa said. "For the long-terminterest of our cause, we must strive to become self-reliant and nurture this mindset in the mind of ourposterity," he added.Kalon Tripa also underlined the political implication ofCentral Tibetan Administration'sperformance in the nextfive years. "Having confidence in the present Tibetangeneration, His Holiness the Dalai Lama devolved hispolitical powers to the democratically-elected Tibetanleadership. As the world particularly China, is watchingour performance, we have to demonstrate to the world,including China, that we are capable of fulfiling thevisions of His Holiness the Dalai Lama," he said.Kalon Tripa also announced the Kashag's plans toorganise a grand celebration of His Holiness the DalaiLama's birthday this year in recognition of his historic

Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangay First Official Trip to Australia

New York: -The Brazilian Parliamentary Friends of Tibetwas formally launched on 13 June at the NationalCongress of Brazil by the initiative of Deputy Mr WalterFeldman and with support signature of 215parliamentarians. It is an all-party group of deputies andsenators which will make an effort to generate real supportfor the resumption of dialogue between the leadershipin Beijing and Dharamsala to guarantee a genuine andmeaningful autonomy for the Tibetan people.Deputy Feldman said: "This fight does not belong onlyto Tibetans, it belongs to us, to government and non-governmental organisations, acting on behalf of humanrights to contribute to world peace and the culture ofpeace."Every nation has its history and tradition thatshould be worshiped and remembered. Without this,little by little, people may lose their identity and becomea group with no interest, no sense of homeland andwithout a soul."Cultural identity is the dignity of a nation.Therefore, I am with the people of Tibet in their struggleto maintain its identity, recognition and enforcement ofequal rights," he said.Mr Feldman further said: "Brazilas a country of great importance in the world cannotstand indifferent to the problem. Our weapon is essentialto combat all violence and we must put into practice theCulture of Peace.""As a propagator of the Culture ofPeace, theParliamentary Group invites the citizens ofthe world to establish an individual commitment in favorof human dignity and that peace is established

throughout the world. We introduce a new effectivemethod of transformation towards a new awarenessfor the third millennium."The newly formed groupalso endorsed the Ottawa Declaration, a resolutionadopted by the participants of the 6th WorldParliamentarians Convention on Tibet held in Ottawafrom 27 - 29 April 2012 and the Convention where

Deputy Walter Feldman attended.As highlighted inOttawa, the group called attention to China'srepressive policies in Tibet and the pattern of serioushuman rights violations-the destruction of theidentity of the Tibetan people, as evidenced by theattacks against Buddhism, the Tibetan language andculture.

been clear that it wants to use peaceful meansand is pushing for the following demands;1. Encourage the Chinese leadership to holdsubstantive dialogue with theCentral Tibetan Administration to resolve theissue of Tibet.2. Allow the UN High Commissioner forHuman Rights to conduct a fact-findingmission to Tibet.3.Ask their respective governments to includehuman rights protection as anagenda i t em in a l l t he i r b i l a t e r a l andmultilateral engagements with China.TheUNFFT has tried to also dominate the socialmedia spectrum hoping that their message willgo viral and bring the media's attention toHong KongThe United Nations for a FreeTibet has been act ively working for theultimate goal of a free Tibet.

First Independent Meeting for Tibet Held at Dharamshala. Photo: TPI

Highlighting the present tense and desperatesituation in Tibet, the one-day conferencewill also focus on how their future movementsfor a Tibet independent will be carried out ina safe, respectful and effective manner.At least 40 Tibetans have set themselves onfire in Tibe s ince las t March to protestagainst Chinese repressive policies towardTibetans. Sources from Tibet said two youngTibetan men set themselves alight in Khamregion of eastern Tibet on Wednesday, June20, carried Tibetan national flags and calledfor Tibetan independence and the return ofthe spiritual leader of Tibet His Holiness theDalai Lama.The main topics of discussion will be;-1) How to improve the independent struggleand movements in future?2) What form of protest and memorial shouldbe done in 2013 as it will be the centennialanniversary s ince the 13 th Dala i Lamadeclared Tibet independent?3) How to challenge the Chinese Governmentwho has cut off communication to many partsof Tibet?4 ) How to un i t e a l l o rgan i za t i ons andindividuals with ability, which will fight foran independent Tibet?

devolution of political powers to the democratically-elected leadership. "We are not telling Tibetans to havelavish parties andgambling, but to celebrate HisHoliness's long-term vision behind devolution of hisformal authority and the honourary awards likeTempleton Prize received by him. It will also be anoccasion to foster harmony and co-operation with thelocal Indian community by inviting the local leadersand showcasing them our culture," Kalon Tripa said.Kalon Tripa also spoke on the Kashag's policy toinvolve overseas Tibetan community in assisting thedevelopment of settlements in India. "The TibetanAssociations based in foreign countries are willing tosupport our sister shichag project," he said.Kalon Tripa underscored the need to maintain utmostcaution to combat attempts from outside to underminethe efforts and unity of the Tibetan people.Kalon Tripaassured the settlement officers of wholehearted supportfrom the Kashag.Earlier addressing the conference,Kalon Dolma Gyari urged the settlement officers tolegalise and protect entities such as lands owned bythe settlements. "We must preserve and protect thelands provided by the Indian government so as to returnit in good condition," she said.Kalon Dolma Gyari alsoemphasised that more efforts should be made to increaseagricultural produces and explore markets to sell them.She expressed concerned over the lack of co-operation

