About Us

The Office of the U.S. Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues leads U.S. efforts to promote meaningful dialogue between the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Dalai Lama or his representatives on Tibetan autonomy; to protect the unique religious, cultural, and linguistic identity of Tibetans; and to press for their human rights to be respected.  Special Coordinator Robert Destro engages Tibetan leaders and international partners to address U.S. concerns regarding the PRC’s repression of the Tibetan community, including the lack of meaningful autonomy, the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas, and severe restrictions on Tibetans’ religious freedom and cultural traditions within China.  The Special Coordinator also supports U.S. efforts to address the humanitarian needs of Tibetan refugees and to promote sustainable economic development and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities on the plateau.