Tibet, once an independent sovereign nation, was invaded by China in 1949-50, leading to the loss of countless lives in the ensuing battles. Following the occupation, Tibetans endured severe suppression of their freedoms, particularly under the Communist ideology and the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976). Unfortunately, Tibet's unique cultural, national, and religious identity continues to be at significant risk due to China's ongoing policies.

China’s Occupation of Tibet

The Chinese occupation has resulted in the destruction of Tibet's independence, cultural heritage, religion, environment, and the fundamental human rights of its people. Despite breaking international laws and frequently violating its own constitution, China has faced minimal consequences for its actions.

Historical Context of Tibetan Independence

With a history spanning over 2,000 years, Tibet was recognized as an independent nation until China’s invasion. In 1914, a peace convention involving China, Britain, and Tibet reaffirmed Tibet’s sovereignty. However, due to a lack of representation in global institutions such as the United Nations, Tibet’s occupation largely went unchecked.

Tibetans have persistently advocated for independence through peaceful means, but even minor expressions of their desire for freedom, such as children whispering "Tibet is independent" or "Long Live His Holiness the Dalai Lama," are harshly punished by Chinese authorities. Possessing a Tibetan national flag can result in lengthy prison sentences. As of 1998, over 1,000 Tibetans remain incarcerated for their political or religious beliefs, including women and minors.

Geography of Tibet

Tibet, officially known as the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), covers an area of approximately 1.22 million square kilometers (470,920 square miles), constituting 12.8% of China's total landmass. It shares borders with several regions of China, including Xinjiang, Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan, as well as neighboring countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, Burma, and Sikkim. With an average elevation of 4,000 meters above sea level, Tibet is home to some of the world’s highest mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, the Karakoram, and the Kunlun.

This vast land is also the source of several major rivers, including the Yangtze, Yellow, Nu (Salween), Lancang (Mekong), Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra), Indus, and Ganges. Tibet’s breathtaking scenery features stunning lakes, valleys, and an awe-inspiring landscape that attracts adventurers and mountaineers from around the globe.