On the auspicious 91st birthday of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama—the crown jewel of the realms and a global leader of peace—the Kashag, on behalf of Tibetans inside and outside Tibet, offer our deepest prostrations with body, speech and mind and heartfelt greetings to His Holiness. We also extend warm greetings to the distinguished guests, members of the monastic community, and people around the world who are celebrating this great occasion with joy and devotion.

Last year, on the momentous occasion of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday according to the Gregorian calendar, the Kashag officially announced the worldwide celebration of the Year of Compassion.

This initiative was launched as an expression of gratitude to His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s immeasurable kindness and to promote global awareness of His Four Principal Commitments. Since then, Tibetans and friends of Tibet around the world have undertaken many thoughtful and meaningful activities in support of this initiative, for which we are deeply grateful to you all.

His Holiness has devoted His entire life to fulfilling the following four great commitments:

• To promote universal human values by fostering compassion, loving-kindness, ethical conduct, and a sense of moral responsibility. These qualities form the essential foundation for genuine happiness and well-being—both for individuals and families, and for the society.
• To promote harmony among the world’s religious traditions, emphasizing all religions share fundamental values such as love, compassion, forgiveness, contentment, selfdiscipline, and ethical conduct despite their diverse philosophies and doctrinal systems.
• To preserve and promote Tibetan religion and culture, which embody a profound heritage of compassion, wisdom, and non-violence, and seeks to raise global awareness of the urgent need to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Tibetan Plateau—often called the “Third Pole” due to its immense environmental significance. The loss of Tibet’s unique spiritual heritage and ecological environment would be not only a tragedy for the Tibetan people but also a matter of global concern, affecting the well-being of entire humanity. Guided by this conviction, His Holiness has consistently advocated for the just cause of Tibet.
• His Holiness has called for the revival of the ancient Indian knowledge system and traditions—including the science of mind, logic, philosophy, contemplative practices, and secular ethics—and their integration with modern education. He firmly believes that combining this timeless wisdom with contemporary scientific knowledge can help cultivate a more compassionate and peaceful world for future generations.

These Four Principal Commitments are not pursued for the narrow interests of any nation, ethnic group, or community. Rather, they represent an extraordinary vision for fostering lasting peace, harmony, and well-being for all sentient beings and for the world.

During the Year of Compassion, the Central Tibetan Administration has undertaken an extensive program to promote His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s Four Principal Commitments. Under the leadership of the concern departments of the Central Tibetan Administration, and through the Offices of Tibet and Tibetan settlement offices around the world, numerous initiatives have been organized. These include photographic exhibitions showcasing the life, achievements, and Four Principal Commitments of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama; conferences, seminars, academic discussions, and public awareness programs; the distribution of books authored by His Holiness, including Voice for the Voiceless: Over Seven Decades of Struggle with China for My Land and My People; translations and publications in local languages; and public screenings of documentary films such as Man of Peace and Wisdom of Happiness.

Distribution of commemorative souvenirs and anniversary calendars marking the birthday of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama; the installation of billboards and large-scale public displays featuring photographs of His Holiness alongside His inspirational messages on major streets, highways, and public transport stations in prominent international cities; literary, cultural, and educational competitions; sporting events; participation in international cultural festivals; the organisation of Tibetan cultural festivals; and cultural performance tours showcasing Tibet’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, were also carried out.

Many other meaningful religious, humanitarian, and community service activities such as raising of prayer flags for the long life of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama; the practice of tsethar (life release) through the rescue of animals destined for slaughter; collective recitations of the Kangyur; the accumulation and recitation of sacred mantras; and the performance of various long-life prayers and religious ceremonies dedicated to His Holiness were also under taken.

Equally noteworthy have been the many acts of public service and compassion carried out across different communities. These include the donation of food, clothing, bedding, and other essential items to elderly care homes, persons with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged families; the provision of free medical treatment through health camps established in numerous localities; the distribution of complimentary meals to hospital patients and their caregivers; voluntary blood donation campaigns; the distribution of educational materials and school supplies to students; the provision of free drinking water to pedestrians during the hot season; and voluntary services such as free hair-cutting and personal grooming for members of the public.

In many Tibetan settlements, individuals and families have voluntarily pledged to abstain from the consumption of meat, alcohol, and tobacco throughout the Year of Compassion, thereby embracing healthier, more ethical, and more compassionate ways of life.

In addition, extensive environmental conservation and community service activities have been carried out on a large scale. These include tree-planting initiatives, environmental clean-up campaigns, and a variety of other community-based volunteer programs. Such efforts have earned widespread appreciation and praise from local communities living alongside Tibetans, further strengthening bonds of goodwill, mutual respect, and cooperation.

