In a peaceful demonstration outside the Palace of Nations in Geneva, 45 members of the Tibetan community from Switzerland and Liechtenstein gathered to demand an end to the recent severe measures in Derge, Tibet. This protest coincided with the start of the 55th session of the Human Rights Council, bringing attention to the plight of Tibetans under Chinese policies.
The group, including representatives from the Swiss-Tibetan Friendship Association and former Tibetan Parliament members, voiced their concerns through slogans and prayers, highlighting the situation back home. Jacques Arnal, from the Swiss-Tibet Friendship Association, and notable members of the Tibetan community, such as Ngawang Gyaltsen Gangshontsang, took part in this significant event, as reported by Tibet.net.
During the protest, Karma Choekyi, leading the Swiss and Liechtenstein Tibetan Community Association, made the opening remarks, emphasizing the sacrifices of Tibetan martyrs. The group also performed the Tibetan National Anthem as a sign of unity and resistance.
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A critical aspect of the protest was the delivery of a petition letter to the United Nations, urging immediate action against the crackdown in Derge County, where over 1000 Tibetans, including monks, have been detained. These detentions followed appeals to the Chinese government to cease dam construction projects and the forced relocation of Tibetan people, highlighting the ongoing struggle for rights and autonomy in the region.
Phuntsok Topgyal, representing the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibet Bureau in Geneva, called on the international community to stand against the repression faced by Tibetans. He urged for continuous support until the Tibet–China conflict is resolved, as per the statements collected by Tibet.net.
This protest in Geneva serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues in Tibet and the diaspora’s efforts to seek justice and human rights for their people. The Tibetan community, along with international supporters, hopes for a resolution that respects the rights and freedoms of Tibetans in their homeland.
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