In this joint declaration, the German Bundestag’s Committee for Human Rights and Humanitarian Aid expresses deep concern over the increasing number of self-immolations in Tibet and calls on the Chinese leadership to respect the human rights, religious freedom, and cultural identity of Tibetans.

The Committee states that the self-immolations reflect deep frustration over restrictions on freedom and the lack of respect for Tibetan culture and religion, and urges China to address the underlying causes through reforms and by ending repression and state control over religious life. It calls for the resumption of dialogue between Chinese authorities and Tibetan representatives, while urging Tibetans to refrain from self-immolation and other forms of self-harm.

The declaration also supports calls by international actors, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the European Parliament, and the EU High Representative, for improved access to Tibet for diplomats, parliamentarians, and journalists, and calls on the German Government to continue raising Tibet-related concerns through bilateral and international channels, including EU–China human rights mechanisms.