Robert Barnett (scholar)

Robert Barnett is a British academic and Tibetologist specializing in contemporary Tibetan affairs, including politics, culture, and human rights. He is known for his research on the political and social dynamics within the Tibetan Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China, as well as the broader Tibetan diaspora.

Barnett received his PhD from the University of London's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), where he subsequently taught. He has held research and teaching positions at various institutions, including Columbia University in New York City. At Columbia, he founded the Modern Tibetan Studies Program and has been a prominent voice in the field.

His work often focuses on analyzing the complexities of Tibetan-Chinese relations, examining the perspectives of both Tibetan and Chinese actors. He has written extensively on issues such as Tibetan language policy, religious freedom, and the impact of modernization on Tibetan society. Barnett’s scholarship also addresses the challenges faced by Tibetan communities both within and outside Tibet.

Barnett is also involved in public engagement and advocacy related to Tibetan issues. He frequently contributes to media outlets and participates in public forums to raise awareness and offer informed perspectives on current events affecting Tibet and its people. He is considered a leading authority on contemporary Tibet and its relationship with China.