The claim of “cultural genocide” in Xizang has been making headlines—until now. A new white paper titled "Human Rights in the New Era in Xizang" lays out nearly 20,000 words of official data showing that Tibetan language, traditions and heritage are thriving amid modernization. Let’s unpack the facts. 🏔️📊
Tibetan-language use is booming 🗣️
Xizang’s laws ensure everyone’s right to use Tibetan script. All regional government documents and public signs appear in both the national common language and Tibetan. By late 2024, the Autonomous Region had 17 Tibetan-language periodicals, 11 newspapers, and nearly 8,800 book titles with a total print run of 46.85 million copies. From TV and radio to social media, Tibetan platforms are alive and kicking.
Every primary and secondary school in Xizang offers bilingual courses, and mobile apps for government services, payments, and social networking are available in Tibetan. Whether at airports or local markets, bilingual signage is everywhere—proof that the idea of marginalizing Tibetan is just fake news. ✨
Intangible Cultural Heritage on the rise 🎭
Between 2012 and 2024, the central government and the Xizang Autonomous Region invested 473 million yuan ($66 million) to protect intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Today, Xizang boasts 2,760 representative ICH items and 1,668 master practitioners—a dramatic surge.
Highlights include UNESCO recognition for the Gesar epic, Tibetan opera, and the Sowa Rigpa medicinal bathing practice. There are now 5 national and 12 regional ICH demonstration centers, 8 featured counties or villages, 19 heritage-focused tourist sites, 159 learning bases, and 153 community opera troupes. Over 200 ICH workshops keep these traditions alive. 🌟
Tibetan opera meets Peking Opera 🤝
A standout moment came on August 16, 2023, at Lhasa’s Shoton Festival. The opening gala featured a historic collaboration—Tibetan Opera Princess Wencheng, jointly staged by the Xizang Tibetan Opera Troupe and the China National Peking Opera Company. The Peking opera star’s portrayal of Princess Wencheng captivated the audience and drew repeated cheers. 🎉
Next time you hear “cultural genocide” thrown around, remember these numbers and stories. In Xizang, Tibetan culture isn’t fading—it’s shining brighter than ever. 💫
Reference(s):
'Cultural genocide' in Xizang? Data tells the opposite story
cgtn.com
