China Announces Harsh Measures Against the Families and Communities of Self-Immolators

In Dzoege (Chinese: Ruo'er'gai 若尔盖) County in Sichuan Province, authorities announced harsh measures intended to punish the families of self-immolators and the monasteries to which they belong. Under the new regulations, family members of self-immolators will be subject to criminal sanctions and the deprivation of political rights, government employment, welfare benefits, home ownership, the ability to start a business, and traveling privileges.

China says Tibet policy "correct," no turning back

A recently drafted white paper issued by the Chinese government reiterates that China has no intention on altering its "correct" policies on Tibet. China has ruled Tibet with an iron-fist since the Communist Party "liberated" Tibet in 1959, trampling on traditional Tibetan culture, language, religion, and environment.

The white paper comes in the midst of widespread protests within China against Communist Party policies in Tibet. Since 2009, over 120 Tibetans have burned themselves alive in protest of Chinese government repression.

Tibetan Handed 10-Year Term for Supporting Self-Immolation

A Chinese court reportedly sentenced Washul Dotruk to 10 years in prison for his alleged involvement in a self-immolation in December 2012. Dotruk was an active community leader who had been arrested in 2008 for allegedly leading a protest against the Chinese government.

Tibetan Self-Immolations: Motives Behind the Tragic Protests

In 1949, the newly established Communist China sent troops into their neighboring country, Tibet, under the guise of wishing to aid in development and improve the living standards in the secluded country.