His Holiness The 14th Dalai Lama, Gold Mercury Award 2025 for Advancing a Culture of Peace, Compassion and Environmental Stewardship
In an era of rising conflict, division, and environmental crisis, the timeless wisdom of His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, is more urgent than ever. The 2025 Gold Mercury Award marks a historic year for the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, as the Dalai Lama celebrates his 90th birthday.
His Holiness Tenzyn Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama. Winner Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Visionary Governance 2025
This honour calls on world leaders to envision a future where humanity unites as one—living in peace, fostering cooperation, and protecting, rather than exploiting, our planet’s resources.
Through his commitment to peace, reconciliation, interfaith dialogue, and environmental stewardship, he champions non-violence and defends the dignity and rights of all people. His advocacy for protecting our planet highlights the profound link between ecological harmony and lasting peace. The Gold Mercury Award Ceremony will be held in Dharamsala, the home of the Dalai Lama in the Indian Himalayan region, on 31st March 2025, to honour His Holiness in a momentous celebration of his life and legacy.
Gold Mercury Award 2025 Motivation in the Historic Year Marking His Holiness’ 90th Birthday.
For his vital contribution to fostering a global culture of peace, non-violence and environmental stewardship, His Holiness Tenzyn Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama is honoured with the Gold Mercury Award 2025.
“Compassion and concern for others are the keys to human survival. They are relevant to anyone, whether believer or non-believer, who wishes to live a happy life.”
Gold Mercury Award 2025 for Peace and Visionary Governance: Honouring His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Gold Mercury International is privileged to bestow the Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Visionary Governance upon His Holiness, Tenzyn Giatso, the 14th Dalai Lama. This honour comes in a historic year as His Holiness marks his 90th birthday, celebrating a lifetime of unwavering commitment to peace, reconciliation, interfaith dialogue, a culture of wisdom and the protection of our planet.
Amid rising global uncertainties in security, peaceful relations, and environmental sustainability, his teachings continue to inspire individuals, communities, and leaders to build a more just, peaceful, equitable, and sustainable world. His Holiness is a continuous champion for the protection of the rights of the Tibetan people using non-violent means following in the footsteps of Mahatma Ghandi.
The Dalai Lama
Universal Responsibility for all human beings
Rooted in Buddhist philosophy, His Holiness has always emphasised reverence for all living beings and the deep interdependence between humanity and nature. His philosophy of peace is based on the idea of UNIVERSAL RESPONSIBILITY, where each individual has a duty to foster harmony, not just among people and nations but also between humanity and the natural world. This commitment is clearly articulated in his Four Main Commitments in life: the promotion of human values, religious harmony, the preservation of Tibet’s spiritual heritage and its environment and the promotion of ancient wisdom culture in the field of education. As he celebrates his 90th year, this lifelong commitment continues to inspire action for the planet’s well-being, aligning with his broader vision of creating a more sustainable and peaceful world.
Champion of Peace and Reconciliation
Throughout his life, His Holiness has been a steadfast advocate for peace and reconciliation, transcending cultural, religious, and national boundaries. His message of non-violence and compassion resonates with an urgency that addresses today's global challenges. By championing peaceful solutions to conflict and encouraging mutual respect among diverse communities, His Holiness provides a powerful model for overcoming division and fostering unity.
Promoter of Interfaith Dialogue
A hallmark of His Holiness’s work is his commitment to fostering understanding among the world’s religions. His leadership in interfaith dialogue has built bridges of trust and cooperation among faiths, offering a pathway to harmony in an increasingly polarised world. His teachings remind us that shared values of compassion and respect underpin all religious traditions, creating a foundation for enduring global peace.
Advocate for Human Rights and Justice
His Holiness’s unwavering support for human dignity and freedom shines as a beacon of hope. His efforts on behalf of the Tibetan people exemplify his steadfast commitment to justice and the preservation of cultural identity. Despite immense challenges, His resilience and dedication to peaceful advocacy and non-violence reflect the courage needed to champion human rights on a global scale.
Environmental Stewardship - The critical importance of the Tibetan Plateau for Global Sustainability
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has long been a passionate advocate for environmental protection, recognising the profound interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world. He has consistently called for urgent action to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecological degradation, emphasising the moral responsibility of individuals and nations to safeguard the planet for future generations. Rooted in Buddhist principles of compassion and interdependence, his teachings highlight the need for sustainable living, ethical leadership, and a deep respect for nature. Through his speeches, writings, and collaboration with global environmental leaders, he continues to inspire a collective commitment to preserving the Earth as a foundation for lasting peace and harmony. His Holiness’s message of global cooperation also highlights the ecological significance of the Tibetan Plateau—often called the world’s “Third Pole” due to its vast freshwater reserves. As the source of Asia’s major rivers, it holds the largest store of fresh water outside the Arctic and Antarctic, underscoring the urgent need for its protection to ensure the stability of the region and the planet.
