His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is both the head of state and the spiritual leader of Tibet. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a man of peace. In 1989 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his non-violent struggle for the liberation of Tibet. He has consistently advocated policies of non-violence, even in the face of extreme aggression. He also became the first Nobel Laureate to be recognized for his concern for global environmental problems.

As a messanger of peace, non-violence, inter-religious understanding, universal responsibility and compassion, the Dalai Lama has also authored more than 72 books.

His Holiness describes himself as ?a simple Buddhist monk?.