Zurich Marks 30th Anniversary of Panchen Lama’s Enforced Disappearance with Campaign and Global Appeal
Over 200 Tibetans and human rights supporters gathered in Zurich, Switzerland, on Saturday to mark the 30th anniversary of the enforced disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, His Serenity Jetsun Tenzin Gedhun Yeshi Trinley Phuntsok Pal Sangpo, with a campaign and global appeal. The event took place on 17 May 2025.
The event underscored the ongoing human rights violations in Tibet and growing international concern about one of the world’s most serious cases of religious persecution, while also calling for increased international action.
For the past three decades, despite appeals from the United Nations, government and human rights organisations, China has failed to provide credible information about Gedhun Choekyi Nyima’s status or whereabouts. The event was jointly organised by the Tibetan Youth Association and the Swiss Tibetan Women’s Association.
The program began with the organising committee welcoming participants to the peaceful demonstration, followed by singing the Tibetan national anthem and observing a minute of silence in solidarity with those who have sacrificed their lives for Tibet and their bereaved families.
Pasang Dolma Youdutsang, Co-President of the Tibetan Women’s Association, read a powerful petition calling for global justice and truth, urging China to provide transparent information regarding the situation of the Panchen Rinpoche. This petition, highlighting Tibetan concerns, was formally submitted to the Chinese Embassy through security personnel.
Following this, Karma Gahler, Co-President of Tibetan Youth Association in Europe, emphasised that the continued disappearance of the Panchen Rinpoche symbolises the ongoing religious and cultural repression in Tibet. He also pointed out that the international demand for his release on this significant anniversary serves as a testament that the Panchen Rinpoche has not been forgotten.
Following these speeches, a peaceful protest march proceeded from Zurich city to the Chinese Embassy. Protesters carried Tibetan flags and images with slogans such as “Where is the Panchen Rinpoche?” and “Free Tibet,” chanting in Tibetan, German, and English.
Upon arriving at the Chinese Embassy, a second round of speeches commenced, offering in-depth insights into Tibet’s political struggle, the situation of the Panchen Rinpoche, and the preservation of Tibetan culture and religion.
Geshe Tenzin Jangchub, the abbot of Rikon Monastery, delivered a poignant address on the Panchen Rinpoche’s critical responsibilities. He explained to the gathered protesters the vital role the Panchen Lama plays in safeguarding Tibetan Buddhism, highlighting how the legacy of the 10th Panchen Lama embodies courage, truth, and the unwavering commitment to cultural preservation.
Thinlay Chukki, the Swiss Representative of the Tibetan government-in-exile, noted: “Today marks 30 years since the Panchen Rinpoche’s enforced disappearance. For thirty years, the world has been unable to determine his whereabouts and well-being. During these 30 years, he has been denied the opportunity to freely study and practice Tibetan Buddhism.”
She pointed out that despite multiple UN Special Rapporteurs issuing statements about the Panchen Rinpoche, China claims he is living a normal life and does not wish to be disturbed. “If true, why do Chinese authorities prevent international organisations from verifying his status and condition?” she asked. She also expressed gratitude for the continued support from international figures, including German MP Michael Brand and parliamentarians from Switzerland and Italy, who have called for his release and restoration of his rights.
Kalsang Namgyal, Vice President of the Tibetan Community in Switzerland, urged young Tibetans to take greater responsibility. Norden Pema, President of the Swiss-Tibetan Friendship Association, read a statement from the Swiss Parliamentary Group for Tibet marking the 30th anniversary of the Panchen Rinpoche’s disappearance, followed by a prayer.
The Tibetan Youth Association called on international leaders to take action and demand the release of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. The event concluded with closing remarks from the organisers thanking everyone for the peaceful march.