from some settlements in the youth empowermentsupport (YES), a visionary project initiated by the homedepartment to make unemployed Tibetan youths self-reliant through providing vocational trainings and micro-credit loans. "Some settlements have not yet formedYES committees, but also failed to inform the generalpublic about the project," she said.In his address, Health Kalon Dr Tsering Wangchukcalled for the settlement officers' co-operation andsupport in effectively implementing various healthcarepolicies such as clean drinking water programme, motherand child health programme, disease control programme(TB, Malaria, Hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, etc), healthinformation system, control of drug addictionprogramme, Tibetan torture survivors programmeamong others.Ms Dicki Chhoyang, Kalon for theDepartment of Information & International Relations,spoke on how the settlement officers could play avital role to engage the local Indian community inthe Tibet Support Groups movement throughmaintaining good relations with them. "For thisreason we had specially arranged ameeting between the Indian supporters and oursettlement officers during the TSG conference here,"she said. She also emphasised the importance ofrectifying at once the false and misleading mediareports about the Tibetan people and issue of Tibet.

Dharamshala: Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangay arrivedin Melbourne yesterday to start his one week visit. Thisis his first official visit to Australia since being electedthe head of the Central Tibetan Administration inAugust of last year.He will be speaking to Australian political leaders aboutthe situation in Tibet. Sangay believes that a resolutionexists for Tibet.Dr Sangay will be doing a series ofinterviews with the Australian media. Following theseinterviews he will also take part in a round-tablediscussion with eminent Chinese scholars at DeakinUniversity in Victoria.He said ‘The Berlin Wall came

Kalon Tripa Dr Lobsang Sangay addressing a mediaconference on the first day of his visit to Australia in

Melbourne on 24 June 2012.

down, Nelson Mandela, spent 27 years in prison, no-one thought he could be freed ‘. He tried to bring in acomparison among other struggles and how they havesucceeded historically with less support.He was also quoted saying that "The situation insideTibet is so oppressive that Tibetans are choosing todie." He was referring to the cases of self-immolationwhich have recently taken place in Tibet.His request tomeet the Australian Foreign Minister has not beengranted as of now. Dr Sangay felt that he just needed tobring a balanced view about Tibet. He did not disagreewith Australia's decision to listen to Chinese leaders,but to hear both sides of the story.Dr Sangay will be inCanberra and Sydney during the week.

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

The Tibet Post International 30 June, 2012 DharamshalaTPI NEWS8 IN SUPPORT FOR TIBET

Tragic Self-immolations Continue,CTA Reiterates Appeal to China

By Central Tibetan Administration: Tibet Net

My Internship Experience With The TibetPost International

Dharamshala: I had decided that I would intern withthe Tibet Post International ever since somevolunteers of Students For A Free Tibet came to mycollege to raise awareness about the Tibetan Causelast year. Through a few contacts who highly praisedThe Tibet Post, I took the decision to intern withthem at Mcleodganj.The Tibet post International office had a multicultural,global feel to it. There were two volunteers; Mark Kernan(from Ireland) and AnandKatakam (from Banglore) alongwith the permanent staff; Matthew Singh Toor( BritishPunjabi), Sangay, Pema and Yeshe (Tibetans). Everynow and then, volunteers of all nationalities would dropin.The first day at the TPI Office will always remain one ofmy fondest memories of the summer. I had learned moreabout the Tibetan situation in a day than three monthsof Internet research. It was also very cute to see Sangayand Pema struggle over the pronunciation of my name-It was only when the Irish volunteer Mark Kernan, calledme 'Ahimsa' that I decided to start correcting people.I will always think that Mcleodganj is more Tibetan thanIndian. The town has an essence; a sort of undiminishedlight. I don't know if this has emerged from its Buddhistbelief or if it is a state of freedom for the Tibetan peoplewho've come so far from their homes, but there is adefinite presence of a sense of a belonging thatenvelopes you.At the TPI office, it was amazing to think about how somany of us came from different backgrounds anddifferent worlds but we still managed to understandeach other, crack jokes and have fun. We had TPI's firstever staff dinner, as well as a staff picnic. For the firsttime, I came to terms with Tibetan food and it wasdelicious.I had the opportunity to attend one of thespeeches of His Holiness. Even though I was waitingoutside and I didn't have a radio to translate for me, thelast part of His Holiness' speech was in English and it isone that I shall never forget. I also managed to catch

By hamsini hariharan, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala:As the Central Tibetan Administration(CTA) was holding a prayer service to mourn the tragicself-immolations in Tibet yesterday, reports came outfrom Tibet that two more Tibetans have set themselveson fire in Kyegudo (Yushul) region in eastern Tibet.Ngawang Norpel, 22 and Tenzin Khedup, 24, setthemselves on fire yesterday afternoon in Tridu inKyegudo (Yushul).A video footage coming out of Tibetshows both the self-immolators carrying Tibetan nationalflag when they set themselves on fire. They shoutedslogans, calling for freedom in Tibet and the return ofHis Holiness the Dalai Lama to his people. TenzinKhedup died on the spot, while Ngawang Norpel wascritically injured and his whereabouts is not known.The Embassy of Denmark in China on 19 June stated

