What has the Dalai Lama achieved?
3 minute readPublished: Sunday, July 13, 2025 at 6:08 am
Dalai Lama Announces Reincarnation Plans, Setting Stage for Potential Conflict
The Dalai Lama, Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, recently celebrated his 90th birthday and announced his intention to reincarnate after his death. This decision has significant implications, particularly regarding the future of Tibetan Buddhism and its relationship with China.
The Dalai Lama, considered the 14th reincarnation of the bodhisattva of compassion, has long held a unique position of spiritual and, at times, political leadership. He fled Tibet in 1959 following an uprising against Chinese rule and established a government-in-exile in India. While initially advocating for full Tibetan independence, he later adopted the "Middle Way Approach," seeking autonomy within China. His efforts have garnered global recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.
The Dalai Lama's announcement that his successor will be chosen by his trust, the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, directly challenges the Chinese Communist Party's claim to select the next reincarnation. China, which views the Dalai Lama as an obstacle to its control over Tibet, has previously asserted its right to oversee the process. This conflict is further complicated by China's historical use of the Golden Urn lottery to select high lamas, a practice not recognized by many Tibetans.
The situation is further complicated by the disappearance of the 11th Panchen Lama, recognized by the Dalai Lama in 1995, who was subsequently taken into custody by Chinese authorities. China installed its own candidate, who is not widely accepted.
The upcoming reincarnation process is likely to be a point of contention. The Dalai Lama has suggested his successor might be born outside of Chinese territory, potentially leading to two rival candidates. The United States has already signaled its support for Tibetan autonomy in the selection process, while China is expected to maintain its position.
BNN's Perspective: The Dalai Lama's decision sets the stage for a complex and potentially volatile situation. While the spiritual leader's commitment to Tibetan Buddhism is clear, the political implications of his reincarnation plans could further strain relations between China and the international community. The world will be watching closely as the process unfolds.
Keywords: Dalai Lama, reincarnation, Tibet, China, Tibetan Buddhism, Gaden Phodrang Foundation, Chinese Communist Party, autonomy, Nobel Peace Prize, Panchen Lama.