Dharamshala – Latvian Member of Parliament Juris Vilums met with leaders of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile today, March 7, 2026, to discuss the political situation in Tibet and the challenges faced by the Tibetan people under the occupation of the People’s Republic of China. The visit underscores continued international concern regarding human rights and cultural preservation within Tibet.
The meeting, held in Dharamshala, involved discussions with Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel and Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang. Central to the conversation was the ongoing impact of Chinese policies on Tibetan identity, particularly the coercive boarding school system targeting Tibetan children. This visit builds on a history of engagement between Latvia and the Tibetan community, demonstrating a sustained commitment to supporting Tibetan democracy and self-determination.
Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel expressed gratitude for Vilums’ participation in the 9th World Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet, held in Tokyo last year, noting the importance of such international forums in raising awareness about the situation in Tibet. He also highlighted the historical connection between Tibet and the Baltic states, recalling the 7th World Parliamentarians’ Convention on Tibet, which took place in Riga, Latvia, in 2019. That convention was supported by the Latvian Tibet Support Group, chaired by Janis, and the Latvian Parliamentary Support Group for Tibet.
Shared Experiences of Occupation and the Pursuit of Independence
Both Latvia and Tibet share a history of foreign occupation, a point emphasized during the meeting. Latvia successfully regained its independence in 1990, a milestone that offers a beacon of hope for the Tibetan people, according to the Speaker. He stressed that the Tibetan cause extends beyond the Tibetan community itself, encompassing concerns about the preservation of a unique culture, environment, and religious tradition that holds global significance.
Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang echoed this sentiment, stating that Latvia’s own struggle for independence serves as an inspiration for Tibetans. She welcomed Vilums’ visit as a demonstration of solidarity with democracy and truth, and a message of encouragement to Tibetans living under PRC rule. The Deputy Speaker specifically addressed the concerning trend of politically motivated boarding schools in Tibet, explaining how these institutions aim to suppress Tibetan language, religion, and culture while promoting allegiance to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The Evolution of Tibetan Democracy
The discussions also covered the remarkable evolution of Tibetan democracy, a process initiated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 1960. The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile was established on September 2, 1960, marking a pivotal moment in the development of self-governance. This was followed by the election of the first Kalon Tripa (Prime Minister) in 2001 and the first Sikyong in 2011. Today, both the Sikyong and Parliamentarians are directly elected by the Tibetan diaspora, representing a significant step towards a fully democratic system.
The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile convenes biannual sessions and engages in various outreach programs, demonstrating its commitment to representing the interests of the Tibetan people. The Deputy Speaker outlined these initiatives, providing Vilums with a comprehensive overview of the Central Tibetan Administration’s structure and operations.
The Latvian Parliamentary Support Group for Tibet was specifically acknowledged as a key advocate for the Tibetan cause, with Vilums recognized for his significant contributions to the group’s work. This ongoing support from international parliamentarians is crucial in keeping the issue of Tibet on the global agenda.
As the situation inside Tibet remains a pressing concern, continued dialogue and international attention are vital. The visit by MP Vilums serves as a reminder of the global solidarity with the Tibetan people and their pursuit of a peaceful and democratic future.
What comes next will likely involve continued advocacy from international lawmakers and organizations, alongside efforts to document and raise awareness about the human rights situation within Tibet. Share your thoughts on this important visit in the comments below.