Innovator in Wisdom Culture and Ethical Education and Learning
Recognising the critical role of education in building a peaceful future, His Holiness has pioneered transformative approaches to wisdom learning. By promoting social, emotional, and ethical education, he has cultivated a global culture of empathy and ethical responsibility. These efforts equip future generations with the tools to navigate a complex world with wisdom and compassion.
A Pathway to Healing and a Messenger of Hope to our World
In times of violence and discord, His Holiness’s teachings on compassion, forgiveness, and empathy serve as a guiding light for healing and reconciliation. His philosophy underscores the importance of embracing shared humanity to resolve differences and create a harmonious global community.
A Legacy of Global Leadership in Peace and Compassion for Others
His Holiness’s lifelong dedication to the principles of peace, dialogue, and non-violence exemplifies the values championed by the Gold Mercury International Foundation. His profound influence as a spiritual leader and advocate for global harmony has touched millions, inspiring individuals and nations alike to envision a more compassionate and peaceful world.
The Gold Mercury Award for Peace celebrates His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s extraordinary contributions, which continue to illuminate the path towards a future grounded in understanding, justice, and lasting peace.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Gold Mercury Award for Advancing a Culture of Peace, Non-violence, and Environmental Stewardship, symbolising our shared commitment to a more compassionate and sustainable world. This recognition reminds us of our collective responsibility to foster understanding, wisdom, and environmental harmony. My heartfelt thanks to Gold Mercury International for their dedication to these universal values.”
Nicolas De Santis Cuadra, President, Gold Mercury International
“His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama’s profound Buddhist commitment to non-violence, compassion, a culture of wisdom, and the environment has transformed our global consciousness. In this milestone year of his 90th birthday, we recognise his extraordinary efforts to contribute to earth creating a planetary culture of peace, non-violence, and environmental responsibility. His message of peace, compassion, human dignity, and environmental stewardship is more vital than ever in guiding humanity towards a sustainable future.”
The Indian Himalayas - Home of the Dalai Lama
GLOBAL NEWS COVERAGE GALLERY (USE SIDE BUTTONS)
Award Ceremony Programme and Speeches
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GOLD MERCURY AWARD CEREMONY 2025 - DHARAMSALA, INDIAN HIMALAYAS
Event Programme, 31st March, 20251.Ceremony Welcome and Introduction
2.Gold Mercury Award Speech
Nicolas De Santis Cuadra, President of Gold Mercury International
3.Presentation of the Award
To His Holiness, Tenzyn Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama4.Award Acceptance Speech
His Holiness, Tenzyn Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama5.Closing Remarks
Nicolas De Santis Cuadra, President of Gold Mercury International
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Gold Mercury Award 2025 Presentation Speech
Honouring His Holiness, the 14th Dalai LamaDharamsala, India – 31st March 2025
Your Holiness, esteemed guests, distinguished leaders, and dear friends,
It is with profound respect and great honour that we gather here today to celebrate the extraordinary life and achievements of His Holiness, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, as we present him with the Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainabilty. This prestigious honour recognises his lifelong commitment to peace, non-violence, ethical leadership, wisdom-culture, and environmental stewardship.
This award comes at a momentous time—His Holiness’s 90th birthday—a milestone in a life dedicated to the highest ideals of humanity. Through decades of unwavering service to the global community, His Holiness has remained a beacon of wisdom, humility, and compassion. His message of peace and universal responsibility has not only shaped the hearts and minds of individuals but has also influenced leaders, institutions, and societies across the world.
Your Holiness, in an era increasingly defined by conflict, division, and environmental degradation, your teachings have never been more relevant. You have shown us that true leadership is not about power, but about service. That the path to lasting peace is not through force, but through understanding. That the survival of our planet depends not only on technology but on a profound shift in human consciousness.
Your advocacy for non-violence and the fundamental rights and dignity of all people, especially the Tibetan people, continues to inspire millions. By following in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi, you have demonstrated that even in the face of adversity, dialogue and compassion are the strongest forces for change.
Your commitment to environmental stewardship has brought global awareness to the fragile state of our planet. Long before sustainability became a universal concern, you championed the cause of protecting our shared home, reminding us of the deep interconnection between human well-being and the health of the natural world. Your advocacy at key moments, including the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, and your focus on the ecological importance of the Tibetan Plateau, have contributed immensely to the global movement for climate action.
Your philosophy of Universal Responsibility teaches us that we each hold a duty—not just to our own communities, but to all of humanity and to future generations. Through your Four Main Commitments—the promotion of human values, interfaith harmony, the preservation of Tibet’s heritage, and the integration of ancient wisdom into modern education—you have guided the world toward a deeper understanding of harmony and interdependence.
At Gold Mercury International, our mission is to recognise and support visionary leadership that advances global governance, sustainability, and ethical progress. Since 1961, the Gold Mercury Award has been bestowed upon extraordinary individuals who have shaped history—world leaders, scientists, humanitarians, and activists who, like you, have dedicated their lives to a more peaceful and sustainable future.
