A collective call for immediate action echoes from the Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, denouncing the ongoing conflicts in Tibet’s Derge County. As reports of human rights abuses seep out, this community implores the global community and human rights watchdogs across the world to turn their attention toward the intensifying situation in Derge.
A Protest for Peace
On the recent commencement of the 55th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, approximately 45 members of the Tibetan community-based in Switzerland and Liechtenstein hosted a peaceful protest before the Palace of Nations. The intention was clear – to implore the immediate cessation of the ongoing crackdown in Derge, a county in Tibet known for its cultural, historical, and religious significance.
The protest saw participation from notable figures, including Jacques Arnal, a board member of the Swiss-Tibetan Friendship Association, former Tibetan Parliamentarian Ngawang Gyaltsen Gangshontsang, along with Secretary Phuntsok Topgyal and Tenzin Choesang from the Tibet Bureau in Geneva, and leaders from the Swiss and Liechtenstein Tibetan Community Association.
A United Call for Action
Karma Choekyi, President of the Swiss and Liechtenstein Tibetan Community Association, led the event. The protest began with the singing of the Tibetan National Anthem and a moment of remembrance for Tibetan martyrs. Choekyi conveyed the contents of a petition letter sent to the United Nations and held a press release during the protest.
Adding to the voices, Jacques Arnal spoke in English to the gathering on behalf of the Swiss-Tibetan Friendship Association, further highlighting the community’s concerns.
Phuntsok Topgyal, representing the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibet Bureau, accentuated the detention of more than 1000 Tibetans in Derge. He cited the forced relocation of Tibetans and the destructive dam construction project as the primary catalysts for the arrests. He urged the Chinese government to “stop the crackdown inside Tibet immediately”. He implored for continued campaigning against the Communist Party of China’s repression until the Tibet-China conflict was resolved.
The Path Forward
This protest in Geneva aimed to raise international consciousness about the escalating tension and suppression in Tibet. The Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, along with their supporters, continue endeavoring to spotlight the human rights abuses in Derge, holding onto the hope for a peaceful resolution.
This international unity for a common cause underlines the importance of global cooperation in advocating for human rights and dignity for all. As the Swiss and Liechtenstein Tibetan communities take their stand, they serve as a valuable reminder of the power of collective voices in battling repression and seeking justice.
