Protests by Tibetans, Chinese Christian communities in Geneva
Geneva: On the opening day of the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), more than 80 demonstrators gathered in Geneva to highlight the worsening human rights situation in Tibet. The peaceful protest brought together Tibetans, members of the Suisse Romande Tibet Support Group, and Chinese Christian communities, including representatives from The House Church and The Church of Almighty God.
Held on 23 February 2026, the demonstration was organised by the Tibetan Community in Switzerland and Liechtenstein (TCSL). Among those present were Representative Thinley Chukki; TCSL President Ngedun Gyatso Drongpatsang; Vice President Kalsang Namgyal Kangrang; members of the TCSL Executive Committee; and executive members of the Tibetan Youth Association in Europe. From the Tibet Bureau in Geneva, UN Advocacy Officer Phuntsok Topgyal and Chinese Liaison Officer Sangay Kyab also joined the protest.
Addressing the gathering, Representative Thinley Chukki underscored the urgency of sustained international attention on Tibet. She recalled the deaths of more than one million Tibetans since 1959 and the destruction of approximately 6,000 monasteries. She also drew attention to the large-scale enrolment of over one million Tibetan children—some as young as four—into state-run boarding schools, describing the policy as a systematic effort to sever children from their language, culture, and religious identity.
“This peaceful demonstration reflects the unwavering commitment of the Tibetan people to justice and fundamental rights,” she stated. “Though progress may appear slow, our collective efforts will ultimately bear fruit.”
During the protest, UN Special Rapporteur Nicolas highlighted credible reports concerning the forced enrolment of Tibetan children in state-run schools, characterising the policy as part of a broader pattern of repression and cultural erosion in Tibet.
Representative Thinley Chukki also raised serious concerns over restrictions on religious freedom imposed by the People’s Republic of China in Tibet, including interference in the recognition of the reincarnation of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.
The 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council is taking place in Geneva from 23 February to 31 March 2026, convening member states and civil society organisations to address pressing human rights challenges worldwide.