Who gets to choose the next Dalai Lama?
The selection of the next Dalai Lama is a contentious issue, with Tibetans fearing that the Chinese government may impose its own choice. Traditionally, the Dalai Lama has the authority to choose his successor, a practice that has been upheld for centuries. As the current Dalai Lama approaches 91, the urgency of this decision grows amidst rising tensions between Tibetan Buddhists and the Chinese state.
- ▪The Dalai Lama has lived in exile since 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule.
- ▪Tibetans believe that only the Dalai Lama can decide the time and place of his reincarnation.
- ▪China insists that the state should have the authority to decide on the next Dalai Lama.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Politics and faith collide over choice for Tibet's next Dalai LamaBy Chris Bartlett and Amber MaCompassTopic:BuddhismSun 24 May 2026 at 5:27pmSun 24 May 2026 at 5:27pmSun 24 May 2026 at 5:27pmAs Tibetans in Australia make their case for the Dalai Lama to choose his successor — as has happened for centuries — there is a real fear the Chinese government will install its own choice. (ABC Compass: Greg Nelson)abc.net.au/news/who-gets-to-choose-the-next-dalai-lama-tibet-china-standoff/106711290Link copiedShareShare articleIt could be a beach anywhere in Australia. Toddlers frolic in the shallows, people walk their dogs, a man strips off and dives into the waves.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).