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Key Points

Over 200 Tibetans and activists gathered in Zurich to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 11th Panchen Lama’s disappearance. The event, organized by Tibetan groups, called for Chinese accountability and transparency. Speakers highlighted the ongoing human rights crisis in Tibet, linking the Panchen Lama’s case to broader religious oppression. A petition was submitted to the Chinese Embassy, renewing global pressure for answers.

Key Points: Tibetans Mark 30 Years Since Panchen Lama Disappearance in Zurich

  • Event marks 30 years since Panchen Lama’s disappearance
  • CTA highlights ongoing human rights crisis in Tibet
  • Global petition urges Chinese transparency
  • Tibetan groups demand justice for religious persecution
2 min read

Zurich gathering marks 30 years since disappearance of 11th Panchen Lama

Over 200 gathered in Zurich demanding justice for the 11th Panchen Lama, missing since 1995, as Tibetans renew calls for Chinese accountability.

"The global community’s ongoing insistence on learning the truth about the Panchen Rinpoche demonstrates that he has not been forgotten. – Karma Gahler, TYAE"

Zurich, May 19

Over 200 Tibetans and human rights advocates gathered in Zurich on Saturday to mark the 30th anniversary of the enforced disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima.

The event, held on May 17, 2025, was organised as part of a global appeal for justice and accountability, according to a report by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA).

The CTA stated that the gathering highlighted the ongoing human rights crisis in Tibet and underscored one of the most serious and prolonged cases of religious persecution in modern history.

Despite three decades of appeals from the United Nations, governments, and international human rights organisations, the Chinese authorities have continued to withhold credible information about the Panchen Lama's status and whereabouts, the CTA said.

The event was co-hosted by the Tibetan Youth Association in Europe (TYAE) and the Swiss Tibetan Women's Association. It began with welcoming remarks from the organisers, followed by the Tibetan national anthem and a moment of silence to honour those who have lost their lives for the Tibetan cause and the families they left behind.

According to the Central Tibetan Administration, Pasang Dolma Youdutsang, Co-President of the Tibetan Women's Association, delivered a powerful appeal urging the international community to hold the Chinese government accountable and demand transparency. The petition, expressing the unified concerns of the Tibetan people, was formally handed over to the Chinese Embassy through its security staff.

In his speech, Karma Gahler, Co-President of TYAE, said the disappearance of the Panchen Lama symbolises the broader issue of religious and cultural oppression in Tibet. He stated, "The global community's ongoing insistence on learning the truth about the Panchen Rinpoche demonstrates that he has not been forgotten."

As reported by the CTA, the gathering in Zurich formed part of a global movement aimed at increasing pressure on the Chinese government to disclose the whereabouts and well-being of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. Recognised by the 14th Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lama at the age of six, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was taken into custody by Chinese authorities just days later. He has remained missing since May 17, 1995.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is truly heartbreaking. As Indians, we understand the importance of religious freedom and cultural identity. The Panchen Lama's disappearance reflects a pattern we've seen in Tibet for decades. China must answer for this. 🙏
P
Priya M.
While we must condemn human rights violations, India needs to be careful about how we engage with Tibet issues. Our relationship with China is complicated enough already with border disputes. Strategic diplomacy is important.
A
Amit S.
30 years is too long for any family to wait for answers! The international community has failed Tibetans. India should take stronger moral leadership on this issue given our historical ties with Tibetan Buddhism.
S
Sunita R.
The Tibetan cause deserves more attention in Indian media. We're quick to talk about Pakistan but often silent on China's human rights record. Double standards? 🤔
V
Vikram J.
Let's not forget India hosts His Holiness the Dalai Lama and thousands of Tibetan refugees. We've done our part. Now other countries need to step up pressure on China through economic and diplomatic channels.
N
Neha P.
The courage of these activists is inspiring! But I worry - will these protests actually change anything? China seems immune to international pressure when it comes to Tibet. Maybe we need new strategies.

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