Malaya, Thailand, Ireland and El Salvador requested 2nd consideration of “The Question of Tibet” in the UN General Assembly. Resolution 1723 (XVI) was adopted by the General Assembly by a vote of 56 to 11, with 29 abstentions.
20 December 1961
The General Assembly,
Recalling its Resolution 1353 (XIV) of 21 October 1959 on the question of Tibet,
Gravely concerned at the continuation of events in Tibet, including the violation of the fundamental human rights of the Tibetan people and the suppression of the distinctive cultural and religious life which they have traditionally enjoyed,
Noting with deep anxiety the severe hardships which these events have inflicted on the Tibetan people, as evidenced by the large-scale exodus of Tibetan refugees to the neighbouring countries,
Considering that these events violate fundamental human rights and freedoms set out in the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including the principle of self-determination of peoples and nations, and have the deplorable effect of increasing international tension and embittering relations between peoples,
- Reaffirms its conviction that respect for the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is essential for the evolution of a peaceful world order based on the rule of law;
- Solemnly renews its call for the cessation of practices which deprive the Tibetan people of their fundamental human rights and freedoms, including the right to self-determination;
- Expresses the hope that Member States will make all possible efforts, as appropriate, towards achieving the purposes of the present resolution.
Remarks from various countries: