What will happen when the Dalai Lama turns 90?
The Dalai Lama will use this milestone to encourage planning for the future without him and address the possibility of another Dalai Lama.
World / Asian Affairs
As the Dalai Lama nears his 90th birthday in July 2025, exiled Tibetans are considering their future and the critical question of his succession. This article examines the Dalai Lama's influence, China's potential role in selecting his succ...
The Dalai Lama's impending 90th birthday serves as a pivotal moment for Tibetans both in exile and within Tibet. With the potential for China to attempt to influence the selection of his successor, the future of Tibetan autonomy hangs in the balance.
The Dalai Lama has already taken steps to prepare for the future, including devolving political power to a democratically elected government-in-exile in 2011. However, his moral authority and symbolic status remain irreplaceable.
China's historical actions, such as the selection of their own Panchen Lama in 1995, demonstrate their intent to interfere in Tibetan religious affairs. The Dalai Lama has made it clear that his successor must be born in the free world, signaling a rejection of any Chinese-appointed candidate.
The enduring loyalty of the Tibetan people to the Dalai Lama, even in the face of Chinese suppression, highlights the strength of their cultural and spiritual identity. The future will depend on the ability of Tibetans to maintain their traditions and values while navigating complex political realities.
The Dalai Lama will use this milestone to encourage planning for the future without him and address the possibility of another Dalai Lama.
China views Tibet as an integral part of the country and seeks to exert control over the region, including through the selection of religious leaders.
He has transferred political power to a democratically elected government-in-exile but retains moral authority and symbolic status.
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