The Dalai Lama declares that there will be a successor following his passing.

The Dalai Lama, revered Tibetan spiritual leader, recently confirmed that the time-honored tradition of the Dalai Lama lineage will persist even after his passing. His statement comes amid concerns among many Tibetans that the Chinese government might attempt to select his successor, thereby exerting further control over the region, which has been under its military presence since 1950. These comments by the Dalai Lama, who celebrates his 90th birthday this weekend, serve as a reassurance to those who value the cultural and religious autonomy of Tibet.

Source: https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20250702-the-dalai-lama-says-the-tibetan-buddhist-institution-will-prevail-after-his-death