The 11th Panchen Lama Receives NED’s 2025 Democracy Service Medal
The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) awarded the 2025 Democracy Service Medal to the 11th Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima. The medal was accepted by Zeekyab Rinpoche, Abbot of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery, which is the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama.
The Life and Recognition of the 11th Panchen Lama
In 1995, when Gedhun Choekyi Nyima was six years old, His Holiness the Dalai Lama recognized him as the reincarnation of the 10th Panchen Lama, the second-highest figure in Tibetan Buddhism. Only three days later, Chinese authorities abducted the boy, making him the world’s youngest political prisoner. Three decades later, his whereabouts and condition remain unknown.
“This award affirms Tibetan Buddhists’ fundamental right to choose their own spiritual leaders free of Chinese Communist Party interference.”
Symbolism and Contemporary Significance
The medal underscores Beijing’s ongoing campaign to control the succession of Tibetan spiritual leadership, including that of the Dalai Lama, who turned 90 this year. Through this recognition, the NED reiterates global support for religious freedom and the autonomy of Tibetan spiritual traditions.
Zeekyab Rinpoche’s Role
Accepting the award, Zeekyab Rinpoche, a leading Tibetan spiritual figure in exile, has consistently advocated for religious liberty and denounced efforts by the Chinese government to suppress Tibetan spiritual authority.
About the Award
The Democracy Service Medal, granted by the National Endowment for Democracy, honors individuals whose devotion and service have made lasting contributions to the advancement of freedom worldwide.
Author’s summary: The 2025 Democracy Service Medal honors Gedhun Choekyi Nyima’s enduring symbolic role for Tibetan spiritual freedom, while amplifying calls for autonomy from Chinese state control.