On June 3, the Latvian Parliament, known as the Saeima, hosted a conference dedicated to the situation in Tibet. The event featured Hollywood actor and Chair of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), Richard Gere, as the keynote speaker.
Hosted by Latvian MP Juris Viļums, Chair of the Group for the Support of Tibet, the conference brought together politicians, civil society representatives, and members of the international Tibet movement in a demonstration of Baltic solidarity.
A Call for Decisive European Action
During his keynote address, Gere called upon European democracies to act decisively for the rights of Tibetans. He emphasized the parallels between the historical experiences of the Baltic peoples and the ongoing struggle of the Tibetan people for self-determination and cultural survival.
The conference also featured video messages from Dutch Parliament Member Jan Paternotte and European Parliament Member Dainus Zalimas. Both officials encouraged representatives to advocate within their own national parliaments for the appointment of an EU Special Representative for Tibet.
The request for an EU Special Representative was part of a Tibet-related motion adopted by the Dutch parliament in April 2025. Such an appointment could facilitate a more coordinated European approach to the region.
“initiatives that call out and stand up against that racist Chinese regime as a global threat to stability, peace, and human rights.”
German Parliament Member Michael Brand expressed his support for such initiatives, identifying the current Chinese regime as a threat to global peace and human rights.
Legislative Concerns and Forced Assimilation
A primary focus of the conference was the discussion of China’s Law on the Promotion of Ethnic Unity and Progress. Adopted by the Chinese parliament on March 12, 2026, the law is scheduled to come into force on July 1.
Participants at the conference described the law as a serious turning point. They argued that the legislation codifies the forced assimilation of Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongols, and Hong Kongers, and constitutes a violation of international human rights law as well as China’s own constitution.
In the coming days, the political momentum from this event may continue as parliamentarians from Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania are set to release a joint statement regarding the situation in Tibet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the keynote speaker at the Saeima conference?
The keynote speaker was Hollywood star Richard Gere, who also serves as the Chair of the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT).
What is the significance of China’s Law on the Promotion of Ethnic Unity and Progress?
Adopted on March 12, 2026, the law is set to take effect on July 1. Participants at the conference stated the law codifies forced assimilation and violates both international human rights law and China’s own constitution.
What specific diplomatic role is being requested by European representatives?
Representatives are encouraging their national parliaments to demand the appointment of an EU Special Representative for Tibet to allow for a coordinated European approach.
How should European democracies balance diplomatic relations with human rights advocacy?
