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Key Points

European lawmakers are demanding answers from China about the missing Panchen Lama, 30 years after his disappearance. The MEPs called for the EU to take a stronger stance in its human rights dialogue with Beijing. The Panchen Lama, recognized by the Dalai Lama, was detained by Chinese authorities in 1995 and has not been seen since. His case remains a symbol of Tibet's ongoing struggle for religious freedom.

Key Points: MEPs Press EU on Missing Panchen Lama 30 Years After Disappearance

  • MEPs challenge EU to prioritize Panchen Lama case in China talks
  • China detained the Dalai Lama-recognized Panchen Lama in 1995
  • Tibet's religious repression remains unresolved
  • EU urged to adopt stronger stance on human rights
2 min read

MEPs demand answers from EU on 30th anniversary of Panchen Lama's disappearance

European lawmakers demand answers from China on the 30th anniversary of the Panchen Lama's disappearance, urging stronger EU action on Tibet human rights.

"The 11th Panchen Lama turns 36 on 25 April 2025. But where is he? China is answerable to the world. - MEPs"

Brussels, May 20

Seven Member of the European Parliament (MEPs) from four different political groups tabled urgent questions to the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, pressing for answers about the Panchen Lama's fate and urging the European Union to take a firmer stance in its human rights dialogue with China, the Central Tibetan Administration reported.

"The 11th Panchen Lama turns 36 on 25 April 2025. But where is he? China is answerable to the world." This powerful message was displayed by Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in a symbolic action marking the birthday of Gedun Choekyi Nyima, the 11th Panchen Lama of Tibet, who has been missing since 1995.

As reported by Central Tibetan Administration, the gesture was part of a broader effort by MEPs to highlight the 30th anniversary of his enforced disappearance and to renew international calls for his release.

The Dalai Lama recognised Gedun Choekyi Nyima in May 1995 as the 11th Panchen Lama, one of Tibetan Buddhism's most revered figures. Just days later, he and his family were taken into custody by Chinese authorities, and he has not been seen in public since.

His disappearance remains one of the most prominent unresolved cases of religious repression in China.

MEPs are calling on the EU to prioritise his case in diplomatic engagements and ensure it is consistently raised in both bilateral and multilateral settings. They stress that the EU must adopt a stronger, coordinated approach to uphold religious freedom and demand accountability from Beijing.

As the EU continues its engagement with China, the fate of the Panchen Lama remains a powerful symbol of the broader struggle for human rights and religious freedom in Tibet.

China took control of Tibet in 1950 as part of what it described as the "peaceful liberation" of the region. The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, fled into exile in India after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. He has called Beijing's control a "cultural genocide", Al Jazeera reported.

Beijing claims he is a dangerous separatist and instead recognises the current Panchen Lama as the highest religious figure in Tibet. The Panchen Lama was installed by the party, as per Al Jazeera.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
As Indians, we understand the pain of religious suppression. The Panchen Lama's case shows China's disregard for Tibetan culture. While we must focus on our own border issues with China, we can't ignore human rights violations. Hope EU takes strong action! 🇮🇳
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Priya M.
This is heartbreaking. Tibet has always had deep cultural connections with India through Buddhism. China's actions remind us why we must protect our own diverse traditions. But I wonder - is the EU doing enough beyond symbolic gestures?
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Arjun S.
While China's actions are concerning, India must be careful in how we respond. We share a long border with China and have our own complex relationship. The EU can afford to be vocal, but we need strategic diplomacy. Still, basic human rights can't be ignored.
S
Sunita R.
China's treatment of Tibet is shameful. As host to His Holiness Dalai Lama, India has a special responsibility towards Tibetan culture. But we must balance this with practical diplomacy. Maybe quiet pressure works better than loud protests? 🤔
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Vikram J.
After 30 years, it's clear China won't change its Tibet policy. The EU raising this issue is good, but will it actually help the Panchen Lama? Meanwhile, we in India continue to welcome Tibetan refugees while managing our relationship with China. It's a delicate balance.
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Neha P.
China talks about 'peaceful liberation' but where's the peace in disappearing religious leaders? As Indians, we know the value of religious freedom. But I worry - if powerful EU can't get answers, what hope do others have? 😔

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