London: A group of seven postgraduate students from the University of Westminster’s MA Diplomacy & Global Politics and MA International Relations programmes visited the Office of Tibet in London on 25 November 2025 for a non-academic session focused on deepening their understanding of the Sino-Tibetan conflict, the work of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), and the global advocacy efforts led by the Tibetan diaspora.

The educational visit was organised by Dr. Frands Pedersen, Course Leader for the MA Diplomacy and Global Politics programme, who has been bringing his students to Tibet House for several years. The initiative aims to introduce students to the influential role of non-state actors in diplomacy, peace-building, and international relations.

Representative Tsering Yangkey warmly welcomed the students and delivered an insightful presentation on the four principal commitments of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. She highlighted His Holiness’ enduring contributions to the Tibetan freedom struggle, the promotion of human values, inter-religious harmony, and the preservation of Tibetan culture and identity.

Secretary Tenzin Kunga, an alumnus of the University of Westminster, provided a comprehensive historical overview of the Sino-Tibetan conflict. He spoke about the evolution of democratic governance within the Tibetan exile community, the CTA’s Middle Way Policy, and his own professional experience in political advocacy.

The presentations were followed by an engaging hour-long question-and-answer session. Students raised a wide range of queries, including India’s policy on Tibet, the Chinese government’s stance on the Middle Way Approach, the situation of religious and cultural freedom inside Tibet, and the level of international support for Tibet’s cause. Both the Representative and Secretary offered detailed responses, while also encouraging students to further explore the geopolitical relevance of Tibet and the crucial role of the Tibetan Plateau in global climate stability.

Dr. Pedersen expressed his appreciation to the Representative and staff of the Office of Tibet, noting that the session provided his students with a uniquely “interesting and insightful” learning experience. At the conclusion of the visit, students received CTA publications and information materials on the Middle Way Policy, Tibet’s climate crisis, and related issues.

This annual tradition between the University of Westminster and the Office of Tibet continues to offer students a valuable opportunity to observe how the Office of Tibet London navigates the dual responsibilities of diplomatic engagement and political advocacy—despite the challenges posed by the CTA’s lack of formal state recognition.

– Report filed by Office of Tibet. London