Canberra: The Canberra Tibetan Community held a candlelight vigil on Sunday evening to mark the 31st anniversary of the disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, and in remembrance of Tibetan prisoners of conscience.

Speakers at the event raised concerns about human rights in Tibet, calling for greater international attention to religious and cultural freedom and the impact of China’s ethnic unity policies on Tibetans and other minority groups.

ACT Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs Peter Cain and Greens MLA for Yerrabi Andrew Braddock addressed the gathering, expressing solidarity with the Tibetan community and support for human rights and religious freedom.

Stephen Rowe of Amnesty International Australia called for stronger international attention to the repression of Tibetan religion, culture and language.

Representative Karma Singey raised concerns about China’s plans to interfere in the reincarnation of the next Dalai Lama and the impact of ethnic unity policies on Tibetan identity.

The vigil concluded with prayers for the long life and early release of the 11th Panchen Lama and all Tibetan political prisoners.

– Report filed by Office of Tibet, Canberra