Youth Group Creates Awareness OnCurrent Tense Situation in Tibet

By Anand Katakam, Tibet Post International

Dharamasala: The Joint Secretary Tenzin Norsang andInformation Secretary Tenzin Yangzom of Tibetan YouthCongress, visited various Tibetan Settlements includingMungod, Hunsur, Bylakuppe, Kollegal, Bandhara,Mainpat and Orrisa and met with the general masses inall the settlements as well as addressed gathering insome of the major monasteries and schools in thesettlements.These visits are an important aspect of TYC's activitiesto create awareness on the current situation inside Tibetand also inform the masseson the functioning of TYC and sensitize them towardsour freedom struggle. These visits to the RegionalChapters provide Centrex memberswith the opportunity to assess the activities of thechapters as well as examine their accounts.While addressing the gathering of Tibetan settlement,Ms Tenzin Yangzom spoke about the functioning,relevance and importance of TYC to stand resolute forthe Tibetan Independence Struggle. To this effect shereminded members as well as the people of the inauguralspeech given by His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the 7thof October 1970 where he said, "...you should establishyour present will and determination like a mountain.Weshould make clear to ourselves that to achieve ourcommon goal is not an easy task and our path is strewnwith difficulties and problems, and that despite theseobstacles we must set our mind firmly to continue in ourquest to achieve our goals...".This was followed by a talk by Mr Tenzin Norsang whospoke on why it is important to maintain and restore ourstruggle for Tibetan Independence and how it is possible

All Must Work Together for Tibet's Struggle forFreedom: Tashi

Dharamshala: The TPI reporter in Taipei, takingadvantage of the Tashi Tsering's presence Taiwanafter his tour of United States, United Kingdometc interviewed the man who is firmly rooted forthe Tibetan Cause.Tashi, who came to Taiwan for 14 years before,talked about his brothers and sisters in the UnitedStates, while he alone came to Taiwan.Exiled Tibetans generally believe that Taiwan isnot a good place, because of the relationshipbetween the Chinese Nationalist Party and theMongolian and Tibetan Affairs Commission.Tashi is currently serving as a member of the boarddirector of Amnesty International Taiwan Branch(AI TAIWAN http://www.amnesty.tw/). He hasalso served as the President of the Tibetan YouthCongress in Taiwan Council.Tashi talked about how many Taiwanese peopleand international tourists, including Chinesetourists in Taiwan, participate in the many eventsthat take place there. In a single day, around 3000Chinese tourists pour into Taiwan and they seethe Tibet freedom movement conveying the truesituation which is contrary to the ChineseGovernment propaganda about Tibet. ManyChinese tourists had in fact expressed theiradmiration and support for him.Since 2004, Tsering has launched 310 processionsand was not affiliated f any organization. Once,while applying for demonstration permits to theTaipei Police Department, the police asked him howmany people would attend; Tsering stated thataround 50 people would attend.On the day of the protest at 228 Peace MemorialPark site, only seven Tibetan participated while 26officers had been dispatched to maintain security.Police officers saw only seven individuals and didnot think them capable of creating any law andorder problem and left.After they left, the procession started with peopleholding pictures of His Holiness the Dalai Lamaand waving the Tibetan Flag.In 2006, Tashi began to visit universities in Taiwanto give speeches on the poor human rightssituation of the Tibetan people to college studentsin Taiwan.Tashi founded the Tibet Taiwan Friendshiporganization with only seven people attending themovement which has grown to the support of over3,000 people and the assistance of eight non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has given theFree Tibet struggle more support. Now, in all theeight Taiwan NGOs, the Tibetan flag has beendisplayed.He had heard of Tibetans born in India, describeTibetans in Taiwan as a disgrace as Taiwan wasonce a part of China and the situation there is

By Hamsini H, Tibet Post International

Video grab showing Ngawang Norpel and Tenzin Khedup engulfed in flames during the self-immolation incident inYushul in eastern Tibet on 20 June 2012

that Danish Parliament's Foreign Policy Committeedelegation will visit both Beijing and the WesternProvince Qinghai to discuss China's environmental,social, economic and political challenges, foreign policyand growing role on the international stage. Thedelegation will visitYushul Tibetan Prefecture People'sCongress and local villages in Yushul."We hope theDanish Parliamentary delegation be allowed by theChinese authorities to carry out independent interviewswith members of local community in Yushul," said DickiChhoyang, Kalon for the CTA's Department ofInformation & International Relations.Since 2009, 42Tibetans have set themselves on fire demanding freedomand the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to hishomeland.

to achieve our independence. Norsang gave adetailed account on the achievement of TYC in 43years of its commitment for Independence struggleand services to the Tibetan community.He furtherurged the people to be ready to sacrifice anythingfor the cause of Tibet and stand united to respondto the dire situation inside Tibet. He also stressedon how activities in exile help Tibetan politicalprisoners in Tibet and affect the overall morale ofthe Communist Party of China.In Hunsure Rabgyaling Tibetan settlement, TYC andRegional Chapter honour its 9 member to engage inthe longest legal battle with Delhi High Court to tookprotested at the Chinese Embassy in 1992 and triedunder the Indian Penal Code section 307, 436, 427, 148,149, 186 and 353. The case was finalized after almost twodecades and sixty court hearings While in settlements,they also met with every Tibetan settlement officer,Tibetan Co-operative society, Regional members ofParliament, abbot of various monasteries, Governmentand Non-Governmental Organization and expressedgratitude for their hospitality and urged them tostrengthen mutual understanding amongstorganizations especially while organizing campaigns andactivities for Tibet.TYC representatives also visited old-age homes,Monasteries, Schools, Handicraft Centers to betterunderstand the conditions and express appreciation forall their efforts and good work. TYC has a significantrole to play as the bridge between the government andgeneral masses. A service it has rendered for the last 43years in exile.