Your Holiness, our presence here today reminds us that the work of peace and enlightenment is never complete, but that each of us, in our own way, can contribute to a better world. Your lifelong journey stands as an enduring testament to the power of wisdom, patience, and the belief that change is always possible.
On behalf of Gold Mercury International, it is my deepest privilege to present you with the Gold Mercury Award 2025 for Peace and Sustainability—an award not just in recognition of your past achievements, but as a tribute to your continued inspiration for generations to come.
May your teachings continue to illuminate the path of peace, compassion, and environmental responsibility for all of humanity.
Thank you, Your Holiness. We honour you today, and always.
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Gold Mercury Award 2025 Abbreviated Presentation Speech
Honouring His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama
Dharamsala, India – 31st March 2025
Your Holiness, esteemed guests, and friends,
It is a profound honour to present to you the Gold Mercury Award for Peace and Sustainability 2025. You are a leader whose wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication to peace have inspired the world.
As we celebrate Your Holiness’s 90th birthday, we reflect on your extraordinary legacy. For decades, you has championed non-violence, human dignity, interfaith dialogue, and environmental stewardship, always reminding us that true peace begins within. Your message of universal responsibility teaches us that we are all connected—not just as nations, but as one human family, sharing one fragile planet.
Your Holiness you have defended the rights of the Tibetan people through non-violent means, and you are also a global voice for sustainability, warning of the urgent need to protect our environment long before climate change became a worldwide concern.
At Gold Mercury International, we honour visionary leaders who shape the future with courage and integrity. Your Holiness embodies these ideals, and your teachings will continue to guide generations toward a more peaceful and ethical world.
Your Holiness, it is with deep respect and gratitude that we present you with the Gold Mercury Award 2025—in recognition of your lifelong commitment to a better world for all.
Thank you.
Nicolas De Santis Cuadra
President
Gold Mercury International
Award Press Release
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The Dalai Lama – Gold Mercury Award 2025: For His Enduring Message of Peace, Hope, and Sustainability in a World Marked by Conflict and Uncertainty.
The 2025 Gold Mercury Award marks a historic year for the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, as His Holiness the Dalai Lama celebrates his 90th birthday. This honour calls on world leaders to envision a future where humanity unites as one—living in peace, fostering cooperation, and protecting, rather than exploiting, our planet’s resources.
London, 10th March 2025 – Gold Mercury International, the global governance think tank, has awarded its Gold Mercury Award® 2025 to His Holiness, Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama for advancing a culture of peace, compassion and sustainability.
At a time of rising global tensions, conflict and environmental challenges, this award honours His Holiness’s unwavering leadership in promoting peace, non-violence, wisdom culture, and environmental stewardship.His philosophy of peace and compassion are rooted in the principle of Universal Responsibility, as reflected in his Four Main Commitments in life: promoting human values, fostering religious harmony, preserving Tibet’s spiritual heritage and environment, and advancing ancient wisdom culture in education.
"His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s profound commitment to non-violence, compassion, a culture of wisdom, and environmental stewardship has profoundly shaped our global consciousness, and is rooted in our ability to achieve inner peace, wholeheartedness, and sincerity. This is why it is so relevant today." said Nicolas De Santis Cuadra, President of Gold Mercury International.
“Compassion and concern for others are the keys to human survival. They are relevant to anyone, whether believer or non-believer, who wishes to live a happy life.” said Tenzin Gyatso, The Dalai Lama
Rooted in Buddhist philosophy, His Holiness emphasises reverence for all living beings and the deep interdependence between humanity and nature. As a global symbol of non-violence and advocate for the rights of the Tibetan people and the protection of their ecological environment, he continues to inspire individuals, communities, and leaders to foster a more just, peaceful, equitable, and sustainable world.
His Holiness’s message of global cooperation also highlights the ecological significance of the Tibetan Plateau—often called the world’s “Third Pole” due to its vast freshwater reserves. As the source of Asia’s major rivers, it holds the largest store of fresh water outside the Arctic and Antarctic, underscoring the urgent need for its protection to ensure the stability of the region and the planet.
The Gold Mercury Award Ceremony will be held in Dharamsala, the home of the Dalai Lama in the Indian Himalayan region, on 31st March 2025, to honour His Holiness in a momentous celebration of his life and legacy.About Gold Mercury International and the Gold Mercury Awards®
Founded in 1961, Gold Mercury International is The global governance think tank, dedicated to advancing peace and international cooperation. At the heart of its legacy are the Gold Mercury Awards®—the first global accolades for excellence in Visionary Governance® across critical areas of planetary importance, including peaceful relations, humanitarian efforts, health, economic development, science, culture, and sustainability. Awarded to global heads of state, international organisations, scientists, artists, business pioneers, and civil society activists, the Gold Mercury Award honours those who have shaped history across diverse fields. Past award recipients include U.S. Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford for their diplomatic efforts on nuclear disarmament, President Anwar Sadat of Egypt, Prof. Robert Gallo for discovering the HIV virus as the cause of AIDS, and humanitarian organisations like UNICEF and the Red Cross.