On the Mission and Activities of Tibet Initiative Deutschland e.V.
Your organization has been advocating for Tibetan self-determination and human rights since 1989. How has the mission of Tibet Initiative Deutschland evolved in recent years under your leadership?
“Tibet has no lobby in China. Tibet needs a lobby in the world and in Germany.”
These words inspired the founding of Tibet Initiative Deutschland (TID) in 1989. After a moving lecture on the situation in Tibet held in Bonn, Tibetans and supporters came together, united by a sense of urgency and solidarity. In a small apartment, the foundation was laid for an organization that has stood firmly by the Tibetan people for over 35 years. From the outset, our mission has been clear: to support the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination and to advocate for the protection of human rights in Tibet. Today, TID is one of the most influential Tibet advocacy organizations in Europe. With a professional office in the heart of Berlin, around 1,500 members, and over 50 regional groups and contact points across Germany, we continue to raise awareness and strengthen support for Tibet.
Over the decades, our work has been shaped by a wide range of impactful campaigns, by advocating for the release of political prisoners, protecting Tibet’s unique environment, drawing attention to human rights violations during Olympic Games, and most recently, campaigning against the colonial boarding school system in Tibet.
Since assuming the role of Executive Director nearly five years ago, I have been leading a young, dedicated, and dynamic team. Together, we are working to increase public and political awareness of the Tibetan issue, particularly by strategically linking it with key developments in German foreign and China policy. Topics such as transnational repression and the human rights dimensions of Germany’s China strategy have become central to our advocacy work. A key priority for me has been to ensure that the situation in Tibet remains visible in the German-speaking digital sphere. To this end, we have significantly developed and expanded our online communication strategies, allowing us to engage a broader audience, particularly younger generations, and to amplify Tibetan voices across platforms.
Tibet remains one of the most tightly controlled regions in the world. What are the most pressing human rights concerns in Tibet today that you believe are being overlooked internationally?
The situation in Tibet is deeply alarming. The Chinese government is intensifying its efforts to eradicate Tibetan identity, aiming to break the resilience and spirit of resistance that has endured despite over 70 years of occupation. One of the most egregious examples is the colonial boarding school system: Tibetan children as young as four years old are forcibly separated from their families and placed in state-run institutions where they are subjected to forced assimilation and Sinicization. The clear goal is to raise a generation of Tibetans who think, speak, and behave like Han Chinese – erasing their cultural and linguistic heritage in the process.
That this systematic cultural destruction continues despite growing evidence is shocking. We are witnessing what can only be described as a cultural genocide in Tibet.
Another critical human rights concern is the ongoing interference in Tibetan Buddhism. The Chinese government seeks not only to control religious practice but also to legitimize its rule by manipulating religious institutions. Monasteries are under constant surveillance, religious teachings are censored, and monks and nuns are often subjected to political re-education. This constitutes a profound violation of religious freedom and a deep wound to the spiritual life of the Tibetan people. Perhaps most troubling is China’s attempt to control the reincarnation process of Tibetan lamas, especially the future reincarnation of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. The abduction of the Panchen Lama, who was kidnapped by Chinese authorities at the age of six and remains missing to this day, is a clear example of Beijing’s strategy to replace legitimate religious figures with state-approved representatives loyal to the Communist Party.
The international community must not remain silent in the face of these violations. It is essential to condemn the manipulation of sacred traditions and to actively oppose all forms of interference in Tibetan religious and cultural life.
What are some of the biggest challenges Tibet Initiative Deutschland faces in keeping Tibet on the political agenda in Germany and Europe?
One of the most fundamental challenges we face is the near-total lack of free communication into or out of Tibet. Surveillance and censorship are part of daily life for Tibetans. All information must be smuggled out carefully, often at great personal risk to those inside Tibet. Social media platforms are heavily monitored and routinely censored. As a result, we are dependent on individual sources and the work of independent journalists and researchers, such as those at Radio Free Asia or other trusted outlets who verify and contextualize the information we receive. The defunding and shrinking of such international broadcasters, especially during the Trump administration, has had a serious impact on our work. At a time when the Chinese Communist Party is intensifying its disinformation and propaganda efforts around Tibet, the absence of independent, credible voices poses a major obstacle to countering the official narrative.
Another major challenge is the political climate in Germany and Europe. It remains difficult to find strong, consistent voices willing to criticize the Chinese government openly. For decades, China has been considered a key economic partner of Germany and this has often come at the expense of human rights concerns. Although there is a growing awareness of the risks posed by economic over-dependence on China, particularly in light of recent geopolitical developments, a courageous and values-driven China policy is still lacking. What we need is a clear political commitment: one that recognizes human rights as non-negotiable, and that is willing to speak out and act, even when there are economic consequences.
How do you collaborate with the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, international partners, and Chinese dissidents to amplify your advocacy efforts?
