HRW calls for global action on 30th anniversary of Panchen Lama’s disappearance

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has urged global governments, especially those with large Buddhist populations, to demand answers from China regarding the disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. Recognized by the Dalai Lama in 1995, Gedhun vanished at age six and remains missing. HRW stated Chinese authorities subsequently imposed a state-selected Panchen Lama and intensified repression in Tibet, including mass surveillance, enforced relocations, and restrictions on religion. HRW highlighted that 160 Tibetans have self-immolated in protest since 2009 and called for international efforts to protect Tibetan religious freedoms.