Brussels, May 1: The European Parliament has strongly condemned China’s ‘Ethnic Unity Law’. This legislation, set to take effect on July 1, is viewed 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.
Members of the European Parliament stated that the selection of the Dalai Lama’s successor is a purely religious matter, which should be determined solely according to Tibetan Buddhist traditions, without any governmental interference.
The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has 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 long been subjects of international concern.
The CTA emphasized 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, EU nations have been urged to suspend their extradition agreements with China to prevent pressure and oppression on Tibetans abroad.
The resolution calls for the European Union to implement the “EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime” against officials guilty of human rights violations. During the debate, the European Commission’s Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, expressed concern over the human rights situation in Tibet.
She stated that freedom of religion and belief, 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, especially in matters concerning the Dalai Lama, is essential.
She also noted that the European Union will continue to seek accurate information regarding the 11th Panchen Lama’s situation and health. Welcoming the resolution, Rigzin Jenkhang, a representative from the Dalai Lama’s office in Brussels, thanked the European Parliament. She emphasized the importance of maintaining international attention to hold China accountable and support efforts to preserve Tibetan culture and religious heritage.
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