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Tibet has once again been ranked among the least free regions globally, receiving a zero score in the Freedom in the World 2026 report released by Freedom House. The findings mark the third straight year that Tibet has remained at the very bottom of global freedom rankings, as reported by Phayul.
According to Phayul, Tibet recorded a political rights score of 2 out of 40 and a civil liberties score of 2 out of 60, reflecting severe restrictions across governance, expression, and cultural freedoms. The report flags a proposed law introduced in September 2025 on promoting ethnic unity, which critics say could intensify assimilation policies and weaken protections for the Tibetan language, religion, and traditions. Religious control continues to be a major concern. Chinese authorities have asserted exclusive authority over the recognition of the 14th Dalai Lama. However, the Tibetan spiritual leader rejected this claim in July, stating that only legitimate Buddhist institutions under his trust can identify his successor. Politically, Tibetans remain sidelined from decision-making processes. Real authority lies firmly with the Chinese Communist Party, with senior positions dominated by officials such as Wang Junzheng. Electoral systems remain tightly controlled, with candidates vetted by the party and no room for opposition or independent participation. Expressions of support for the Central Tibetan Administration are reportedly criminalised. Civil liberties in Tibet remain heavily curtailed. Media operates under strict censorship, and individuals risk detention for sharing sensitive information. The use of the Tibetan language faces growing restrictions online, while communication with foreign journalists is treated as a punishable offence, as highlighted by Phayul. Religious institutions are subjected to intense surveillance, with monks often compelled to denounce the Dalai Lama and pledge loyalty to the state. The report also mentions the 2025 death in custody of Tibetan religious leader Tulku Hungkar Dorje under unclear circumstances. The report states that, alongside widespread surveillance and enforced cultural assimilation, state-backed migration and relocation policies are steadily altering Tibet's demographic composition, further marginalising ethnic Tibetans in their own homeland, as reported by Phayul. (ANI)
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