The International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) has called on the US Congress to pass a bill enhancing Washington’s ties with Tibet’s elected leaders. This appeal coincided with Captive Nations Week in the US, emphasizing bipartisan American backing for the Tibetan people. ICT President Tencho Gyatso stressed the importance of standing with those fighting for fundamental rights during this week.
The ICT specifically urged Congress to approve the Assuring the Future of Tibet Act of 2026, introduced by Representatives James P. McGovern and Michael McCaul. This legislation aims to boost US engagement with the Central Tibetan Administration and ensure ongoing American support for Tibet post the Dalai Lama’s era. Gyatso highlighted the necessity for the US to take a strong stance in safeguarding Tibetan freedom and democracy amid China’s actions.
Additionally, the ICT called for US condemnation of China’s new Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress Law, effective from July 1. This law, criticized by the organization, intensifies assimilation policies for Tibetan, Uyghur, and Southern Mongolian communities. It emphasizes Chinese language dominance, ideological conformity, and imposes restrictions on religion, education, and culture, raising concerns about transnational repression.
The organization urged Washington to address this issue in talks with Beijing, rally opposition through international forums, and enhance protections against transnational repression. Following the self-immolation of Tibetan activist Lobsang Palden outside the UN headquarters in New York, ICT emphasized the need for stronger safeguards for Tibetan language, religion, and culture. Captive Nations Week, established in 1959, aims to support those living under authoritarian regimes, with Tibet being among the nations recognized for its struggle against Chinese suppression.
