Tibetan Democracy-in-Exile Highlighted as a Model of Resilience at Asia Democracy Assembly 2025
Ms Phurbu Dolma, legal officer of the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, participated in the Asia Democracy Assembly 2025, held in Bangkok from 1–5 November 2025. Co-hosted by the Asia Democracy Network (ADN) and CIVICUS as part of “International Civil Society Week 2025,” the event brought together over 1000 participants to strengthen international solidarity, highlight the resilience of pro-democracy movements, and share best practices to advance democratization and defend democratic values.
Under the theme “Defending Democracy: Mobilizing Movements and the New Frontiers for Citizen Action,” Ms Phurbu Dolma spoke at Plenary 2, “Resistance Without Borders – Sustaining Struggles Under Military Rule, Occupation, and Forced Exile.” She represented the Tibetan cause by highlighting the community’s sustained activism under forced exile and restrictive conditions, as well as the ongoing promotion of democratic values. The session also featured a moderated Q&A segment, emphasizing how movements subjected to military rule, occupation, or exile can remain effective, connected, and supported.
During her session, Ms Phurbu Dolma provided a comprehensive overview of the evolution and development of Tibetan democracy in exile. She highlighted the pivotal role played by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in establishing democratic institutions for the Tibetan community after 1959, such as the Central Tibetan Administration and the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, which remain the backbone of self-governance for Tibetans in exile. Ms Dolma emphasized how the democratic system allows Tibetans to stay motivated and inspired, fostering resilience in their continued resistance and movement for rights and autonomy. She also discussed the ongoing functioning of the Central Tibetan Administration and its impact on preserving democratic values and mobilizing collective action among Tibetans worldwide.
The Asia Democracy Assembly serves as a regional platform for democracy advocates to strengthen cooperation and engagement in promoting and safeguarding democratization across Asia. This year’s assembly brought together a diverse spectrum of stakeholders to discuss challenges and explore solutions for advancing democracy in the region.
