DHARAMSHALA
The Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile concluded a historic session, passing a significant budget and adopting formal rules to protect and standardize Tibet’s national symbols.
For the first time, the 17th Parliament has established official guidelines for the use of the Tibetan national flag, emblem, and anthem to ensure they are treated with uniform respect worldwide.
During the session in Himachal Pradesh, lawmakers approved a budget of 3,475 million rupees to fund the government-in-exile’s operations for the coming year. Beyond the numbers, the focus remained on cultural identity. Parliamentarians noted that while the Tibetan flag and emblem have existed for over a thousand years, they previously lacked the legislative backing now provided. These new rules aim to foster a sense of pride and consistency among the global Tibetan community.
The Parliament also took a firm stand against international pressure, passing a resolution that strongly condemned China’s “ethnic unity law.” Tibetan leaders described the law as “genocidal” and a direct threat to their unique heritage and identity. They reaffirmed that Tibetans, whether living at home or in exile, would not accept laws imposed from the outside that undermine their rights.
Home Minister Dolma Gyari described the session as a “significant step” for the nation. By combining financial planning with new laws to preserve their heritage, the Parliament signaled its continued resolve to protect Tibetan culture. The session ended with a clear message: while the community remains in exile, its symbols and spirit remain officially protected and stronger than ever.