All Things Policy Thinking through the Dalai Lama's Succession
Sep 16, 2025
Anushka Saxena, a researcher at the Indo-Pacific Studies program at the Takshashila Institution, explores the complex dynamics surrounding the succession of the 14th Dalai Lama. She discusses the geopolitical implications of the Dalai Lama's comments about his potential successor being born outside of China. The conversation also highlights the divergent views of India and China's governments regarding the next Dalai Lama, and the potential legitimacy struggles that arise from this. Saxena provides insights on how this succession could impact regional Buddhism and diplomatic relations.
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Dalai Lama Intends Succession Outside China
- The 14th Dalai Lama affirmed the institution will continue and the Gaden Phodrang Trust will lead the succession process.
- He said the next Dalai Lama could be born outside China, which threatens Beijing's control over legitimacy.
Trust-Controlled Succession Limits External Claims
- The Dalai Lama named the Gaden Phodrang Trust as the sole authority to search for his successor.
- That centralization aims to block external claims, especially from Beijing, over the reincarnation.
Beijing Treats Succession As Sovereignty Issue
- Succession raises legitimacy battles because Tibet's political status and religious leadership are intertwined in Beijing's view.
- China sees any foreign support for the Dalai Lama as interference in its internal affairs.
