In addition to commemorating ANZAC day today (April 25th), it’s worth mentioning that today is the birthday of Gedhun Choekyi Nyima – the 11th Panchen Lama (Tibet’s second most senior religious leader). He turns 19 today. Of course, he won’t be having a few quiet ales with his mates (not least of all because ordained Buddhist monks don’t drink). The main reason is the fact that he has not been seen since he became the world’s youngest political prisoner upon being kidnapped by the Chinese government on the 14th May 1995 (aged six).

In 1996, the Chinese government admitted to the UN to having taken the boy for his own protection, but they have refused any attempts to verify the well-being and safety of him, his family and attendents (all of whom disappeared).

You can follow this link to add your name to the petition to have Gedun Choekyi Nyima released.