On 3 May 2022, the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy organised a panel discussion on the topic, ‘Role of Media in Advancing Tibetan Democracy’ to observe World Press Freedom Day at Norbu House Hotel, Dharamshala. The panel consisted of media professionals, legislators, activists, digital security experts, and independent researchers with extensive knowledge and experience in their respective fields.
Among the panelists were Mr. Lobsang Gyatso Sither, member of Tibetan Parliament in exile and director of technology at Tibet Action Institute; Ms. Pema Tso, member of Tibetan Parliament in exile and editor-in-chief at Tibet Times, Tibetan writer and activist Mr. Tenzin Tsundue, Mr. Sherab Woeser, former editor-in-chief at phayul.com and deputy program director at the Tibet Fund, and independent researcher Mr. Tenzin Nyinjey.
Around forty attendees, consisting of numerous stakeholders and representatives from civil society organizations, took an active part in the discussion. The event was streamed live on TCHRD’s official Facebook page.
The panel discussed the significance of press freedom in advancing democracy in the exile Tibetan community, overcoming the challenges faced by the exile Tibetan media, as well as the adverse effects of social media algorithms on democratic discourse, and possible solutions. Panelists shared their opinions on how the media could arbitrate a polarized society, empower and build the capacity of Tibetan journalists, and discussed issues that warrant the attention of the journalists and other stakeholders.
The event is one of the many activities aimed at promoting freedom, accountability, and transparency of the press in advancing Tibetan democracy.