Zurich: Representative Thinlay Chukki from the Tibet Bureau in Geneva attended a talk session on Buddhism in the 21st Century at the University of Zurich on 12 June 2025, featuring Geshe Thupten Jinpa, the longtime English interpreter for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a renowned scholar of Buddhism.

The forum was jointly organised by the Gaden Phodrang Foundation of the Dalai Lama and the Tibet Institute Rikon, both based in Switzerland. More than 300 people attended the session, including UN Advocacy Officer Phuntsok Topgyal, as well as the President, Vice President, Secretary, and executive members of the Tibetan Community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

Drawing from his long service under His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Geshe Thupten Jinpa shared His Holiness’ vision for modern Buddhism. He reiterated that, rather than merely focusing on rituals or dogmatic faith, understanding the mind, using reason, and practising compassion are the keys to being a devoted, modernised Buddhist.

He further explained that His Holiness especially encourages young people to question, reflect, and engage critically with Buddhist teachings. “His Holiness often refers to Buddhism as a ‘science of mind’ because it offers tools to understand thoughts and emotions—tools that are especially relevant for addressing modern issues like stress and anxiety.”

Geshe Thupten Jinpa also highlighted His Holiness’ concept of “secular ethics”—ethical principles grounded in compassion and self-awareness, supported by science, and accessible to everyone regardless of religious belief. These practices, he said, help young people manage emotions and lead more meaningful lives.

“In essence, His Holiness the Dalai Lama envisions a 21st-century Buddhism rooted in ancient wisdom but guided by critical thinking, ethical living, and universal compassion—especially aimed at empowering the next generation,” he concluded.

-Report filed by Tibet Bureau Geneva