Similarly, throughout the Himalayan region—from the Union Territory of Ladakh to the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh—as well as in countries around the world where friends and supporters of Tibet reside, numerous Tibet support groups and organisations have carried out remarkable variety of programs in observance of the Year of Compassion. These initiatives continue to expand in scope and impact and are deserving of the highest appreciation and recognition.

It is particularly heartening that several cities, especially in the United States, have officially proclaimed the anniversary of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s birthday as Day of Compassion. Such recognition serves as a powerful affirmation of the universal relevance and enduring appeal of His Holiness’s message of compassion, non-violence, interfaith harmony, and human values.

Today, as humanity continues to witness one man-made conflict after another, alongside an increasing number of natural disasters and humanitarian crises, the most effective antidote lies in cultivating the seeds of compassion within the human heart and nurturing ethical values in everyday life. In a world confronted by division, violence, and suffering, the timeless message of compassion championed by His Holiness is more relevant and necessary than ever before. Therefore, the Year of Compassion should not be regarded merely as a one-year campaign that concludes after twelve months. Rather, it should serve as the beginning of a lifelong commitment to fostering compassion, kindness, and ethical conduct. Starting within our own families and extending to our communities and society at large, each of us should strive to practice these values every day, every month, every year, and throughout the course of our lives.

The Four Principal Commitments of His Holiness offer an extraordinary pathway towards achieving lasting peace and genuine happiness for humanity. Increasingly, governments, educational institutions, and individuals around the world are recognizing and embracing these ideals by promoting universal ethical values, integrating Social, Emotional and Ethical (SEE) Learning into educational systems, safeguarding the environment to maintain ecological balance, and addressing disputes and conflicts through dialogue and non-violence rather than confrontation and force. In previous statements issued by the Kashag, we have highlighted the growing international recognition and implementation of these universal principles. We have also noted that, alongside this increasing appreciation of His Holiness’ vision and contributions, the Tibetan people’s just and non-violent struggle continues to garner greater understanding, sympathy, and support from the international community. This growing support reflects a deeper recognition not only of the enduring relevance of His Holiness the Great 14th Dalai Lama’s message but also of the legitimate aspirations of the Tibetan people to preserve their identity, culture, religion, and fundamental human rights.

However, the situation in the People’s Republic of China presents a stark contrast. As China has emerged as the world’s second-largest economy in this century, its political confidence and military assertiveness have grown correspondingly. Consequently, it has increasingly engaged in policies and actions that have become subjects of international concern and debate. At the same time, the Chinese government has intensified efforts to assimilate the non-Chinese nationalities under its rule into a singular Chinese national identity. Particularly alarming is the Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress law, which entered into force on 1 July this year. This legislation openly institutionalizes policies aimed at eroding the distinct identities, cultures, languages, and traditions of non-Chinese peoples. Neither international law nor the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China grants the state—or those exercising governmental authority—the right to eradicate or forcibly assimilate any nationality or ethnic group. Likewise, none of the non-Chinese peoples living under the administration of the People’s Republic of China, including the Tibetan people, have willingly consented to the loss or erasure of their national identity. The law therefore raises profound concerns regarding the intentions and direction of the Chinese government’s nationality policies. It provides significant evidence, openly presented by the Chinese authorities themselves, of measures designed to transform and absorb distinct national communities into a single state-defined identity. In this regard, many observers and legal scholars have expressed concern that such policies may have serious implications under international human rights and criminal laws. Accordingly, unless the international community responds in a manner consistent with its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, there is a risk that such policies will continue unchecked. The world may then be left to observe, with growing concern, what further measures might be pursued and how far the resolve of the international community will be tested. Indeed, it is not an exaggeration to suggest that legislation of this nature represents a critical crossroads in the contemporary world. The response of the international community to such developments will help determine whether the future is shaped by greater openness, justice, respect for diversity, and protection of fundamental rights, or whether it moves toward increasing authoritarianism, intolerance, and the suppression of distinct cultural and national identities.

The consequences of the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to expand its authoritarian ideology and governance model beyond its borders, including into neighbouring countries, are becoming increasingly evident. As a growing number of governments, policymakers, and civil society organisations begin to recognise the challenges posed by these developments, international concern and vigilance continue to rise. Nevertheless, the implications of this new law extend far beyond the domestic affairs of the People’s Republic of China. The legislation explicitly asserts jurisdiction beyond China’s borders by claiming legal authority over individuals and organisations that, in the view of the Chinese authorities, obstruct the implementation of the law or engage in activities that it characterises as “ethnic separatism.” It further provides for the pursuit of legal liability against such individuals and organizations. These provisions raise serious concerns regarding the extraterritorial application of domestic legislation and its potential impact on internationally recognised freedoms, including freedom of expression, association, and advocacy. If such assertions of authority are left unchallenged, they could establish a troubling precedent whereby a government seeks to extend the reach of its domestic laws beyond its territorial jurisdiction and apply them to individuals and organisations operating lawfully in other countries.

