The recognition of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the 11th Panchen Lama on 14 May 1995 triggered a rapid state intervention within the People's Republic of China. Three days after the 14th Dalai Lama confirmed his status, the six-year-old child was forcibly removed from his home, initiating a disappearance that continues to draw international concern.
Selection Process and Controversy
Following the 1989 death of the 10th Panchen Lama, a search committee led by Chadrel Rinpoche attempted to identify the successor. While Rinpoche maintained private discussions with the Dalai Lama to align on a candidate, Chinese authorities sought to influence the outcome. After the Dalai Lama identified Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the reincarnation, the Chinese government arrested Chadrel Rinpoche for leaking state secrets. A new committee was established, eventually selecting Gyaincain Norbu via a Golden Urn ceremony, a procedure rooted in 1793 practices.
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Since his removal in May 1995, the location of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima and his family remains undisclosed. International bodies, including the United Nations, have repeatedly requested access to verify his status. Chinese officials initially stated his whereabouts were kept hidden for safety, later claiming he was living a normal life. In 2020, the Chinese government asserted he had attained a university degree and stable employment, though no evidence has been presented to external observers.
Global Advocacy
The case has prompted interventions from numerous states, human rights organizations, and private individuals. In 1996, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child requested specific details on his location. A petition for his release later garnered support from over 400 individuals, including six Nobel Prize winners. Advocacy continued into 2020, with 159 independent organizations across 18 countries calling for confirmation of his well-being, yet access to the Panchen Lama has never been granted.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 April 1989, Lhari County
- Citizenship: People's Republic of China
- Religion: Buddhism
- Recognized as 11th Panchen Lama: 14 May 1995
- Occupations: Political prisoner
Questions readers ask
Why is there more than one Panchen Lama?
The situation stems from a conflict where the Dalai Lama recognized Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, while the Chinese government designated Gyaincain Norbu as the 11th Panchen Lama.
Is Gedhun Choekyi Nyima still alive?
The Chinese government stated in 2020 that he is a college graduate with a job, but they have not allowed international observers to visit or verify his current status.
