Historic Moment For Tibetan Australians, Victims Of CCP Aggression

Australian political leaders have come together in an historic and bipartisan show of support to the Tibetan people, as they face the most egregious persecution from the Chinese Communist Party (“CCP”).

Andrew Wallace, who is Deputy Chair of Parliament’s powerful Intelligence and Security Committee, led the debate in an impassioned call for Australia to “stand up for the people of Tibet” and “stand up to the CCP” as Australia confronts ongoing foreign interference and aggression from the Chinese Government.

“We can’t mince our words when it comes to the human rights situation facing Tibetans. Organ trafficking, torture, forced labour, disappearances, trafficking, murder, and wrongful imprisonment are all tools used by the Chinese Communist Party to oppress religious and ethnic minorities in China,” Mr Wallace said.

“I have spoken with survivors. I’ve visited Taiwan. I’ve had the briefings from our agencies and diplomats. Just today, I met with young Tibetan leaders. Their passion and courage are inspiring, in the face of heartbreaking tragedy and abuse,” Mr Wallace added.

“Tibetans, Uyghurs, Hong Kongers, Democracy Activists, Christians, and journalists, among many others, face barbaric treatment under the Chinese Communist regime,” Mr Wallace continued.

“If Australia does not speak up for those who share our democratic values, who will? If we don’t speak up now, while conflict looms, when will we speak up? Australia has a responsibility to demonstrate moral clarity and leadership in our region. Australians expect nothing less,” Mr Wallace continued.

Dr Zoe Bedford, Executive Director of the Australia Tibet Council, organised a youth empowerment day for young Tibetan Australians to speak directly with Australian parliamentary leaders, advocating for peace with justice for Tibet. She highlighted the unique event as an opportunity to show Australian democracy at its best.

“Experiencing and participating in Australia’s democracy is important to Tibetans in Australia - having been denied the opportunity for democracy in Tibet. Today, I know that the young leaders visiting today leave knowing that they have the support of, and friendship in the Australian people and their Parliament,” said Dr Bedford.

Members from the Liberal Party, National Party, and the Australian Labor Party contributed to the bipartisan debate, which can be viewed at https://parlview.aph.gov.au/. Mr Wallace’s speech can be found at https://youtu.be/aAs-oBrjTpY.