Spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism and symbol of Tibetan unity
China has enacted a law to promote ethnic unity, mandating Mandarin nationwide and allowing overseas enforcement. Critics warn it narrows minority rights, while rights groups urge repeal. The law has triggered protests and international concern.
A Tibetan activist identified as Lobga Rangzen has self-immolated outside the U.N. in New York, prompting investigations. The incident has intensified scrutiny of China’s policies toward Tibet, the new ethnic unity law, and international responses from the U.S. and EU. Authorities are investigating motives as activists call for independence and autonomy.
A sweeping Chinese law on ethnic unity has sparked criticism for cultural suppression, with Tibetan communities facing increased pressure to assimilate. The law, implemented July 1, bans acts seen as dividing China’s 56 ethnic groups and elevates Mandarin in schools and government work. Reports from AP and other outlets show government oversight of journalism trips and visible state propaganda in Tibet.
The International Association for Tibetan Studies has cancelled a Nepal conference scheduled for Aug. 23-26 after government officials asked organizers not to proceed. Nepal cites China ties and pro-Tibetan activities as grounds, and protests by Tibetan refugees have been suppressed in the past. The Dalai Lama remains in exile in India.
Leaders from BRICS and newly admitted members have arrived in New Delhi for a two-day summit beginning Sept. 12. Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian have travelled to India; Narendra Modi has held bilateral talks with several visitors. Delegates are confronting the US‑Israel war on Iran, the Ukraine conflict, trade tensions and energy security.
BRICS leaders gather in New Delhi amid tensions from the US–Iran war, amid broader global upheaval. The expanded bloc faces divisions over how to respond to Middle East conflicts, energy markets, and trade wars, while stressing a Global South-led reform agenda.
BRICS leaders have adopted the New Delhi Declaration, calling for maximum restraint in the Middle East, protection of civilians and nuclear facilities, and opposing unilateral trade measures. The statement has avoided naming the US, Israel or Iran and authorised a payments task force to ease local‑currency settlements among members.