complicated. This was proved true in 2008 whenMr Jane Yu Yan of the Taipei Parliament launchedthe Tibet Movement. That afternoon, Tashi Tseringreceived a phone call from a political partyKuomintang (KMT), which threatened him sayingthat Tibetan Movements were impossible as Tibetis a part of the Republic of China. Tsering thenrealized that the superstitions of the Tibetan inIndia were true; the situation in Taiwan wascomplicated.On World Human Rights Day, Ma Ying-jeou,President of Taiwan gave a speech. While givingthe speech two men from Amnesty Internationaldisplayed the Dalai Lama's picture and Tibetan flagasking the President to support the Tibetan issue.After the ceremony both men were arrested.In a separate movement for support in Burma,speakers from NGOs interrupted the speeches withchants of free Tibet.On the other hand, all the people who haveattended his processions support the TibetanCause. The people of Taiwan do not think thatTibet is a part of the People's Republic of China,and even support the independence of Tibet.During the 2009 uprising in Tibet, a number of NGOco-sponsored Solidarity March activities, headedby Tashi Tsering and the Secretary-General of theTaiwan Labour Front. Even the Chairman of theDemocratic Progressive Party, Tsai Ing-wen Ms.also joined the parade prompting live coverage ofmore than 3,000 people walking in the streets ofTaipei in solidarity with the Tibetan people.

When Tashi asked the Tibetan Buddhist centerof Taiwan, Tibet, Rinpoche, Geshe and Tibetan,for support for Campaign for Tibet, few claimedthat they did not want to be involved in politicalproblems. They believed that the Buddhistcentre was to promote Tibetan Buddhism andnothing else.Tashi then explained to the Rinpoches and theGeshes, the plight of Tibet and the origins ofCampaign for Tibet. Campaign for Tibet is not apolitical movement but a movement to fight forTibet's religious and human rights and freedom.When one 's own country was in such amiserable situation, it did not matter if theproblems were political or religious.However, no matter which country they residein, the people of Tibet should be a good humansand not harm others.Tashi spoke in gratitude for the people ofTaiwan. When CTA launched The Tibet BlueBook, the assistance from Taiwan let him feelthe goodness of the people and the defence ofdemocracy freedom and courage, made him feelthat Taiwan is one pair of options.Tashi is culturally Taiwanese. He likes traditionalTaiwanese food such as Braised Pork Rice, BeefNoodles, and Bitter Gourd Rib Soup (Ribsstewed with balsam the pear). However, this isthe era of global citizens, so regardless of theTaiwanese or Tibetans, we are all human familyof brothers and sisters, family members whenthere is suffering.

Tashi Tsering, director of Amnesty International Taiwan Branch (AI TAIWAN http://www.amnesty.tw/).Photo: TPI

fleeting glimpses of him at a few other instances and Iwas beyond happy- after all it is more than what manypeople manage in a lifetime.My work included copyediting articles and I also interviewed and helped coverevents. I attended a couple events like film screenings,discussions, marches and other events. Mcleodganj isalways hustling and bustling with some activities orevents. From participating in candle light marches towatching the Lion Man Dorjee's performance,Mcleodganj is lively and deep rooted in the sense ofcommunity.My favourite part in the work at The TibetPost was the translations. Usually, either Pema or Sangaywould receive the news in Tibetan or Chinese and theywould translate it into Basic English. Spellings, whichare hard enough for native English speakers, wereespecially hard when it came to Tibetan Proper nouns.But I think, the fact that we could come up with decentarticles even after particularly hard translations proved

that language barriers are not as large as we think theyare.I think that we got involved with some of the newson a personal level, such as those of self immolations.And it helped to know that we were contributing tothe Tibetan Cause in some way. And I met a varietyof people from over the world during my stay atMcleodganj; artists, travellers, monks, ordinarypeople with daily jobs and so many more who I wassomehow destined to meet here.At the end of thisinternship, I really hate the idea of leaving the placethat has become my home for the summer. I havelearnt so much in a short while related to journalism,culture, politics and other subjects that include lifeskills. I can never really find the right words to expresshow much this internship and the past six weekshave meant to me but I know that when I go back tomy "other life", I will no longer look at it in the way Iused to before.

30 June, 2012 Dharamshala The Tibet Post InternationalTPI NEWS

The Tibet Post InternationalHimalayan Literacy Trust(Head Office)1st Floor, Exile HouseRoad, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamsala, Distt.Kangra H.P 176219 India

Advicer Mr. Thomas KeimelAdvicer Dr. Vincent BrucelEditor in Chief Mr. YC. DhardhowaChinese Editor Ms. Keary HuangProject Manager Mathew Singh ToorTibetan Editor Mr. Sangay DorjeeAssistant Editor Ms. Pema TsoCircular Ven Phuntsok DhondupPublisher Mr. Sonam SangayEditor, Tibet Post Europe Mr. James DunnDesigner Mrs. Pema Tso

Tele: 0091-1892-224641Moble:+91-9882423566

E-mail: editor@thetibetpost.comwww.thetibetpost.com

Contributors for this Editon

Keary Huang TaiwanMathew Singh Toor IndiaAmanda Peters IndiaMark Kernan IrelandSamuel Ivo UKLiz Delehant USDennis Barbion BelguimRajeshwari K IndiaGarima Sharma IndiaYC. Dhardhowa IndiaSangay Dorjee IndiaPema Tso India

