Last summer, the Dalai Lama announced his plan to reincarnate outside China, resparking a decades-long dispute over his succession. Many have seen this as a direct response to the Chinese government’s increasing encroachment on and restriction of the succession of Tibetan religious figures, including the Panchen and Karmapa Lamas. At the heart of this dispute is the larger fight for Tibetan autonomy and independence. Join the International Policy Program for a conversation with Dr. Lobsang Sangay, the former Sikyong, or President, of the Central Tibetan Administration, to discuss Tibetan autonomy and the future of the Dalai Lama. 

Please note that this event will not be livestreamed or otherwise recorded.

If you have any questions about accessibility, please contact iopevents@uchicago.edu.

Wednesday, January 7 2026

11:30 am – 12:30 pm CT

Institute of Politics