International Conference of Autonomous Regions for Tibet

This conference brought together representatives of 10 autonomous regions in the world to share their experiences and to understand what could be useful for the Tibet case, to examine ways and means to support Tibet’s right to genuine autonomy and to forge stronger links with the Tibetan administration-in-exile. Each participant from an autonomous region presented a detailed case study of their respective autonomous setup, while Kalon Tempa Tsering, Minister for the Department of Information and International Relations (DIIR), Central Tibetan Administration, presented a broad outline of the Middle Way Approach of the Dalai Lama and the current status of negotiations on the issue of Tibet.

Prof. Rinpoche with Representatives of AR

The representatives from the autonomous regions also had an opportunity to visit Dharamsala prior to the conference 16-18th November, to understand the aspirations of Tibetans first hand. They received an audience with the Dalai Lama. During the meeting, he briefed them on issues that he considered important for resolving the Tibet issue. The delegation also met Prof. Samdhong Rinpoche, Kalon Tripa of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), who updated them about the Sino-Tibetan dialogue process, aspirations of the Tibetan people in dealing with China and obstacles in its way. While the Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament Mr. Karma T.T.K. Chomphel explained the functioning of the parliament.

Senior members of the exile administration as well as members of the Tibetan Parliament in exile attended the conference. This programme is part of a series of programmes on the topic of autonomy organised by TPPRC and FNSt.

The Five Point Peace Plan announced in 1987 by the Dalai Lama seeks a genuine self-governance which allows Tibetans to live in freedom and dignity, to freely practice and preserve their religion and culture and be able to engage in the political, social and economic spheres of life. Research and discussion on issues of Autonomy assumes great significance in the light of China’s stand to hold negotiations with the Dalai Lama on all issues except independence on the one hand, and the consistent position to find a non-violent, amicable and a mutually beneficial negotiated solution to the problem of Tibet which seeks genuine autonomy within the sovereignty of China, on the other. At this crucial juncture the Tibetan Administration seeks inputs on all matters related to autonomy. Our joint project with the Tibetan Parliamentary and Policy Research Centre (TPPRC) plays an important role here.

There are over 40 autonomous arrangements the world over, although the term 'autonomy‘ has no generally accepted definition, since one autonomous arrangement can be completely different from the other. Autonomy ensures genuine decentralisation and devolution of power. It allows a distinct community or people to govern itself with respect to those areas that are of particular importance to it, and is therefore seen as a key to development, good governance, democracy and better protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The concept of autonomy thus addresses key liberal concerns.

Autonomous arrangements have significantly contributed in maintaining the unity of states while at the same time respecting the diversity of peoples and cultures. Autonomy is not a first step in the break up of states. The contrary is true: many states could not exist without accommodating this diversity through decentralization and autonomy.

Rebon Banerjee
Executive, Programmes