“The Elders” issue Tibet appeal
Posted on April 3rd, 2008 by Lhasa Rising
What do Nelson Mandela, former US president Jimmy Carter, former UN secretary general Kofi Annan, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu have in common? Along with all being Nobel Peace laureates (together with the Dalai Lama), they are all calling on the Chinese government to come to a peaceful solution in Tibet as part of a group called The Elders:
The people of Tibet wish to be heard. They have long sought autonomy, and chosen negotiation and mediation as their means of attaining it. They now turn to protest. The Chinese government should hear their voices, understand their grievances and find a non-violent solution.
That solution is offered by our friend and brother His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who has never sought separatism, and has always chosen a peaceful path. We strongly urge the Chinese government to seize the opportunity he provides for a meaningful dialogue. Once formed, this channel should remain open, active and productive. It should address issues that are at the heart of the tension, respecting the dignity of the Tibetan people and the integrity of China.
Throughout, the international community will be reassured if the government allows members of the press and United Nations Human Rights investigators full access within Tibet. Without that access, progress is unlikely and an opportunity may be lost.
Interestingly, the Elders (website here) includes Li Zhaoxing, formerly the Chinese foreign minister (perhaps this is why the statement has a careful emphasis on autonomy — rather than independence – and “the [territorial] integrity of China”). But this really is news: a high Chinese official implicitly taking a stand on Tibet.
The Elders, by the way, is a group of high-profile former world leaders who are arguably free of their former political pressures, and who can therefore speak out freely. According to Nelson Mandela:
This group can speak freely and boldly, working both publicly and behind the scenes on whatever actions need to be taken. Together we will work to support courage where there is fear, foster agreement where there is conflict, and inspire hope where there is despair.
Whether the Tibetan people will be satisfied with autonomy — rather than their rightful independence — is another issue. In the meantime, it’s gratifying to see such a distinguished group (including a former Chinese official) take such a stand.
