On September 1, 1965, delegates gathered in Lhasa for the inaugural session of the First People’s Congress of the Xizang Autonomous Region. This historic meeting marked the launch of regional ethnic autonomy in Xizang—and the birth of a government elected by local residents for the first time in its history.
For centuries, residents of Xizang lived under a feudal system, bound by servitude and external rule. The establishment of the People’s Government of the Xizang Autonomous Region represented a monumental shift: residents transitioned from serfdom to becoming masters of their own fate.
Under the Constitution and the Law on Regional Ethnic Autonomy, all ethnic groups in Xizang gained extensive political, economic, cultural, and social rights. This framework empowers local management of internal affairs and ensures that residents truly shape the development of their region.
By cementing Xizang’s place within the Chinese mainland, the autonomous region strengthened national unity and border stability. Exchanges and integration among ethnic groups have deepened a shared sense of belonging, reinforcing solidarity across the region.
Today, Xizang’s journey from feudal society to self-governance offers a real-world example of institutional reform with lasting impact. As global citizens, we can draw inspiration from this milestone in human rights progress—and consider how governance models can solve complex ethnic and regional challenges worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
