This bill, the Assuring the Future of Tibet Act of 2026, directs U.S. officials to advocate for the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and increase high-level engagement with its leaders. It says the CTA is the legitimate representative of the Tibetan people and that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has sole authority to identify future Dalai Lamas. The President must direct the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations to push for CTA observer status at the U.N. The Secretary of State must advocate for CTA inclusion in international bodies, organize partners to support recognition, meet at senior levels with CTA officials, extend diplomatic courtesies and security for the Sikyong consistent with a head of government, consider diplomatic privileges and immunities, and urge allies to do the same. The Secretary must also report to relevant congressional committees one year after enactment and annually about implementation. The bill includes findings about historical U.S.-Tibet relations, concerns about a 2026 Chinese law on ethnic unity and its effects on Tibetan autonomy, and statements supporting Tibetan cultural, religious, and language rights.
No publicly available information.
The bill states U.S. support for Tibetan human rights, cultural and religious identity, and the CTA as the legitimate representative chosen by democratic processes. It expresses concern that a 2026 Chinese law reduces Tibetan autonomy and language rights. Proponents want stronger U.S. advocacy for the CTA in multilateral forums and more formal diplomatic treatment of CTA leaders.
No publicly available information.