Dalai Lama Accused Of Sexism After Saying Successor Could Be Female But Must Be 'Very Attractive'

The Dalai Lama has prompted outrage after saying that his successor could be a woman - but that she must be “very attractive” or else she would be “not much use”.

Speaking to BBC journalist Clive Myrie, the spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism was asked about the possibility of a female Dalai Lama

He replied: “Yes, the female biologically [has] more potential to show affection...and compassion.

He continued: “Today in a more troubled world, I think females should take more important roles, and then I told that reporter, if a female Dalai Lama comes, their face should be very attractive.”

The Dalai Lama surprised many with his comments about a female Dalai Lama

Myrie laughed at what he understandably thought had been a joke, asking: “So you can only have a female Dalai Lama if they’re attractive? Is that what you’re saying?”

The monk replied: “I mean if female Dalai Lama come, then that female must be very attractive, otherwise not much use.”

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Myrie gave it one more try: “You’re joking, I’m assuming? Or you’re not joking?”

The reply? “No, true!”

His comments are particularly surprising given that he has in the past labelled himself a feminist.

Many people expressed their outrage at his comments…

Others were less surprised however…