I n t e r n a t i o n a l

9EXILE

The ''Burning Man'' of Tibet ChallengeChina, Via Los Angeles

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

Beijing Is Responsible for the Tibet Self-Immolation Protests

By Colleen McKown, The Tibet Post International

A Tibetan man screams as he runs engulfed in flames after self-immolating at a protest in New Delhi, India, ahead ofChinese President Hu Jintao's visit to the country Monday, March 26, 2012. The Tibetan activist lit himself on fire

at the gathering and was rushed to hospital with unknown injuries, reports said. Photo: TPI

HH The Dalai Lama greets followers at the Tsuglagkhang Temple, Dharamsala

Dharamshala: ''Flames of Freedom'' is a daring,dramatic and thought provoking concept basedon the current escalation of self-immolations inTibet, initiated by a group of Tibetans, and others,in California. The ' burning man' conceptincorporates elements of artistic and politicalprotest which will be aimed at the Chineseconsulate in Los Angeles, and perhaps moreimportantly, at American and World public opinion.To date, forty two Tibetans, mostly within Tibetitself, have self-sacrificed their bodies in order toprotest Chinese rule in Tibet.To burn one's body is seen within the TibetanBuddhist cultural tradition as the ultimate form ofself-sacrifice; and the ultimate form of non-violence. The Buddha himself, according to theBuddhist historical canon, gave his body to astarving tigress and her cubs in one of hisreincarnations.Taken within this context, Tibetans burning theirbodies is seen by the organizers of the event, andTibetans in general, as a ''daring political defiance'',and crucially given the socio-religious context a''choice that emphasizes peace.''

Dharamshala: -On March 26, the Central TibetanAdministration released a statement entitled "AtLeast Seven Reasons Why Beij ing isResponsible for the Self-Immolations in Tibet."The statement rejects Beijing's claims that HisHoliness the Dalai Lama is encouraging acts ofself-immolation in Tibet.The Chinese government seeks to portray theself-immolations as a political plot used by thosecalling for Tibetan independence. A spokesmanfor the Chinese government told the AssociatedPress recently that the Dalai Lama and hisassociates have single-handedly planned theself-immolations of Tibetans.CTA states that, on the contrary, His Holinessdiscourages drastic actions, and that the Kashaghas called repeatedly for Tibetans to refrain fromextreme measures in official statements onJanuary 26 and March 10. The self-immolations,according to the CTA, keep occurring againstthe wishes of His Holiness and the Kashagbecause of the Chinese government 'soccupation and harsh actions against theTibetans.Since 2009, 30 self-immolations have occurredin Tibet. The Tibetans who have committed suchacts were protesting Beijing's repressive policiesand calling for the return of His Holiness theDalai Lama to Tibet. In response, the Chinesegovernment has stregnthened their repressivemeasures and deployed more military forces.CTA claims, "responsibility for the presenttense situation lies entirely with Beijing and sodoes the solution."His Holiness the Dalai Lama has advocated onlyfor peace, says CTA: "He has repeatedly statedthat the Tibetan struggle is not against theChinese people or China as a nat ion.Furthermore, he has openly expressed hisadmiration for Chinese civilization and praisedChinese work ethics."

Indian media delegation meetsHis Holiness the Dalai Lama

By Trinolda Colaco, The Tibet Post International

Mumbai: -Journalist Trinolda Colaco meetsboard member of Students for a Free TibetMumbai, Passang Tashi, to discuss refugeelife and the struggle for a Free Tibet.Pas sang Tash i l i ve s and works i n anapa r tmen t i n Ve r sova , no r the rnMumbai."When I first came to Mumbai twoyears ago," he tells me, "I was intimidated bythe city. I felt lost."Usually, when a Tibetan travels to certainparts of India, there is Tibetan settlementsomewhere and fellow Tibetans help you tosettle in. But with Mumbai having very fewTibetans, scattered in different parts of thecity, I had to find my own way. Honestly, itwas exciting."A neatly framed poster of The Lost Country -a film by Kargyur Rinpoche and his wifeMandakini - adorns his living-room wall. Asmall picture of the Tibetan flag also catchesmy eye. I remember seeing it in Imitiaz Ali'srecent movie Rockstar."We are not offended by the fact that thescene with the Tibetan flags was later bannedfrom the movie," says Tashi. "In fact, we feelhappy to know that Indians are aware aboutTibet's current situation and are trying toportray it in the media."We a l so met the censor board ' s CEO,Pankaja Thakur, and she expressed herconcern about the Tibet issue."Tashi's work for Students for a Free Tibet(SFT) involves participating in protests,seminars and workshops in Mumbai and inDharamshala, northern India.So what is it like to be a Tibetan in Mumbai?"I really like it here," Tashi tells me. "I havelearnt a lot. I believe that if one faces aproblem, one just grows with experience.Most Tibetans have a similar positive attitudeand believe that soon Tibet will be a freecountry."More and more Tibetan youth are leading thestruggle for Tibet's freedom, and finding newways to demonstrate.Tibetans in Mumbai protested outside theChinese consulate in March this year, to mark

Bridging East and West with Dorjee Tsering,and helping others with compassion

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

Kalon Tripa Lobsang Sangay stated, "HisHoliness the Dalai Lama is an internationally-recognized statesman for non-violence andpeace who is also the most revered leader of theTibetan people. He is part of the solution to thecurrent impasse in Tibet and not the problem.The sooner Beij ing f inds the wisdom torecognize this, the quicker it can address thetragedy in Tibet thus serving the mutualinterests of both Chinese and Tibetanpeople."In 2008, CTA states, His Holiness theDalai Lama issued a Memorandum on GenuineAutonomy for Tibet, and added a Note on theMemorandum in 2010. His Holiness presentedthese to the Chinese government in hopes tofind a resolution to the Tibetan question throughdialogue. In the Memorandum, His Holinessadvocates for Tibetan areas to remain a part of

