Authoritarian regimes can often seem too difficult to topple. But history shows that when mass numbers of people unite, they can achieve political rights even in the most brutal political systems. Learn how!
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Why Strategic Nonviolent Action?
The concept of nonviolence can evoke many responses. There are some traits that nonviolence is and is not, that help determine why we might choose strategic nonviolence in our movements.
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Strategic nonviolence Is…
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Proactively using psychological, social, economic, and/or political methods
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Able to engage widespread participation
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Based on the ability and strength to disobey
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Identified by the actions people take, not by what they believe
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Strategic nonviolence is not…
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A submissive/passive stance
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Loving one’s enemy
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A path cowards choose
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Based only on verbal methods
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Assuming people are inherently “good”
History shows that when enough people come together and challenge hierarchical power with strategic planning, unity of purpose, and nonviolent discipline, people power can win.
Below is a library of information on how communities have won through strategic nonviolent action. Prepare to be inspired!
LANGUAGE RIGHTS
Language is critical to maintaining culture and identity for people around the world. In Tibet, despite China’s systematic attempt to stamp out the Tibetan language, Tibetans continue to press for their rights.
ECONOMIC JUSTICE
Tibet is resource rich, exploited by China’s occupation. Like other communities, Tibetans are fighting practices that largely benefit outside interests, asserting their right to control their economies.
CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS RIGHTS
Religion and culture form the very fabric of Tibetan society. Through cultural expressions like dance, dress, and ceremonies, Tibetans are asserting their identity as Tibetan, including their right to religious freedom.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Environmental protection is a pressing global issue of our time. In Tibet, as around the world, countless inspiring people and communities are stopping mining, protecting endangered species, starting eco-tourism projects, and more.
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Learn more about strategic nonviolence here:
Under repressive regimes, nonviolence is often strategically chosen because it has been proven to be twice as successful—and growing—than violent campaigns. This is true with the sustained and active participation of just 3.5% to 5% of the affected population!
For decades, Tibetans have used nonviolent action as the primary method of resistance, keeping Tibet a thorn in the side of China’s government. We at Tibet Action are convinced through our years of activism that strategic nonviolence is the most resilient, results-oriented path to freedom in Tibet.
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