China's Linguistic Campaign to Redefine Tibet
China is intensifying its international campaign to replace the name 'Tibet' with the Chinese term 'Xizang' as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its territorial claim over the region. The term 'Xizang,' which literally translates to 'western treasure house,' has been systematically promoted in official documents and international communications since 2023, when China published a white paper making it the only acceptable designation in official contexts.
Historical Context and Political Significance
The name 'Tibet' first appeared in European sources around the 7th century and derives from the Tibetan word 'bod,' which Tibetans themselves use for the region. In contrast, 'Xizang' emerged during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) but only became systematically used during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) and particularly after the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. 'The name Tibet is one of the last things that China can take away from the Tibetans,' says Casper Wits, a university lecturer at Leiden University.
This linguistic shift represents more than just a name change—it's a calculated political strategy. During his recent visit to Tibet, Chinese President Xi Jinping declared that the governance of Xizang must fully align with the Chinese Communist Party's strategy, emphasizing the political importance of this terminology.
Soft Power and International Implications
The campaign extends beyond China's borders through diplomatic channels and international organizations. 'The word Tibet carries significant international soft power: it evokes associations with a country, high mountains, culture, and Buddhism. All these images contradict the Chinese idea that Tibet is completely part of China,' explains Wits.
China has achieved some success in this campaign, with governments in Pakistan, Nepal, and Bhutan recently adopting 'Xizang' in official documents. However, European institutions have shown resistance. Museums in Paris and London faced criticism for using 'Xizang' in their catalogs and museum texts, eventually reverting to 'Tibet' after protests from Tibetan interest organizations worldwide.
Cultural Concerns and Tibetan Response
Wangpo Tethong, director of the Dutch branch of the International Campaign for Tibet, expresses deep concern about the Chinese renaming campaign. 'Many Tibetans feel that their culture and identity are under heavy pressure,' says Tethong. 'Everything that is Tibetan must disappear, with the ultimate goal of forgetting what Tibet is: a region with a long history of self-governance.'
These concerns appear justified given recent developments. During Xi's last visit to Tibet, he called for the 'Sinicization of religion,' reflecting broader efforts to assimilate Tibetan culture into mainstream Chinese society.
Media Influence and Future Prospects
China's growing media influence plays a crucial role in this campaign. According to Wits, Chinese soft power focuses more on the Global South, particularly South America, Africa, and parts of Asia. Chinese media influence in Africa has increased significantly in recent years, and China Daily, one of China's largest state newspapers, is now published in approximately 150 countries.
While the campaign has achieved limited success in Europe, experts believe China's growing media presence could lead to the gradual adoption of 'Xizang' terminology in international discourse, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The battle over names represents a fundamental struggle over identity, sovereignty, and historical narrative that continues to shape international relations and human rights discussions.