There are many ways in which we collaborate, but what matters most to me is that we are well connected, maintain regular communication, and join forces whenever necessary. Our cooperation is shaped by our shared priorities and the specific goals we aim to achieve. This collaboration can range from joint campaigns and exchange programs to forming broader coalitions. Overall, there is a strong sense of solidarity and ongoing exchange among us. This unity is essential in our struggle against the powerful Chinese Communist Party, which has far greater resources than we ever will. It is only through strong alliances and mutual support that we can make our voices heard.
Can you share a recent campaign or grassroots effort by the Initiative that had a significant impact or brought unexpected support for the Tibetan cause?
In Germany, we work hard to connect the Tibetan cause with the everyday lives of local communities and Politics, because China’s repression does not end at its borders. For many Tibetans living in exile, intimidation, surveillance, blackmail, and threats are part of everyday life since decades. This reality is painful and often remains hidden from the broader public.
Over the past two years, we have actively and successfully pushed back against this form of transnational repression. We focused on raising awareness and taking coordinated action. It began with a small coalition that concentrated on the Chinese Communist Party’s intimidation tactics toward Tibetans, Uyghurs, Chinese dissidents, and people from Hong Kong. Together, we compiled a briefing document with real case studies. This allowed us to generate significant support on the political level, in the media, and within civil society. Through this work, it became increasingly clear that transnational repression is not only a human rights issue but also a matter of national security. In Germany, this perspective has so far been largely overlooked. Our efforts have helped to change that.
As initiators, we were able to lay the groundwork for the first Coalition Against Transnational Repression in Germany. Today, it includes more than a dozen civil society organizations representing communities from countries such as Azerbaijan, Vietnam, Egypt, and Iran. This coalition is not only politically active but also provides mutual support and creates space for vulnerable societies and shared learning. Just as authoritarian states collaborate in carrying out repression, we stand together in resistance. Moreover, we succeeded in bringing the issue of transnational repression onto the political agenda in Germany, where it is now even mentioned in the current coalition agreement. We maintain regular exchange with international experts and have published a policy paper outlining specific recommendations for how Germany can address TNR effectively. At the heart of all this work are the voices and perspectives of those directly affected.
On Your Personal and Professional Journey
Before joining Tibet Initiative Deutschland as Executive Director, you worked in film production and youth/migration services. What led you to shift your focus toward human rights advocacy for Tibet?
I grew up in the Tibetan freedom movement and represent the third generation of Tibetans actively committed to our struggle. I attended my first demonstration as a baby and have stood in front of the Chinese embassy every year since. Much of my maternal family is politically engaged as well, and that environment shaped me from an early age. My mother, in particular, has always been a powerful role model for me.
For many years, my engagement for Tibet was purely voluntary, something I did alongside my professional work in media and as a event manager. Like many Tibetans, I carried the belief that advocacy for our cause was something one does out of duty and compassion —in one’s free time, not as a career. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, my work in media was heavily impacted, and I was suddenly faced with the question of what direction I wanted my life to take. Around that time, the position of Executive Director at Tibet Initiative Deutschland became vacant. I had recently joined the board, and our chairman, Wolfgang Grader, encouraged me to apply.
Taking on this role has shown me how essential professional work is in our movement—how much more reach, structure, and sustainability we can achieve when we work full-time, strategically, and in collaboration with others. The skills I gained in the film industry, event management, and social work have become helpful tools in my current work.
I want to encourage others—especially young Tibetans and those engaged in grassroots movements—not to shy away from turning their passion into a profession. Our cause needs people with heart, but also with training, consistency, and the courage to walk new paths. Tibet deserves not only our volunteer time, but also our full commitment when the opportunity arises.
As a Tibetan-German leader, how has your identity influenced your approach to activism and leadership within the organization?
I feel deeply connected to both sides of my Tibetan and Austria identity and each influences me in unique and meaningful ways. I don’t see these identities as competing, but rather as complementary. They allow me to navigate different worlds and perspectives, and I try to actively integrate the strengths of both into my leadership and activism.
From my Tibetan heritage, I draw a strong sense of responsibility, resilience, and rootedness in community. It’s a heritage shaped by struggle, spirituality, and the deep values of compassion and justice. From my Austrian background, I’ve learned the importance of structure, critical thinking, and the power of civic engagement. Combining both gives me the tools to build bridges.
In my position, this dual identity helps me act as a connector: I can communicate the Tibetan cause in a way that resonates with Western audiences while staying true to its core values. It also reminds me to approach my work with both empathy and professionalism, grounded in cultural understanding, but with a clear strategic vision. Ultimately, I believe that embracing the complexity of my identity has made me a better leader. It allows me to work with authenticity and helps the organization remain inclusive, adaptive, and forward-looking in a globalized world.
You’ve served both as a board member and now Executive Director. What leadership lessons have you learned during this journey that you apply daily?