China. His Holiness calls for greater autonomyand rights for the Tibetan people within thecontext of Chinese rule. The approach is calledthe Middle Way Policy, but, CTA claims, "theSino-Tibetan dialogue process has come to ahalt due to a lack of response from Beijing."The seven reasons given by CTA for Beijing'sresponsibility for the self-immolations are asfollows: continuing occupation of Tibet,political repression, patriotic re-educationand demonization of His Holiness the DalaiLama, the shooting and killing of peacefulT ibe t an p ro t e s t e r s , t he economicmarginalization and making of Tibetans assecond-class citizens in their homeland, thecultural assimilation and denial of Tibetan asa medium of instruction, and environmentaldestruction.

Furthermore, the pertinent question they ask atthe moment is: if the world and China in particularignores the issue of Tibet and the message of thesemartyrs, [is there] a chance that the movement mayeventually turn violent?The truthful answer is of course no one reallyknows. Yet, that is the question the organizers ofthe event urgently feel the need to ask. And, in asense, the burning man solidarity event issymbolically asking that question of China.The event itself will be held at the end of thismonth and will be performed by a Hollywoodstuntman. The point they will try to make is thatpeople are actually self-immolating for real in Tibet,and that the 'drama' of a staged event in Californiawill mirror the real events in a very unfree anddifferent society 'within China's borders'.Theorganizers hope to enlist the help and support ofwell known Bollywood and Hollywoodpersonalities including Whoopi Goldberg, PoojaBatra and Harrison Ford to highlight the campaign.If you want to learn more about organization andtheir principles and philosophy check out http://tibetburning.com/los-angeles-lhakar/

SFT Pasang Tashi with his supporters in Mumbai,India. Photo: TPI

the 53rd anniversary of the Tibetan uprisingthat forced the His Holiness the Dalai Lamato flee to India. SFT Mumbai also organisedan action to mark the global Stand Up forTibet protest on 2 November 2011, at whichdemonstrators tried to hand over a list ofdemands to Chinese Consul General NiuQingbao. It was not accepted.Tashi himself studied animation at FX Schooland intends to use film as a medium educatesociety about Tibet. He is currently workingon an idea for a film and also plans to organizea T ibe t an a r t s f e s t i va l i n Mumba i ,highlighting Tibet's distinct culture and arts.I n t he f ace o f ha r sh med ia andcommunications censorship in Tibet, SFTstruggles to try to connect Tibetans in Tibetand Tibetans in exile, via the internet and cellphones."They [Tibetans in Tibet] are an inspirationfor all of us who live in exile," Tashi says."They give us the hope and courage to believethat one day His Holiness the Dalai Lama willreturn to Tibet and that we will live in a freeTibet."Finally, when asked if he really would go backto Tibet if it gains its freedom, Tashi explains,"Tibet and its freedom has always been thefirst priority for all the Tibetans in exile. Themovement to free Tibet is so crucial for us.But at the same time, I love India. It has givenme so much. Yes, I would love to go back toTibet, but I will come to Mumbai as well!"

Dharamshala: Dorjee Tsering is a man whobelieves that caring for the elderly and the infirm isa mission to be exacted with kindness andcompassion. The Tibetan expression Nying-Jay Yul(the name of the NGO he helped to start) meansroughly, it's always difficult to literally translate aword from one language into another withoutloosing some of its essence, giving kindness andcare to others. This, Dorjee Tsering does.His ideas have come to fruition, and along withJudith Moritz, an Austrian teacher from Vienna, hehas worked to support elderly and disabledTibetans living in exile in the Dharamshala area.Dorjee was born in 1963 in Dharamshala; his familywas amongst the first batch of refugees to fleeTibet in the wake of the Chinese invasion. Hisparents had thirteen children and Dorjee was theonly child to survive. This in itself is anextraordinary story, yet despite this very difficultstart in life Dorjee has found it within himself tohelp others.The basic idea of the NGO is to give practical helpto people in dire need of it. For example, for peoplewho suffer from the effects of Polio, prosthesesare supplied and, in an act of foresight andimagination, the NGO has collected glasses inAustria (then sorted and graded them) and finallydelivered them out to old people in the generalarea of Dharamshala.A practical act of kindness that makes a difference-simple, effective and capable of changing lives forthe better.Judith, for her part, works in Austria to raise fundsand also to raise awareness about the needs ofthose less fortunate in Dharamshala, holdingChristmas Markets and workshops for children,for instance.The partnership between Nying-Jay Yul andBridging East-West is an example of cooperationand trust between very different cultures andsocieties. In other words, those who can give (theirmoney, time and kindness) to those whose needsare great. However, it is not a one-way show. Allultimately benefit on practical, emotional andpersonal levels.Then again perhaps the difference is not so greatbetween Austria and Tibet after all they are bothmostly mountain people with a strong independentstreak in them!If you want to help these goodpeople in order for them to help others here is theirwebsite: givingkindness.org. It can only be goodfor your Karma too help those who selflessly helpothers. www.giving-kindness.org

Bridging East and West with Dorjee Tsering, and helping others with compassion

The Tibet Post International 30 June, 2012 DharamshalaTPI NEWS10

Lone Youth in Ngaba Protestsfor Tibetan Rights and Freedom

By Garima Sharma, Tibet Post International

China's Hidden 'Cultural Genocide' inTibet; Crimes Against Humanity?

