The International Middle Way Movement’s Belgium local chapter held a one-day workshop in the coastal city of Ostend on 3 November 2024. The program began at 10 am and was attended by approximately 30 Tibetan youth and other interested individuals. The event introduced participants to the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) and its Middle Way Policy. It also provided valuable guidance to young Tibetans residing in Belgium on navigating their educational and career paths, making the most of available opportunities.

The workshop began with singing the Tibetan national anthem, followed by a minute of silence to honour those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Lobsang Tsultrim, the organisation’s accountant, addressed the gathering, stating, “This workshop is the second of its kind. The first workshop, which also saw the participation of around 30 young people, was highly beneficial, and in response to that positive feedback, we are now organising this event. We also plan to host future workshops on the Middle Way Policy.”

As in previous events, the primary instructor for the workshop was Tenzin Phuntsok, the Liaison Officer for European Tibet Advocacy at the Brussels Office. Tenzin Phuntsok was present in person to provide an in-depth explanation of the structure of the Central Tibetan Administration and the principles underlying the Middle Way Policy. He also addressed several questions from the participants, clarifying points that generated significant interest.

In addition, the Department of Information and International Relations of the Central Tibetan Administration recently produced a poignant documentary titled A Liberation That Never Was: 70 Years of Occupation and Repression in Tibet, which was shown as a side event during the workshop. The emotionally charged film profoundly impacted all attendees, with many visibly moved by its content.

The event concluded with a special presentation by Tsering Dhondup, the president of the International Middle Way Association in Belgium, who provided insights to parents on the Belgian education system, its curriculum standards, and the importance of parental involvement in guiding their children’s educational and life choices. The workshop ended with a speech of gratitude by the organisation’s staff member, Jampa.