US government allocates $23 million to support Tibetan programs

By Tenzin Nyidon 

DHARAMSHALA, April 2: The US has earmarked $23 million to support Tibetan programs, according to the Washington-based International Campaign for Tibet (ICT). This allocation forms part of the extensive $1.2 trillion government funding bill recently passed by the US Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 23, aimed at financing various federal initiatives. The funds allocated to Tibetan programs include language preservation, environmental conservation, and efforts to strengthen Tibetan democracy in exile. 

Among the allocations for Tibetan programs, $10 million is designated for non-governmental organisations (NGOs) with proven experience in collaborating with Tibetan communities. This funding aims to support activities focused on preserving cultural traditions, fostering sustainable development, enhancing education, and promoting environmental conservation in Tibet.

Additionally, $8 million is allocated to promote and safeguard Tibetan culture and language within Tibetan refugee and diaspora communities. This funding will also contribute to the development and resilience of Tibetan communities and the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) in India and Nepal. Moreover, it will facilitate the education and empowerment of the next generation of Tibetan leaders from these communities.

Furthermore, $5 million is set aside to enhance the capacity of the CTA, which governs democratically for Tibetans in exile. A portion of this support, up to $1.5 million, can be utilised for initiatives aimed at economic growth and capacity-building, including assistance for displaced Tibetan refugee families residing in India and Nepal.

The legislation also included a provision stipulating that no federal funds should be allocated for the production of maps or any other materials that depict Tibet as part of the People’s Republic of China. This restriction remains in effect until the Chinese government engages in negotiations to reach a mutually agreed resolution regarding the status of Tibet.

Franz Matzner, director of government relations at the International Campaign for Tibet, hailed the new funding bill, stating, “The United States has once again demonstrated its commitment to the Tibetan people in concrete terms that provide crucial resources for their pursuit of freedom and cultural preservation in the face of the Xi Jinping regime’s escalating oppression.

“For those fighting for survival in Tibet, every dollar counts—and we are grateful for each one. For those outside Tibet, Congress’ investment in maintaining the Tibetan people’s distinct language, religion and way of life provides essential aid and a firm message of hope and solidarity.”