Swiss-Tibetan Lawyer Arya Amipas Leads Cultural Preservation Efforts Despite Chinese Pressure
In 1950, China's takeover of Tibet led to a 1959 uprising and the Dalai Lama's exile to India. Today, around 7,500 Tibetan exiles call Switzerland home, one of the largest communities worldwide. Arya Amipas, a Swiss-Tibetan lawyer, is at the forefront of preserving Tibetan culture and activism, facing challenges and personal sacrifices.
Amipas, 31, grew up in a refugee family, experiencing pain and separation from relatives. He first visited Tibet at age 12, a memory etched by his aunt's tears. Now, he's co-president of the Tibetan Youth in Europe, devoting almost all his free time to cultural preservation. His activism has led to concessions in his relationship with girlfriend Lhazen Chhiring, a fellow Tibetan activist.
The first Tibetan refugees arrived in Switzerland in 1960, initially accommodated in the Pestalozzi Children's Village in Trogen and Rikon. Early support came from local humanitarian groups, though no specific name was found. Today, around 7,500 exile Tibetans live in Switzerland, making it one of the largest Tibetan exile communities. Having Tibetan roots has made it easier for Amipas and Chhiring to understand and support each other's engagement.
Amipas and Chhiring are aware of being monitored by Chinese authorities due to their public engagement against China. This aligns with a 2025 Federal Council report stating that China is likely putting pressure on Tibetan and Uighur exiles living in Switzerland.
Amipas' activism, despite personal sacrifices, reflects the resilience and determination of the Tibetan exile community in Switzerland. Their advocacy for cultural preservation and human rights continues, even in the face of external pressure.
