On autonomy for the Tibetan people

For years, there has been discussion as to whether they should opt for independence or for true autonomy within China. Similarly, there were arguments over whether they should resort to violence to achieve their goal.

Independence is unrealistic, since no country in the world recognizes Tibet as a separate country. A decision to resort to terrorism will have to be disavowed by the Dalai Lama, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Moreover, the Indian government no doubt will withdraw its hospitality to the exiled Tibetans, which has been extended for half a century.

Besides, since China has indicated its willingness to continue the dialogue, a decision by Tibetan exiles to stop talking will send a negative signal to the international community, where many hope for an eventual compromise. The Dalai Lama sounds like a man at the end of his rope. “Tibetans are being handed down a death sentence,” he said recently. “This ancient nation, with an ancient cultural heritage, is dying.”

And yet, even before the convening of the “crisis meeting,” his aides announced that he continues to believe that dialogue is the only way to resolve the deadlock. The plight of China’s Mongols offers an object lesson for Tibetans. Mongols now account for only 20% of the population of Inner Mongolia and Mongol identity is under threat. Similar migration of Han Chinese into Tibet will lead to a similar result. Tibet may lose not only its autonomy but its distinct culture and religion. And there is a danger that the threat of extinction may lead to violence.

If Tibet explodes after the Dalai Lama’s death, China may well regret its decision not to take him seriously. Then, there will be no one who can help to pacify angry Tibetans.

Columnist Ching can be reached at Frank.ching@gmail.com

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