By Mark Kernan, The Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: In 2011, the spiritual leader ofTibet, His Holiness the Dalai Lama reiteratedhis belief that China is committing a form of'cultural genocide'* in Tibet: consciously,de l ibe ra te ly and wi th in ten t . However,totaliatarian states, or even democratic onesfor that matter, rarely signal their intent tocommit genocide-cul tura l , economic orotherwise in actual overt policies.Even Nazi Germany did not (the Nazis werecareful in using appropriate euphemisms-'evacuation' 'resettlement' 'final solution'),and China, which has learned the value ofhow mass communication can also deceiveand manipulate, is no different.Of course, in retrospect, we can discern thetrue intent of genocidal actions-the wellorganised massacre of Tutsis by Hutu miltiagroups in Rwanda in 1994 is the most modernand horrific example. Yet even that Genocidewas preceded by Hutu power ideologies; inother words, it was being flagged covertly, ifnot overtly. That is, if the world bothers tolook, the warning signs are often there.As a working and funct ional def in i t ionCultural genocide can be defined as: thedeliberate destruction, with intent, of anethnic, religious or social group. For example,the elimination of indigenous languages,customs and beliefs.Interestingly, culturalgenocide as a concept is 'missing' from the1948 UN Convention on Genocide, and thishas beeen a source of some controversy eversince, it is notoriously difficuilt to prove' ' i n t en t t o des t roy ' ' - t hen and now. Fo rinstance, cultural dist inctiveness can beeradicated, yet the group still survives. Thecontemporary Tibetan story is a case inpoint.In Tibet, Buddhist Monasteries havebeen destroyed, or more recently severelycurtailed as places of religious freedom;intellectuals, writers and cultural figures havebeen silenced, tortured, and often worse; and,

Tsering Dhondrup, Photo: TPI

Dharamshala: June 11th, 2012. Tsering Dhondrup,23, held a public protest in Hongyuan Countybetween June 11th -13th at Ngaba (Eastern Tibet).At 12 pm Beijing time.Dhondrup raised slogans for the release of politicalprisoners and against the Chinese autocracy inTibet referring to human rights violations, freedomfor Tibet and freedom of movement, as well as therelease of Tibetans from the Ngaba region whowere arrested in Lhasa following an increasedcrackdown in Tibet's capital.Dhondrup carried a banner with pictures ofTibetans who had self-immolated in Tibet. The

By hamsini hariharan, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: "I want to inspire people. I wantpeople to see that nothing is impossible. " saysJamyang, the director of Rogpa Charitable Trust. In2004, he and his wife had set up Rogpa by initiallystarting a free baby care centre for Tibetans inMcleodganj. At first, they took in six babies whohad both working parents.Although he was not as "professionally" qualified,he made up for it through hard work and innovativeideas. And now, they have 35 babies and they havedownsized once already, in order to provide bettercare rather than build up the numbers. Rogpa takescare of all the children's needs; they even maintainnutrition balance, fruit time, temple walks and so on."Rogpa Charitable Trust tries to make Tibetan peoplelive better and then give back to the community.Money can't buy a mental Revolution. It can onlybuy power or ego", he says.From its humble beginnings, Rogpa has expandedwith the establishment of a vocational traininginstitute for single mothers. The products they makeare then sold at the Rogpa Shop and Cafe (onJogiwara Road),which currently provides them withnearly 70% of funding. A second Rogpa Shop andCafe was opened in Korea and is now completelyrun by volunteers. They're planning to open a libraryto interest and inspire children to read Tibetan books.Rogpa has also executed several fundraisingprojects, fests and festivals in India as well as Korea.Jamyang smiles when I ask him about the roots of

Young Tibetan Girl Arrested and Torturedfor Shouting “Free Tibet”

By Garima Sharma, Tibet Post International

Dharamshala: June 24th, 2012. A young 17 yearold, girl named Jigmey Dolma was arrested at9:30 pm, for protesting against the brutalitieswithin Chinese-occupied Tibet . The young girlshouted slogans such as ‘Free Tibet', ‘The DalaiLama Must Be Returned To Tibet' and ‘All thePolitical Prisoners Must Be Released - IncludingPanchen Lama', in her native language. Shecontinued to protest for approximately fourminutes, after which she was taken into custodyby the Chinese police.Early in the morning on June 24th, Jigmey toldher parents Nyima (father) and Solhamo (mother)that she was going to the nearby farm for somework. However, she had been careful not to alerther family or friends about her intention toprotest, as they would have discouraged her.Upon her arrest, Jigmey's father was not allowedto see her. Subsequently, on June 28th, herfamily was informed that their daughter was tobe taken to a hospital for examination. WhenNyima arrived at the hospital to wait for Jigmeyhe noticed that his daughter's hand was coveredin cloth and that she could not stand straight.He also noticed that she was unable to walkproperly, and inferred that she had been torturedduring the arrest. On 29th June Nyima was finallyallowed to see his daughter who told him, thatshe was very frightened during her detainmentas she was alone in prison and had been torturedharshly.Jigmey has two sisters and her aunt, who is anun named Bomo Taga participated in a pro-Tibet protest in 2008 leading to a subsequentarrest. She was given a 2 year prison sentence

