For 66 long years, China has attempted to impose its rule over Tibet, yet it has spectacularly failed to win the hearts and minds of the Tibetan people. Despite relentless efforts through economic, political, and cultural policies, the Chinese government has not succeeded in gaining the genuine support and loyalty of Tibetans. This failure can be attributed to three key factors: economic exploitation, political repression, and cultural erosion.
China’s economic policies in Tibet have been touted as developmental, but they have largely served to benefit Chinese interests at the expense of Tibetans. Infrastructure projects like the Qinghai-Tibet Railway have facilitated the influx of Chinese settlers, which has led to the economic marginalization of Tibetans. The economic benefits promised by these projects have largely bypassed the Tibetan population, deepening the socio-economic divide and fuelling resentment. Rather than bringing prosperity to Tibetans, these policies have exacerbated their economic struggles and fostered a sense of exploitation.
The Chinese government’s political control measures have been draconian and oppressive. Tibetan political dissent has been met with brutal crackdowns, arbitrary detentions, and human rights abuses. The imposition of strict surveillance, censorship, and re-education programs has created an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. The Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) heavy-handed approach has only strengthened Tibetan resolve to resist and fight for their autonomy. The lack of political freedoms and self-determination has been a significant factor in the failure to win over Tibetans.
Perhaps the most profound reason for the failure of Chinese policies in Tibet is the systematic erosion of Tibetan culture and religion. The CCP has sought to Sinicize Tibetan culture, imposing Mandarin Chinese as the primary language and restricting religious practices. Monasteries have been demolished, religious leaders persecuted, and Tibetan traditions undermined. These actions have been perceived as an existential threat to the very identity of the Tibetan people. The deep-seated attachment to their cultural and religious heritage has fuelled Tibetan resistance and a strong sense of national identity.
Despite six decades of Chinese occupation, the spirit of Tibetans remains unbroken. From the 1959 uprising to the more recent self-immolation protests, Tibetans have continually voiced their opposition to Chinese rule. The Tibetan government in exile, led by the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), has played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of Tibetans and keeping their struggle alive on the international stage.
If China truly wishes to achieve stability in Tibet, it must address the legitimate grievances of the Tibetan people and respect their cultural and religious rights. Only then can there be hope for a peaceful and harmonious future
* Nephew of the Dalai Lama, Khedroob Thondup is a geopolitical analyst.