Dharamshala: The Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR) of the Central Tibetan Administration officially commenced the 3rd International Tibet Youth Forum (ITYF) this morning in Dharamshala. This year’s forum brings together over 95 Tibetan youth from more than 15 countries, representing a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to the Tibetan cause.
The inaugural session of the three-day seminar was held this morning, presided over by the Chief Guest, Richard Gere, Chairman of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT).
Additional Secretary and official spokesperson of the Central Tibetan Administration, Tenzin Lekshay delivered the welcome address, emphasising the crucial role of Tibetan youth in sustaining the movement beyond the confines of the forum. He encouraged participants to carry forward the collective spirit and responsibilities after the three-day gathering concludes.
Emphasising the evolving nature of global advocacy, he encouraged the participants to remain informed, united, and proactive in amplifying Tibet’s voice on international platforms. Following a brief overview of the forum’s agenda, he extended his best wishes to all the participants for a meaningful and successful engagement.
Following the welcome session, Richard Gere, the chief guest of the forum and Chairman of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), addressed the gathering. In his remarks, he stated that the Tibetan struggle is not solely about Tibetans but represents a broader humanitarian and moral cause that resonates with people across the globe. Expressing his delight at the diverse participation of Tibetan youth from various countries, he commended their enthusiasm and commitment to the cause.
He also highlighted the positive outcome of the recently concluded 15th Tibetan Religious Conference, particularly the reaffirmation of the continuation of the institution of His Holiness the Dalai Lama Trust, calling it a source of hope and strength for the Tibetan people and their supporters worldwide.
Richard Gere also stressed the deep importance of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s leadership, reminding the youth that they are fortunate to live in the time of such an extraordinary spiritual and moral guide. He encouraged them to embody His Holiness’ values of compassion, non-violence, and universal responsibility.
He concluded by expressing hope that the Tibetan movement would be further strengthened through this youth forum, as young Tibetans continue to rise with clarity, courage, and a strong sense of identity to carry the cause forward into the global arena.
During the morning session of the forum, a recorded message from His Holiness the Dalai Lama, originally delivered on 18 July 2023, was screened for the participants. In the video, His Holiness highlighted the vital role of compassion as the core of Tibetan Buddhism and culture.
Expressing gratitude to all participants and contributors, Dukthen Kyi, Joint Secretary and head of the Human Rights Desk offered concluding acknowledgements on behalf of the organisers.
Later, following the tea break, a special talk session and interactive dialogue were held with Kasur Jetsun Pema, former President of the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV). The session moderated by Tenzin Norzin of V-TAG Australia. She provided participants with the opportunity to engage directly with one of the most respected figures in the Tibetan schools and community.
Kasur Jetsun Pema acknowledges the international Tibetan youths and VTAG members for their participation in the event, acknowledging their journey from abroad to Dharamshala. During her address, she underlined the critical role of education in personal empowerment and Tibet’s advocacy on the global platform. She highlighted that through education, Tibetan youth can effectively serve their community. A key point of her message was the importance of self-reliance, encouraging the youth to become independent to the extent that they can support children within their own community. She underscored this by quoting, “You are your own master.”
In her inspiring talk, Kasur Jetsun Pema, former President of the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV), emphasised the need for young Tibetans to carry forward the Tibetan movement with commitment and gratitude. “We must sustain our movement,” she urged, reminding the youth of the sacrifices made by the first generation of Tibetans in exile—those who, despite having no formal education or experience, placed their unwavering faith in His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and worked tirelessly to create opportunities for future generations.
Reflecting on the early years of exile, she noted that many Tibetans then lacked access to education, and elders often did not understand its value. However, under the guidance and foresight of His Holiness, education became a central pillar of the exile community’s development. As a result, generations of Tibetan children have since had the opportunity to attend school and pursue higher studies.
Kasur Jetsun Pema also shared her journey of serving as the President of TCV for over 42 years. She expressed deep gratitude to the countless sponsors and supporters worldwide who made Tibetan education possible, noting that approximately 8 million dollars funds the network of schools and higher education scholarships.
The guest speakers invited to engage with the youth included Karma Lekshey, Director, and Sonam Dechen, Associate Director of the Tibetan Centre for Conflict Resolution (TCCR), as well as Passang Lhamo, V-TAG Germany Coordinator, and Ngawang Choden, V-TAG India Coordinator.
In the evening, a special open mic session was held with Sikyong Penpa Tsering, the executive head of the Central Tibetan Administration, providing youth participants an opportunity to engage directly with the Tibetan leadership.
Sikyong addressed a wide range of questions, most notably on the Middle Way Approach, elaborating on its evolution since 1973 under the visionary guidance of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. He also spoke about the V-TAG initiative, stressing the importance of youth-led grassroots activism and the responsibilities Tibetan youth must assume in the 21st century.
Highlighting his recent official visit to Europe, including London, UK, Sikyong reflected on the growing international engagement with the Tibetan issue. He further outlined the key undertakings of the 16th Kashag, reaffirming the CTA’s consistent and strategic stance on Tibet’s political future. And CTA adopting a consistent stance on Tibet.
Sikyong also emphasised the importance of informed activism and encouraged participants to deepen their understanding of Tibetan history, geopolitics, and the Central Tibetan Administration’s consistent stance and diplomatic engagement on the issue of Tibet. He underscored that advocacy grounded in truth and clarity—particularly by the younger generation—is essential for sustaining and expanding international support for the Tibetan cause.
This three-day forum has been organised as part of the Central Tibetan Administration’s renewed commitment, under the leadership of Sikyong Penpa Tsering, to prioritise Tibet advocacy as one of the core strategies in the ongoing pursuit of freedom for Tibet. The forum aims to provide a shared space for young Tibetans to exchange ideas, raise concerns, discuss challenges, and collectively explore a forward-looking and strategic path in our struggle for justice and freedom.
Responding to several questions on the role of youth in exile, Sikyong reiterated that the future of the Tibetan movement depends on the active participation, unity, and initiative of Tibetan youth around the globe. He urged participants not only to carry forward the political struggle but also to preserve the unique Tibetan identity through language, culture, and values.
The open mic session concluded with deep appreciation for the candid and open exchange with Sikyong Penpa Tsering. The opportunity for direct dialogue between Tibetan youth left them more informed about their roles in the broader Tibetan freedom movement.
Today’s session marks the commencement of the three-day forum, with discussions, talk sessions, presentations, and interactive activities scheduled to continue over the next two days.
