Wednesday, 28 August 2024

 Sam HIBBINS (Prahran) (10:03): I rise today to support the Tibetan people’s nonviolent struggle for freedom and autonomy. I met with a delegation of representatives from the Tibetan government in exile who recently visited the Victorian Parliament, and their visit was a powerful reminder of just what is occurring in Tibet under the illegal occupation by China. During the visit the Tibetan delegation highlighted the ongoing oppression and abuse of the human rights of the Tibetan people by the Chinese government, including religious repression, forced assimilation, environmental destruction, arbitrary arrest and detention, persecution and surveillance. Despite the systemic destruction of its culture and freedom, Tibet’s determination to achieve self-determination remains strong. The unwavering resilience of the global Tibetan community continues to inspire me and many others. As a democratic society, we must stand with those who are fighting to uphold freedom and human rights, so I urge the Victorian Parliament and fellow MPs to hear and support Tibetans, to advocate for the rights of the Tibetan people and to support their peaceful struggle for self-determination. Free Tibet.