Poverty Alleviation in Tibet

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Poverty Alleviation in Tibet

Photographer: Roman Pilipey

 

The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.

The unstoppable advance of modernity and Chinese construction projects among the Himalayan snow-covered peaks mean it is now possible to travel distances in a matter of just a few hours that not long ago would have taken days to cover. You might even come across a shepherd tending his flock at 4,000 meters engrossed in a 5G-ready smartphone.

According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty – an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people – has been eradicated.

In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.

Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas.

628,000 Tibetans have been lifted out of poverty, and 266,000 of them have been relocated "voluntarily", according to Wu Yingjie, secretary-general of the party in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet told reporters during a government-guided tour of the region, the only way foreign journalists are permitted to visit. The enormous red signs along all the highways and in cities bearing messages thanking people for their support of the Communist Party and calling for unity were unheard of just two years ago in this remote enclave.

Desertification is also advancing: real sand dunes are increasingly appearing on mountains and in rivers due to climate change. So is the predominance of Mandarin Chinese in classrooms and on the streets. According to data from the 2010 Chinese official census, 90.48 percent were ethnic Tibetans, 8.17 percent Han Chinese - the majority in China - and the rest of the 40 ethnic minorities that populate the region. Tibetan ethnic numbers have been decreasing in recent decades - 95.5 percent in 1990 and 92.8 percent in 2000 - while that of the Han ethnic group has kept growing - 3.4 percent in 1990 and 5 percent in 2000 - and it is estimated that currently, it may already be above 10 percent.

A Tibetan woman looks out a window at a house in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment

A Tibetan woman looks out a window at a house in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A boy stands next to a house in Jangdam village, Samzhubze district, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have repla

A boy stands next to a house in Jangdam village, Samzhubze district, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Portraits of current Chinese President Xi Jinping and other former Chinese leaders hang on a wall in a house of a Tibetan family in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are

Portraits of current Chinese President Xi Jinping and other former Chinese leaders hang on a wall in a house of a Tibetan family in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Journalists visit a Tibetan family in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have

 

Journalists visit a Tibetan family in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A Tibetan girl rest at a house in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have rep

A Tibetan girl rest at a house in Jangdam village, Samzhubze District, outside Shigatse, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A Tibetan man who was relocated from a high-altitude area speaks to journalists at his house in Boma village, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartme

A Tibetan man who was relocated from a high-altitude area speaks to journalists at his house in Boma village, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Men play billiard in a village built for relocated Tibetan people from high-altitude areas in Gong Ga County, Lhoka city, near Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 14 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, high

Men play billiard in a village built for relocated Tibetan people from high-altitude areas in Gong Ga County, Lhoka city, near Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 14 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Officials conduct a demographic census in Boma village, where relocated Tibetan people from high-altitude areas live, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern

Officials conduct a demographic census in Boma village, where relocated Tibetan people from high-altitude areas live, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A child sits in front of houses in Caiqutang village built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and

A child sits in front of houses in Caiqutang village built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Workers work in Caiqutang village that was built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern ap

 

Workers work in Caiqutang village that was built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Women with children ride on a vehicle in Caiqutang village built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highway

Women with children ride on a vehicle in Caiqutang village built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

People stand in front of houses in Caiqutang village built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and

 

People stand in front of houses in Caiqutang village built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A boy rides a bicycle in Caiqutang village that was built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and

A boy rides a bicycle in Caiqutang village that was built for people relocated from high-altitude areas, in Damxung county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Children play in a kindergarten in a village built for relocated Tibetan people from high-altitude areas in Gong Ga County, Lhoka city, near Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 14 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bu

Children play in a kindergarten in a village built for relocated Tibetan people from high-altitude areas in Gong Ga County, Lhoka city, near Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 14 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Students listen to a teacher during a class in a school at Doilungdeqen district, near Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have r

Students listen to a teacher during a class in a school at Doilungdeqen district, near Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Tibetan people make a pilgrimage around the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 15 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks

Tibetan people make a pilgrimage around the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 15 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A bride poses for her pre-wedding photos at the square in front of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 15 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have

A bride poses for her pre-wedding photos at the square in front of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 15 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

People visit a Tibetan shop near the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the

People visit a Tibetan shop near the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A worker checks a road camera in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 14 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist mon

 

A worker checks a road camera in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 14 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A view of construction sites in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monk

A view of construction sites in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A woman walks in her shop in an alley near the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing ya

 

A woman walks in her shop in an alley near the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A general view of Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 15 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks. According t

A general view of Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 15 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A man works on a sewing machine in a shop near the Jokhang Temple, in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazi

A man works on a sewing machine in a shop near the Jokhang Temple, in Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 16 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A man wearing a protective face mask works at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and moder

A man wearing a protective face mask works at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

An employee wearing a protective face mask collects mushrooms at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers,

An employee wearing a protective face mask collects mushrooms at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

An employee wearing a protective face mask works at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and

An employee wearing a protective face mask works at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

Employees wearing protective face masks peel mushrooms at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highway

 

Employees wearing protective face masks peel mushrooms at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

An employee wearing a protective face mask cleans at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, an

 

An employee wearing a protective face mask cleans at the fungi farm of the Everest Agricultural Investment Fund, in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A Tibetan Buddhist woman prays at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing

A Tibetan Buddhist woman prays at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A Tibetan Buddhist woman prays at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing

A Tibetan Buddhist woman prays at Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A young Tibetan monk walks on a territory of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced

A young Tibetan monk walks on a territory of Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse city, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A view of dry land near Shigatse city, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist m

A view of dry land near Shigatse city, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 17 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A general view of Yamdrok Lake, also known as Yamzho Yumco, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and th

 

A general view of Yamdrok Lake, also known as Yamzho Yumco, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A herdsman walks in Gyangze county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.

 

A herdsman walks in Gyangze county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A view of a settlement next to the mountains, not far from Yamdrok Lake also known as Yamzho Yumco, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towe

A view of a settlement next to the mountains, not far from Yamdrok Lake also known as Yamzho Yumco, in Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A yak lays on the ground near the Noijin Kangsang mountain in Gyangze county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the graz

A yak lays on the ground near the Noijin Kangsang mountain in Gyangze county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 18 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY

A man wearing a protective face mask walks in Jieba village, Gongbo'gyamda county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 19 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region. The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the

A man wearing a protective face mask walks in Jieba village, Gongbo'gyamda county, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, 19 October 2020. The picture was taken during a media tour to Tibet organized by the Chinese government that focused on China's poverty alleviation program for the region.
The natural beauty of Tibet, the thousand-year-old Himalayan roof of the world, still dazzles the few visitors who are allowed in. But today, in many places, bulldozers, highways, and modern apartment towers have replaced the grazing yaks and the chanting Buddhist monks.
According to the Beijing government, extreme poverty - an endemic problem in Tibet, where pastoralism has traditionally been the sole source of income for most people - has been eradicated.
In recent years, the central government has made colossal investments in Tibet, both in infrastructure and poverty reduction programs.
Since 2016, Beijing has invested 74.85 billion yuan (USD 11.1 billion) in projects to improve access to health, education, clean water, housing, or infrastructure in the region's poorest areas. EPA-EFE/ROMAN PILIPEY