Press and religious freedom worsen in China | Free Tibet

Tibetan monks protesting in Tibet

China a "country of particular concern"

This year’s World Press Freedom Index ranks China at 175out of 180 countries, two places down from the previous report.

The rating applies to China as a whole but more press restrictions apply in Tibet. Last year the Chinese government harassed and threatened French journalist Cyril Payen and his news agency after they aired an undercover documentary on Tibet.

China regularly arrests Tibetans because they have shared information.

Kalsang a mother of three was arrested for her activities on social media.

Tibetans defy this censorship to share their stories. Golog Jigme Gyatso - who helped film Leaving Fear Behind, a series of interviews in which Tibetans talked frankly about China's occupation, with Dhondup Wangchen - has been listed in the Reporters without Borders “100 information heroes”.

No religious freedom

A new report by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom has stated that the US government must continue to list China as a “country of particular concern” for religious freedom.

It finds that over the past decade the conditions of Tibetan Buddhists have declined to their worst state in many years.

The Chinese government tries to discredit religious leaders who become too outspoken. Monasteries' operations are restricted and religious activity strictly monitored and controlled.

Tibetans are under heavy surveillance when carrying out religious ceremonies and in Tawu Tibetans wereshot by Chinese authorities whilst holding a prayer ceremony.

More than 125 Tibetans have set themselves on fire in protest against China's occupation with the majority calling for religious freedom and the return of their spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

Take Action

The Chinese Government cracks down on any form of expression by Tibetans including Tibetan musicians. They have been jailed for writing and singing songs celebrating Tibet, opposing China's occupation and calling for freedom.

Help us tell China to release Tibetan Musicians.