The Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, has affirmed that the institution of the Dalai Lama will persist after his death. In a video message to religious elders gathered in Dharamshala, India—where he has lived in exile since fleeing Tibet in 1959—the Nobel Peace laureate declared that the Gaden Phodrang Trust holds exclusive authority to recognize his future reincarnation, following traditional procedures.
This announcement, made just days before his 90th birthday, sets the stage for a potential succession conflict between Tibetan exiled leaders and the Chinese Communist Party, which claims sole authority over the selection of the next Dalai Lama within China. The Dalai Lama has previously indicated his successor would be born outside China and urged followers to reject any candidate appointed by Beijing.
China’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its position that the reincarnation must comply with Chinese laws and be approved by the central government, raising the possibility of two rival Dalai Lamas emerging—one chosen by Tibetan Buddhists in exile and another endorsed by Beijing.
The Dalai Lama’s statement underscores the ongoing tension surrounding Tibetan spiritual leadership and highlights the complex political and religious dynamics shaping the future of Tibetan Buddhism.
