We, the undersigned, stand in solidarity with the Dege Wonpo Tibetan people in their plea to halt the forced relocation and dam construction project in Tibet,  Dege Dzong, Sichuan.

For over 70 years, Tibet has endured oppressive policies and actions imposed by the Chinese government, disregarding the will of the Tibetan people. The recent directive to forcefully relocate residents and monasteries from Wonto village for a major dam construction project on the Drichu River is a grave injustice that cannot be ignored.

Since February 14th, 2024, hundreds of Tibetan men, women, and monks have peacefully protested at the construction site, imploring the Chinese authorities to reconsider their decision. However, their legitimate demands have been met with violence, detention, and assault, reflecting the continued suppression of Tibetan voices.

The proposed dam construction and subsequent displacement pose dire threats to Tibet’s environment, natural resources, livelihoods, and the rich cultural heritage of its people. Drichu River, one of Tibet’s lifelines, sustains local communities and ecosystems, whose disruption would have far-reaching consequences, impacting millions across Tibet and neighbouring regions. China’s continuing water diversion project and damming on major rivers of Tibet, such as Brahmaputra, Mekong and Yangtze, raises serious concerns to environmentalists, policymakers and geopolitical tensions with neighbouring countries that depend on these rivers.

Furthermore, the forced relocation of residents from Wonpo village, Dege, signifies a deliberate attempt to erase the cultural and historical fabric of the region. Wonto holds deep significance in Dege’s history, serving as a bastion of Tibetan Buddhism, culture, and language. Its inhabitants face the imminent threat of losing their ancestral lands and identity.

Therefore, we call upon the Chinese government to:

    1.    Immediately halt all forced relocation efforts and construction activities in Tibet, including the Dege Wonpo village.
    2.    Respect the rights and autonomy of the Tibetan people, allowing them to voice their concerns without fear of reprisal.
    3.    Engage in meaningful dialogue with Tibetan representatives to address grievances and seek mutually beneficial solutions.

By signing this petition, we affirm our commitment to justice, human rights, and the preservation of Tibet's right to their land. Let us stand together in solidarity with the Wonpo Tibetan people and demand an end to their suffering and oppression.