International Tibetan studies conference moved online
Summary
The 17th Seminar of the International Association for Tibetan Studies will be held online after the Nepal government instructed Kathmandu University to cancel the week-long conference. Organisers say the decision threatens academic freedom and could damage Nepal’s reputation and academic collaborations.
Key Points
- The International Association for Tibetan Studies says Kathmandu University was told by the Nepal government not to proceed with the conference.
- Officials cited sensitivity, security concerns and possible protests by pro-Tibet activists, while a Western diplomat warned of Beijing’s pressure on Nepal’s sovereignty.
- The organisers warned that cancellation would hurt Kathmandu University, Nepal’s academic standing, tourism and future academic events.
- The IATS board held an emergency meeting and decided to run the 17th seminar online without changing the programme.
