Tibetans Protest China’s Ethnic Unity Law at UNHRC in Geneva, Seek UN Action

Oct 01, 2026

Tibetan activists gathered outside the United Nations headquarters in Geneva to protest against China’s newly implemented Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress, raising concerns over its impact on Tibetan language, culture, religion and identity. The demonstration was held during the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council. Thinlay Chukki, Representative of the Dalai Lama for Central and Eastern Europe, alleged that more than one million Tibetan children were being subjected to residential schooling and claimed they were being deprived of opportunities to practise their religion, learn their language and participate in cultural activities. Tibetan activist Tashi Delek said members of the Tibetan community had gathered to protest against the Chinese law and submit petition, press release and appeal letters to the United Nations. Marcelle Roux, founder of the France Tibet Association, said supporters from France, Germany, Switzerland and other countries had joined the demonstration in solidarity with Tibet. China says the Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress provides a legal framework to promote ethnic unity, common prosperity and a shared sense of community among China's ethnic groups.