Nine young Tibetans have set fire to themselves in eastern Tibet since March 2011; seven since 26 September. Five have died including a nun. These unprecedented and truly desperate acts are a cry to the outside world for help.
Seven of these self-immolations are linked to Kirti Monastery in Ngaba, one of the largest and most influential monastic institutions in Tibet. China’s merciless and violent crackdown in Ngaba and throughout Tibet is intensifying Tibetan grievances and exacerbating the resentment and desperation felt across Tibet
This growing tragedy, if left unchecked, could spiral even further into a nation-wide crisis, unless the world acts now.
The international community, both citizens and governments, must Stand Up for Tibet. Global diplomatic intervention now will save Tibetan lives.
We demand a coordinated international response by world leaders to condemn China’s repressive measures in Ngaba and across Tibet, and to institute multi-lateral mechanisms to advocate for the Tibetan people. Most immediately, we call on China to withdraw its security forces from Ngaba and across Tibet now, and stop the ongoing harassment and torture of monks.
By signing this statement, I support global diplomatic intervention for Tibet and I pledge to stand up for Tibetans who have the right to live in peace and freedom like every other human being.