Tibet Justice Center

Causes: Economic Development, International, International Economic Development, International Human Rights, International Migration & Refugee Issues, Microfinance

Mission: Tibet Justice Center is the only legal organization devoted solely to the Tibetan cause. Through the rule of law and the promotion of international human rights, we advocate for the Tibetan people's right to self-determination. Founded in 1989, we are a non-profit membership organization supported by concerned individuals, attorneys, foundations and organizations. Tibet Justice Center supports Tibetans and the Tibetan Government in Exile in the struggle for justice and Tibetan autonomy. In the U.S. we provide essential legal resources for Tibetan refugees seeking assistance with political asylum and immigration questions. Internationally, we work with businesses and investors to promote positive business in Tibet, document human rights abuses in Tibet and report to international bodies and provide direct support and resources to the Tibetan Government in Exile.

Programs: Asylum and Immigration Project-This project provides Tibetan refugees in the United States with referrals to attorneys willing to offer pro bono or low cost legal services for Tibetans seeking political asylum. We maintain a Brief Bank of successful political asylum petitions to which attorneys can refer and also provide assistance with visa and immigration matters. Economic Action Project-We work with Western companies doing business in Tibet to create positive change for the Tibetan people and to establish and amplify the voice of the Tibetan people on economic development decisions involving Tibet. We work with firms to ensure that their presence in Tibet benefits the Tibetan people. This project also engages the broader business community in advocacy for the Tibetan people and for a human rights-based approach to business development. Human Right Advocacy Project-Through fact-finding missions, research, reports and lobbying efforts, this project disseminates information on the continuing violations of Tibetans' human rights by the occupying Chinese government. These goals are accomplished through United Nations advocacy, our forthcoming report about human rights violations against children and our Legal Materials on Tibet. Democracy Project-The project provides direct support to the Tibetan Government In Exile and broader support for the democratization of the exile community. Tibet Justice Center continues to assist the TGIE in education about autonomy - providing information about self-governance arrangements around the globe through our Self-Governance Study. This research can assist the TGIE in forming a model of a future Tibet. We also assist the TGIE in educating the exile community about autonomy options and designing a training program for future Legislative Counsel.