Sikyong

Sikyong is the title used for the political head of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), the government-in-exile of Tibet based in Dharamsala, India. The Sikyong functions as the chief executive of the CTA, which oversees the Tibetan diaspora’s civil, cultural, and political affairs alongside the Tibetan Parliament in Exile and the Kashag, the cabinet.

Election and term: The Sikyong is elected by eligible Tibetan voters within the exile community and, where applicable, in Tibet through the CTA’s electoral process. Terms are five years, and a Sikyong may serve up to two consecutive terms. The position emerged as part of the CTA’s democratic reforms that culminated in transferring political authority from the Dalai Lama to elected representatives in the late 2000s and early 2010s.

Responsibilities and powers: The Sikyong chairs the Kashag and is responsible for administering government policy, budget, and administration, as well as representing the CTA in international engagements and at bilateral or multilateral forums. The Sikyong also works with the Tibetan Parliament in Exile to implement laws and policies that affect the Tibetan community in exile and in regions with Tibetan populations. The role emphasizes governance, development, education, culture, and the preservation of Tibetan rights and identity.

Historical context: In 2011, the Dalai Lama devolved political authority to elected leaders, marking a transition from a primarily spiritual and symbolic leadership to a democratically elected political system. The Sikyong is thus the political leader within a constitutional framework alongside the parliamentary body and the Kashag.

Notable Sikyongs: Lobsang Sangay served from 2011 to 2021, followed by Penpa Tsering, who took office in 2021. The office continues to function within the broader structure of the Central Tibetan Administration.