Brussels, May 1: The European Parliament has strongly condemned China’s ‘Ethnic Unity Law’. This legislation, set to take effect on July 1, is seen as a systematic attempt to erase the cultural, religious, and linguistic identity of the Tibetan people. It emphasizes the imposition of state ideology and prioritizes Mandarin over local languages in public spaces.
A resolution opposing this law was passed in the European Parliament, with 439 members voting in favor, 52 against, and 71 abstaining.
European lawmakers asserted that the selection of the Dalai Lama‘s successor is a purely religious matter and should be determined solely according to Tibetan Buddhist traditions, without any government interference.
The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) called for the immediate and unconditional release of several prominent political prisoners, including the 11th Panchen Lama Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, Chötrul Dorje Rinpoche, and Palden Yeshi, all of whom have been subjects of international concern for an extended period.
The CTA stated that the European Parliament is taking steps to protect Tibetan communities from Chinese influence. Lawmakers also noted that the impact of this law extends beyond China, potentially affecting Tibetans living in other countries. Consequently, they urged EU nations to suspend their extradition agreements with China to prevent pressure and repression on Tibetans abroad.
The resolution suggested that the EU should implement the “EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime” against officials who violate human rights. During the debate, the European Commission’s Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, expressed concern over the human rights situation in Tibet.
He emphasized that freedom of religion and belief, the protection of culture and identity, and the right for religious communities to manage their own affairs must be upheld. Government interference in the selection of religious leaders should be avoided, and respect for religious traditions is essential in matters involving figures like the Dalai Lama.
He also indicated that the EU will continue to seek accurate information regarding the 11th Panchen Lama and his health status. Welcoming the resolution, the representative of the Dalai Lama’s office in Brussels, Rigzin Jenkhang, thanked the European Parliament. She highlighted the importance of maintaining international attention to hold China accountable and support efforts to preserve Tibetan culture and religious heritage.
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