In Voice for the Voiceless, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama provides a deeply personal and definitive account of his lifelong efforts to advocate for Tibet and its people amid decades of complex relations with China. The memoir chronicles his journey from assuming leadership at the age of 16, through the challenges of exile, to his persistent endeavors to preserve Tibetan culture, religion, and autonomy. The Dalai Lama reflects on his dialogues with Chinese leaders, the hardships faced by Tibetans under Chinese rule, and his vision for Tibet's future. Notably, he addresses the sensitive issue of his succession, expressing his intention for his reincarnation to occur outside of Chinese influence and urging Tibetans to reject any successor appointed by Beijing. ​

Why read this book?

• Offers an intimate perspective on the Tibetan struggle for autonomy and cultural preservation.​

• Provides insights into the Dalai Lama's personal experiences and spiritual leadership amid political turmoil.​

• Explores themes of resilience, non-violence, and the pursuit of dialogue in conflict resolution.​

• Sheds light on the complexities of Sino-Tibetan relations and the broader implications for human rights and international politics.​

About the Author

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and a globally recognized advocate for peace, compassion, and human rights. Born in 1935, he was identified as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama at the age of two and assumed full political power in Tibet by 16. Following the 1959 Tibetan uprising, he sought refuge in India, where he established the Central Tibetan Administration. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, the Dalai Lama continues to be a prominent voice for non-violent resistance and the preservation of Tibetan culture and autonomy.