Nepal Cancels International Tibet Studies Conference Amid Security Concerns

A major international conference on Tibet studies has been cancelled in Nepal due to security concerns and pressure from the Chinese government. The 17th International Association for Tibetan Studies (IATS) conference was scheduled to take place from 7th to 13th Bhadra (August) in Dhulikhel and Kathmandu.

The event, which was expected to attract over 700 participants from 39 countries, was cancelled at the last minute following a directive from the government. According to Dr Sagar Raj Sharma, director of the Himalayan Centre for Asian Studies (HICAS) at Kathmandu University, the cancellation was due to security concerns and pressure from the Chinese government.

The conference was organized by HICAS and the Ranjung Yeshe Institute’s Centre for Buddhist Studies (RYI). The event aimed to promote academic research and discussion on Tibetan language, culture, history, and society. However, the Chinese government viewed the conference as a platform for anti-Chinese activities and had expressed concerns to the Nepalese government.

Security Concerns

A confidential security report had highlighted the potential risks associated with the conference, including the possibility of clashes between pro-Tibetan and pro-Chinese groups. The report also noted that the conference could be used as a platform for anti-Chinese activities, which could compromise Nepal’s national security and diplomatic relations with China.

The report also expressed concerns about the presence of Tibetan refugees in Nepal and the potential for protests and demonstrations during the conference. Additionally, there were concerns about the possibility of self-immolation attempts by Tibetan activists, which could lead to a deterioration in law and order.

Diplomatic Pressure

The Chinese government had been putting pressure on the Nepalese government to cancel the conference, citing concerns about anti-Chinese activities and the potential for protests and demonstrations. The Nepalese government had also received a letter from the Chinese embassy expressing concerns about the conference and its potential impact on bilateral relations.

The cancellation of the conference is seen as a victory for the Chinese government, which has been increasingly assertive in its diplomatic efforts to suppress anti-Chinese activities around the world. The incident highlights the challenges faced by Nepal in balancing its relations with China and its commitment to academic freedom and human rights.