Parliament of the Central Tibetan Administration, also known as the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, refers to the legislative body of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the government-in-exile representing the Tibetan people. The CTA was established after the Dalai Lama, the spiritual and political leader of Tibet, along with thousands of Tibetans, fled into exile in India following the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959.
The Parliament of the Central Tibetan Administration consists of elected representatives who are responsible for enacting laws, drafting policies, and overseeing the functioning of the Tibetan exile community. The parliament is composed of two houses: the Assembly of Tibetan People's Deputies and the Tibetan Parliamentary Council.
The Assembly of Tibetan People's Deputies (ATPD) is the lower house of the parliament. It consists of 45 members, with ten representatives elected from each of the three traditional provinces of Tibet, and five representatives elected by Tibetans residing outside Tibet. These deputies serve for a term of five years, and they elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker to preside over the house proceedings.
The Tibetan Parliamentary Council (TPC), on the other hand, is the upper house of the parliament. It comprises 11 members, who are elected by the ATPD members. The TPC acts as an advisory body, providing guidance and expertise on matters of legislation and policy-making.
The Parliament of the Central Tibetan Administration plays a crucial role in representing the Tibetan diaspora, promoting the cause of Tibet, and preserving Tibetan culture and identity. It provides a platform for the Tibetan community to voice their concerns, engage in democratic decision-making, and work towards the ultimate goal of restoring freedom and autonomy to Tibet.
