Prague Declaration Backs Tibetan Religious Freedom

Prague Declaration on Freedom of Religion or Belief 2025 reaffirmed the Tibetan Buddhist community’s right to choose the successor of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama without state interference. According to Tibet.net, the statement followed Sikyong Penpa Tsering’s appeal at the IRFBA anniversary conference in Prague, where he warned of China’s growing attempts to control the 15th Dalai Lama’s recognition. He presented a letter from His Holiness and urged stronger international support. The declaration stated that freedom of religion includes selecting religious leaders. Representative Thinlay Chukki welcomed the clear affirmation as vital for protecting Tibetan spiritual traditions.