Palace in Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region. Photo: VCG

Earlier this year, I was pleased to visit Xizang and witness China's efforts in promoting unity among different ethnic groups with my own eyes. During my time there, I observed certain realities of Xizang that contrast sharply with the narratives often presented in the West. Xizang is not the marginalized and backward region I initially thought; instead, it boasts impressive infrastructure and reflects the Chinese government's respect for the religious and cultural life of the Tibetan people.

Several aspects impressed me during my recent visit. The first was education. I was surprised to find that Xizang has a publicly funded education system that covers school meals, lodging, and tuition from kindergarten to senior high school, ensuring equal educational opportunities for all children. I visited a public boarding school where many students were doing homework in the classroom, learning in both Tibetan and Putonghua. In certain countries, minority languages are not respected, but in the schools that we visited, minority languages are valued. I also had discussions with students in vocational training. By providing practical skills, students can become productive members of society, even if they do not pursue academic courses in university.

I was also impressed by the level of development in Xizang, particularly the infrastructure, which astonished me since I had never been to such a mountainous region before. The breathtaking high altitude was notable, yet the overall infrastructure, including the roads, was well-maintained. We also visited a village whose residents had relocated from arid areas. China has helped millions escape poverty, and this village exemplifies those efforts. The local government established a modern community there, providing factory jobs that enable residents to access employment and services. When people read some of the international human rights instruments, they should notice that development rights are now recognized as human rights.

At the same time, I was curious about the relocation of the villagers and whether it was voluntary. We interviewed one family who confirmed that their relocation was indeed voluntary; those who chose not to move were allowed to stay. Regarding allegations of forced labor in China, the information I gathered from several brewery and milk production facilities indicated that they prioritize high wages and respect for labor rights.

We also visited a family-run brewery that collaborates with countries like Sweden and Germany to purchase equipment. Despite differences between the West and China, partnerships are being forged at the economic level. Collaborating with countries that provide the necessary expertise is valuable, as long as it respects local culture, environment, and people. China's economic development cooperates with Western countries in this manner.

In Xizang, I also witnessed the Chinese government's respect for the environment and the culture of the Tibetan people. The famous Potala Palace attracts many tourists, with a steady stream of Tibetans coming to pay their respects, indicating a vibrant cultural life. Visiting religious sites was another important aspect of this trip. We are very interested in religious freedom, and saw people openly practicing their faith there. I did not find any restrictions on their cultural and religious beliefs; instead, I observed that they freely engaged in their practices. The integration of modern life with respect for cultural and religious beliefs is truly encouraging.

As a researcher and human rights lawyer, I believe in the importance of evidence when making allegations. Before my visit to Xizang, I had noticed Western media reports regarding human rights issues, but at that time, I could not guarantee their accuracy since I had not been to those areas myself. During my visit, I observed the real situations in Xizang. I think it is essential for scholars and civil society members who claim that there are human rights issues in Xizang to come and see for themselves, collect evidence, and engage with the local people to verify their claims. They need objective analysis rather than relying solely on Western media reports.

The article was compiled based on an interview with Lloyd Kuveya, assistant director of the Center for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. opinion@globaltimes.com.cn