TIBET:GENERAL

perhaps more worryingly for the future ofTibetan culture, most of the education systemis conducted in the Chinese language.Tibetan singers routinely sing saccherine popsongs on Tibetan and Chinese TV stations.Is this authentic Tibetan cultural expressionor a cynical 'disneyfication' of Tibetan culturefor outside consumption by others?.In April,2012 the International Campaign for Tibet(ICT), a Tibetan support group in the USstated that ''Chinese policies and practicesof cultural repression and destruction are sosystematic and persistent in Tibet, and theireffects are so serious, that they containelements of cultural genocide.''Professor Ben Kiernan of Yale University, andthe Director of Genocides Studies Program,states that motivation is often hidden forGenocide by s ta tes , and couched in thelanguage of progress and development ,ancient notions of racial purity, and/or saving

a des ignated e thnic or socia l group-forexample, serfs in Tibet in the 1950's duringthe Chinese invasion.In reality however theyare conquering terri tory, seizing wealth,appropriating resources and expanding livingspace . The r e s t i s , i n e f f ec t , mos t lyp ropaganda to j u s t i fy agg re s s ive s t a t eactions.To conclude, it is worth asking thequestion: is there some form of 'culturalgenocide' taking place within Tibet?For sure their is a good argument for culturaldestruction and the imposition of Chinesecultural hegemony upon the Tibetans. Theevidence suggests that even if we think thatit is not 'cultural genocide' now, the warningsigns are most definitely flashing.*Cul tura l genocide ' in quota t ion marksbecause legally, under International Law, itis not yet a fully recognised legal norm.Meaning, it is not codified under law as forexample Crimes against Humanity are.

protest lasted for nearly 25 minutes until Dhondrupwas arrested by the Chinese police in Hongyuan.Dhondrup is being held near Hongyuan County. Itis believed that he will be released this week. Thereason for his unusually short detention is notknown. Local residents in Hongyuan havespeculated that Dhondrup may have sustainedserious beatings, in captivity and the authoritiesare avoiding responsibility by releasing him.A native of Amo township of Hongyuan County,Dhondrup is an orphan. His late mother's name isKangkar and he is said to have lived for some timein central Tibet.

Interview with Tenzin Jamyang, Director

of Rogpa Charitable Trust

Rogpa. The idea goes back to his childhood, whenhe was ten years old. The whole problem forsponsorship for education had a very deep impacton him. "Why should only rich people sponsor. Whycan't poor people sponsor?" He had asked himselfthen and the thought had stuck on. If everyone couldput in a little effort, irrespective of their financialstatus, then everyone could contribute towardsmaking the community a better place.Jamyang is very deep rooted in his idea of community.Rogpa is not his, he says. He'd rather be assigned tothe role of a volunteer instead of serving as thedirector but is waiting for matters to stabilize. Heexplains that Rogpa belongs to the community as awhole and is not his own. " I don't do charity here.When the [number of] charitable trusts increases ina community then the community has more problems.If the charitable trusts reduce, then it means that theproblems have decreased."" Its all about how you think. For me, RogpaCharitable Trust is a revolution. But the Governmentdoes not register revolutioners. But I wantrevolution; in the Tibetan community. I want brainrevolution tin the Tibetan mentality."Jamyang surprises many when he speaks of his otherpassion: music. He is a disc jockey and he plays atKorea whenever he has the time. The director of acharity by day, a reggae loving, DJ by night, thisman who wanted to inspire people has certainly donehis part whether he realizes it or not.

and upon her release, was not allowed to returnto Dakhar Nunnery, which had been her home,after she had taken her celibacy vows. Bomotook to becoming an ascetic in the mountainsdue to this and upon her return, fell very sick.She was taken to a hospital where doctorsexamined her and found that her stomach had

become damaged after undergoing torture inprison. Currently, she stays at home due toher deteriorating health. Every time she triesto access healthcare facilities at the localgovernment hospital, she has to bear thesocial stigma of being registered as a formercriminal.

Indian Parliamentary Delegation Visits Tibetan Parliament

Dharamshala: An Indian par l iamentarydelegation, who were on an official trip toDharamsala, visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile in Dharamsala on 26 June.The members o f the de lega t ion , whichcomposed of ten Rajya Sabha (Upper House)MPs, were Maya Singh, Dr Bharat KumarRaut, Dr K P Ramalingam, RabinarayanMohapatra, Bhupender Yadav, Ahmad SaeedMal ihabad i , Shan ta ram Naik , JesudasuSeelam, Ali Anwar Ansari and Dr JanardhanWaghmare.The Tibetan Institute of Performing of Artshos t ed a cu l t u r a l pe r fo rmance fo r t he

By hamsini hariharan, Tibet Post International

Indian Parliamentary delegation with members of thestanding committee of the Tibetan Parliament inDharamsala on 26 June 2012. Photo: Tibet Net

delegation on the evening of 25 June. Theywere welcomed by Khenpo Sonam Tenphel,the deputy speaker of Tibetan Parliament. Thede lega t ion p ra i sed the v ib ran t T ibe tancultural songs and dances.On 26 June, the standing committee of theTibetan Parliament accorded a warm receptionto the delegation during their visit to theParliamentary Secretariat. The delegates werebriefed about the issue of Tibet, followingwhich they he ld de l ibera t ions wi th theTibetan MPs.The de l ega t i on ' s v i s i t s t o t he T ibe t anParliament and TIPA were co-ordinated byPunjab National Bank.