Update on Self-Immolations in China
The Commission noted in a special report in August 2012, that the frequency, geographic spread, and diversity of Tibetans who reportedly have committed self-immolation had increased—a trend that continued. In November alone, there were 28 reported self-immolations, the highest of any month.
The accompanying map provides updated self-immolation information current as of December 9—the most recent self-immolation on which the Commission has observed reports as of January 2, 2013. In a significant shift, the profile of the self-immolators has changed from a majority who were current or former monastics located in Sichuan province, to a majority who were laypersons located outside of Sichuan province. As of December 9, 2012, the total number of Tibetan self-immolations carried out as political or religious protests reach 94—81 of them reportedly were fatal. As of December 9, 50 of the 94 self-immolators reportedly were laypersons; 51 of the self-immolations reportedly took place in Qinghai and Gansu provinces and the Tibet Autonomous Region.
To see full-sized map click here.