Over the past five years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow significantly—both professionally and personally. Taking on increasing responsibility and stepping into more public-facing roles has pushed me beyond my comfort zone on many occasions. These experiences have strengthened my confidence and adaptability as a leader. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of continuous dialogue—with members, supporters, and those interested in our cause. This ongoing exchange not only improves communication but also helps me better understand what the Tibetan movement in Germany needs in order to evolve and remain impactful.
A key part of my work is to continuously seek out new ways to develop and future-proof the organization. Structural planning is just as essential as our political advocacy and public outreach. However, as a small team with limited resources, we often have to wear multiple hats. This means that my team and I are constantly learning new skills and familiarizing ourselves with a wide range of topics in order to meet the demands of our work. Additionally, my role allows me to connect with many inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds. These interactions not only broaden my perspective but also provide valuable motivation and guidance. They often serve as a source of inspiration and orientation in my leadership journey.
In an era of digital activism, how do you personally stay grounded and avoid burnout while working on such emotionally heavy and politically sensitive issues?
As a human rights defender and activist, staying grounded is an ongoing challenge. The constant stream of news, requests, and emotionally charged content can be overwhelming, and I’ve had to learn to set boundaries and allow myself time to recharge. This is especially difficult when the cause is so personal, and the sense of responsibility toward the Tibetan movement is deeply rooted in my identity. What helps me most is finding joy and hope in activism. Believing in a better future gives my work greater strength and meaning.
Buddhism plays an important role in keeping me centered, it reminds me to act with compassion and reinforces my belief in justice and human dignity.
The Buddhist understanding that life involves suffering helps me keep perspective: there are countless people around the world enduring oppression, and many continue to resist with strength and grace. I draw inspiration from those people, like former political prisoners in Tibet, for example, who have endured unimaginable hardship yet never lost their dignity or inner strength. These encounters fuel my resilience and remind me why this work matters.
Equally important is having a strong support system. Without the emotional backing of my family and friends, the weight of this work would be much harder to carry.
What message would you give to young Tibetans in exile who want to support the movement but feel disconnected from the cause due to distance or generational gaps?
First of all, I want to acknowledge that these feelings of disconnection are completely normal, especially for an exile community like ours, where many of us have never had the chance to experience our roots in Tibet firsthand. Every person goes through phases of self-discovery, doubt, and questioning, particularly in complex and diverse life circumstances. For young Tibetans in exile, these challenges can feel even deeper. Growing up outside of Tibet, often as the second or third generation, naturally creates a sense of distance. But this distance does not diminish who you are. It reshapes your identity in powerful ways. And within that transformation lies a unique source of strength, resilience, and belonging.
Many Tibetan parents have invested immense time, energy, and resources into the movement, yet often avoid placing pressure on their children. That’s understandable. But what I’ve learned is that engaging with your identity even in small, accessible ways, can be grounding and empowering. For young Tibetans feeling unsure where to start, I suggest beginning with low-barrier forms of connection: Tibetan music, literature, film, or community events. You don’t have to be politically active to contribute. There are many ways to reconnect culturally, spiritually, artistically, academically, or socially. Personally, I feel deeply connected to my Tibetan identity, even though I don’t speak Tibetan fluently. I’ve accepted the circumstances we live in—where travel to Tibet is restricted, communication with people inside is limited, and exile is a reality forced upon us by oppression. Instead of letting these limitations define me, I focus on what I can do and on how I can use my voice and my strengths to give back.
We are committed to carrying forward the spirit of the Tibetan struggle and we feel a deep responsibility to do so. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve ever set foot in Tibet; your commitment is what defines your connection. The Chinese government has worked for decades to sever our ties to Tibet, to erase our culture and identity but they have not succeeded yet. In fact, today we see a powerful new generation of highly educated and engaged young Tibetans who are strengthening the movement across diplomacy, media, academia, activism, and more. Most importantly, I want to highlight that preserving our language, culture, and traditions is not just a cultural act, it is also a form of resistance. When we adapt our identity to our modern reality and carry it with pride, we are actively pushing back against efforts to erase it. We do this to honor His Holiness the Dalai Lama, to honor those inside Tibet, and to ensure that future generations remain connected, resilient, and hopeful.
About Tenzyn Zöchbauer
Tenzyn Zöchbauer, is the Executive Director of Tibet Initiative Deutschland (TID). She holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Vienna—one in Journalism and Communication Studies, and the other in International Development. Founded in 1989, TID is one of the largest and most influential advocacy organizations for Tibet in Europe. It campaigns for the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination, raises awareness of ongoing human rights violations in Tibet, and fosters dialogue and solidarity between Tibetans and the German public.
Under Ms. Zöchbauer’s leadership, the organization has strengthened its environmental advocacy through initiatives such as the “Blue Tibet” campaign and launched the Coalition Against Transnational Repression in Germany. In 2021, she welcomed His Holiness the Dalai Lama to a virtual discussion on Tibetan Culture and its Potential to Contribute to Peace, underscoring the global relevance of Tibetan heritage and philosophy. In 2024, she was named one of the 100 Most Influential Figures in the China Scene by Table Media.
