Dalai Lama Ensures Institution Continuity Amid China Dispute
The Gaden Phodrang Trust will play a crucial role in identifying the next Dalai Lama, with the Dalai Lama emphasizing that his successor will be chosen by Tibetan tradition, not Beijing. This development is likely to escalate tensions between the Dalai Lama and China, which has long sought to exert control over Tibetan Buddhism.
The Dalai Lama has reaffirmed the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lama, a decision made in consultation with Tibetan spiritual leaders and the public, ensuring the 600-year-old Tibetan spiritual institution will endure after his death.
The Dalai Lama, who is 90 years old, made the announcement ahead of his birthday on July 6, stating that the responsibility for identifying his successor, the 15th Dalai Lama, will rest exclusively with the India-based Gaden Phodrang Trust, his office. This decision comes despite China's insistence that it will name its own successor, which the Dalai Lama has warned would be a "puppet" and lack "any spiritual quality".
The Dalai Lama has stated that the next Dalai Lama could be of any nationality and come from a place where there is "access to freedom". He has also hinted that his successor may be born in a free country, not necessarily in Tibet, and may not be male. The Gaden Phodrang Trust will oversee the search for his reincarnation, and only his inner circle will have the authority to identify his successor.
China has swiftly rejected the Dalai Lama's statement, insisting that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama must be chosen by drawing lots from a golden urn and approved by the central government. The clash highlights a long-running power struggle between Beijing and the Dalai Lama over who controls Tibetan Buddhism's most sacred office.
The Dalai Lama's announcement has been welcomed by Tibetans, who fear China will name its own successor to bolster control over Tibet. The decision ensures the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lama, providing reassurance to Buddhist followers around the world.