Light of Truth Award
Photo: SaveTibet
His Holiness the Dalai Lama presented the Light of Truth Awards on April 13 in Switzerland to five individuals for their outstanding contributions towards the Tibetan purpose. He acknowledged every recipient, stating “all of you have been long standing friends and supporters of Tibet, for which we are immeasurably grateful.”
The International Commission of Jurists is an NGO whose aim is to fortify the role of judges and lawyers in preserving and upholding human rights and the duty of law. This organisation received the award for providing influential reports and legal advocacy on Tibet.
Professor Theo van Boven Photo: Maastricht University
Professor Theo van Boven served as the UN’s Special Rapporteur on the Right to Reparation to Victims of Gross Violations of Human Rights from 1986 to 1984 and is also a professor emeritus in international law. He was chosen as an Award recipient for placing emphasis upon Tibetan issues and furthering the Tibetan cause, especially in the UN.
Robert Ford
Photo: Manuel Bauer
Mr. Robert Ford served under the Government of Tibet from the years 1949 to 1950 and was granted executive status for his constant support towards Tibet. He was incarcerated by the Chinese for five years during the invasion of Tibet where he had played an important role in establishing one of the earliest broadcasting stations there. Mr. Ford said “I had the great privilege of having my first audience with His Holiness [when] He was only 11-years old. I feel so honored to [receive the award] from His Holiness almost 70 years later.”
Ms. Sigrid Joss-Arnd
Photo: SaveTibet.org
Ms. Sigrid Joss-Arnd is one of the founders of the Association of Tibetan Homesteads in the 1960’s. Ms. Joss-Arnd dedicated herself to working with Tibetan Refugee children since they arrived in exile and received the award in acknowledgment of the provision of vital aid and assistance to the Tibetans in exile, as well as many humanitarian projects in Tibet.
Dr. Christian Swartz-Schilling
Photo: Wikipedia
Dr. Christian Swartz-Schilling, who served as a German Minister and former Member of Parliament, is renowned for his worldwide arbitration, his efforts in hindering conflict through his organisation, the Swartz-Schilling foundation, and for his support of the Tibetan-Chinese discourse. He said “The vision of His Holiness has inspired so many people and his power, the spiritual power, the physical power to [further his vision] in that way is giving us all hope.”
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