Equally important will be the determination, resilience, and unity demonstrated by Tibetans both inside Tibet and in exile in responding to what they regard as a systematic attempt to erode the Tibetan nation’s distinct identity. The preservation of Tibet’s unique cultural, linguistic, religious, and national heritage will depend not only upon international awareness and support but also upon the collective commitment of Tibetans everywhere to safeguard and strengthen their identity for future generations.

Ultimately, the challenges posed by such policies underscore the broader importance of protecting human dignity, cultural diversity, and the right of all peoples to maintain and develop their own identities. These principles are not concerns of any single nation or community alone; they form an essential part of the shared values upon which a just, peaceful, and pluralistic international order must be built.

On 2 July 2026, Lobga Rangzen (Lobsang Palden) set himself on fire outside United Nations Headquarters in New York City as a form of non-violent protest. His sacrifice followed 157 selfimmolation protests that have taken place in Tibet and was intended to draw international attention to China’s recently enacted Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress Law and to appeal for greater international engagement regarding the situation in Tibet.

In response to the Chinese government’s Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress law, the Kashag has already begun formulating a comprehensive strategy to address its implications. As these plans are finalised, specific measures will be implemented in a phased and systematic manner.

This law targets not only institutions but also individuals and families, seeking to transform the very foundations of a people’s national identity. It aims to assimilate non-Chinese peoples into a singular Chinese identity through the systematic reshaping of their history, thought, religion, language, customs, public institutions, cultural symbols, civil service, educational system, and teaching profession. Through the combined machinery of the state, its administrative structures, social governance mechanisms, and economic development policies, these objectives are intended to be enforced through coercive measures and reinforced by legal sanctions and accountability mechanisms. Considering these developments, the Kashag calls upon all Tibetans—both inside Tibet and in exile—to recognize the gravity of these policies and to respond with unity, resilience, and unwavering determination. At this critical juncture, it is essential to strengthen efforts to preserve and protect Tibet’s distinct national identity, religion, language, culture, and historical heritage. By remaining steadfast in these endeavors and working collectively across generations and communities, Tibetans can continue to safeguard the foundations of their identity and uphold the aspirations of the Tibetan people for the future.

Although, from a Buddhist perspective, the leaders of the Chinese Communist Party are themselves objects of compassion, insofar as they remain under the influence of the three poisons—attachment, hatred, and ignorance—this does not absolve them of responsibility for actions that violate fundamental ethical principles, human rights, or international norms. Compassion does not imply indifference to injustice; rather, it calls for a clear recognition of harmful actions and their consequences. Therefore, the Kashag urges the leaders of the People’s Republic of China to abandon policies founded upon coercion, repression, and rigid ideological control. Genuine social stability, equality among nationalities, and ethnic harmony cannot be achieved through measures that seek to suppress diversity or undermine the identities of distinct peoples. Rather, they must be built upon mutual respect, dialogue, justice, and the protection of the legitimate rights and interests of all nationalities. In this spirit, the Kashag calls upon the Chinese government to reconsider the Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress law, to suspend its implementation, and to engage in policies that respect and protect the unique languages, cultures, religions, histories, and identities of the diverse peoples living under its administration. Only through such an approach can lasting harmony, trust, and genuine unity be achieved for the benefit of all concerned.

In conclusion, I offer my heartfelt prayers that His Holiness the Great Fourteenth Dalai Lama may continue to enjoy excellent health, a long and stable life, and ever-expanding enlightened activities for the benefit of all sentient beings. May His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama soon return safely to the Land of Snow and may Tibetans both inside Tibet and in exile once again be reunited in harmony and peace. May the timeless message of compassion, non-violence, wisdom, and universal responsibility that His Holiness has dedicated his life to promoting continue to flourish and spread throughout the world. And may it inspire humanity to cultivate greater understanding, kindness, and mutual respect, thereby bringing lasting peace, wisdom, happiness, and well-being to all people everywhere.

The Kashag

Central Tibetan Administration

Dated: 6 July 2026

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*N.B.: This is the English translation of the original Tibetan statement. In case of any discrepancies, the original Tibetan text should be regarded as final and authoritative