Dalai Lama Clarifies China Will Have 'No Role' In Choosing Successor, Names Own Foundation For Reincarnation Process

Dharamshala: Days ahead of his 90th birthday (July 6), the 14th Dalai Lama made it unequivocally clear that China will have no role in the selection of his successor, adding that only the foundation appointed by him will oversee the reincarnation process.

Speaking from Dharamshala on Monday, June 30, the Tibetan spiritual leader said that a formal framework is being considered to guide the continuation of the centuries-old institution of the Dalai Lamas.

“There will be some kind of a framework within which we can talk about the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lamas,” he said, without elaborating on specific details. His remarks reinforced the stand he has taken in his recent book, Voice for the Voiceless, where he mentioned that his reincarnation would occur outside China.

Have a look at his official statement here:

Who Will Lead the Reincarnation Search?

The Gaden Phodrang Foundation, established by the Dalai Lama in 2015, has been entrusted with the responsibility of locating and recognising the 15th Dalai Lama. The foundation, composed of several close aides and senior Tibetan figures, was created to support the spiritual and religious continuation of the Dalai Lama’s legacy.

This move has appeared to sidestep Beijing’s claim of authority over the reincarnation, which is a matter rooted in its interpretation of Qing dynasty traditions. Chinese officials argue that the process must include the use of the “golden urn” and occur within China’s borders; however, Tibetans in exile strongly rejected it.

The Tibetan parliament-in-exile, also based in Dharamshala, confirmed that it has mechanisms in place to keep functioning and has reiterated that any politically appointed candidate, particularly one backed by China, will not be recognised by the Tibetan community.

While India Hosts Tibetans, US Opposes China’s Role

While the issue is deeply spiritual for Tibetans, it also carries strategic significance globally. India, that has been home to the Dalai Lama since his 1959 exile following a failed uprising against Mao Zedong’s regime, hosts over 100,000 Tibetan Buddhists. His presence is widely seen as a moral and diplomatic counterweight to China in the region.

The United States has also weighed in on the matter. In 2024, then-President Joe Biden signed a legislation rejecting Chinese interference in the reincarnation process and backing Tibetan autonomy. Washington has consistently denounced Beijing’s suppression of religious freedom and political expression in Tibet.

Referring to China’s position, the Dalai Lama wrote, “It is particularly inappropriate for Chinese Communists, who profess not to believe in religion, to meddle in the system of reincarnation of lamas.” He also urged Tibetans to reject any successor chosen for political ends.

Published on: Wednesday, July 02, 2025, 10:44 AM IST