At 91, the Dalai Lama faces China’s succession push as US backs Tibetan autonomy

The existence of two Dalai Lamas presents an unprecedented test for Beijing’s tolerance of challenges to its authority.

Image via Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama’s 91st birthday and a fresh U.S. statement supporting Tibetan autonomy are sharpening focus on Beijing’s long-running effort to control who comes after him.

“Unalienable human rights”

Last week, a State Department spokesperson said the U.S. supports the “unalienable human rights and aspirations of Tibetans” to sustain th…