Turbenthal-Switzerland: On 6 September 2025, the Tibetan Community of Switzerland and Liechtenstein (TCSL) celebrated the 65th Tibetan Democracy Day in Turbenthal, Switzerland. More than 300 Tibetans joined the event along with special guests, former parliamentarians, and representatives from Tibetan NGOs. The program included a prayer ceremony, speeches, group discussions on democracy, and the presentation of the TCSL annual report.

The important guests in the event included the abbot of Tibet Institute Rikon, UN Advocacy Officer of Tibet Bureau Geneva, Phuntsok Topgyal and Tibet Bereau Geneva’s Accountant Tenzin Choesang.

In his keynote address, UN Advocacy Officer Phuntsok Topgyal, representing the Office of Tibet, emphasised on the Tibetans in exile having democratic freedoms and the greater responsibility that they carries in fulfilling the aspirations of Tibetans inside Tibet.  “Always remember that we are activists, dedicated to working for the Tibetan cause from exile” he reminded.

Topgyal explained three important responsibilities for Tibetans in exile. Firstly, to maintain connections with Tibetans living in Tibet and to be their hope. Second, to stay united as an exiled community and to uphold the Tibetan culture and identity. Third, to continue international advocacy.

He also advised Tibetan students and professionals to spread awareness about Tibet in their schools, workplaces, and communities. He encouraged Tibetan organisations to look for capable, educated, and financially well-off people in the community and offer them platforms to lead and contribute. He expressed concern that many Tibetans might may move away from community life once they become well established.

Topgyal also spoke about the importance of strengthening connections between the younger and elderly generations of Tibetans in Switzerland. He shared that while children are learning the Tibetan language and culture through classes and performances spearheaded by the community organisations, it is equally important for organisations to create platforms where elders can also remain engaged with the young Tibetans.

“By offering elders opportunities to take part in different activities and roles within the community, their knowledge, experience, and wisdom can be shared more widely”, he said. He further emphasised on the significance of bringing younger and older generations of Tibetans together to sustain the Tibetan culture and identity for generations to come.

This celebration proved as a reminder to Tibetans to preserve their culture, and to continue their voice for Tibet’s cause.

-Report filed by Office of Tibet, Geneva