Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Bhutan
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Bhutan:
Story
22 October 2024
Co-Designing an Inclusive Campaign for 16 Days of Activism
The United Nations in Bhutan organized a three-day workshop aimed at enhancing Bhutan’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign. Led by the UN Communications Group (UNCG), with technical support by UN Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the Journalists’ Association of Bhutan (JAB), the workshop brought together key voices from the media, social media influencers, and the LGBTIQ community to co-design an inclusive, impactful campaign that addresses the realities of all Bhutanese—especially the most vulnerable.The 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign that runs annually from November 25, starting with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and concluding on December 10 with Human Rights Day, seeks to raise awareness and inspire action to end violence against women and girls. In Bhutan, past campaigns have had significant impacts, however, recognizing the need for more inclusivity, diversity, and wider reach, this workshop was held to address these gaps and design a stronger, more representative campaign for 2024. Speaking at the opening of the workshop, the Head of Office, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office of the UN in Bhutan, Timothy Wilson, emphasized three approaches while designing the campaign: “Rise, Think, and Smile”. He stressed that there is a need to draw attention to the prevalence of violence, its impacts, and the importance of advocacy for change.“This year’s campaign is about making sure that every voice is heard—whether it is from the mainstream media, social media influencers, the LGBTIQ community, or marginalized groups that face unique challenges,” said Timothy Wilson. “By working together, we can ensure that the 16 Days of Activism speaks to all Bhutanese people and mobilizes the widest possible support.”The workshop was attended by 55 participants, including the members of the UNCG. Phuntsho Wangyel, Head of UNFPA’s Office, emphasized the organization's commitment to seeking collaboration and partnerships with the media. “I’m here because I passionately believe in rights and choices, and we at UNFPA recognize the vital role individuals play as agents of change capable of transforming societies today,” he stated. “We cannot achieve this alone; we need your support, the media. The way we consume news and information has evolved, and so has the speed of that consumption. Therefore, engaging with you is crucial.” UNFPA led sessions on ethical reporting of GBV and child protection, highlighting legal frameworks and responsible use of data from the Bhutan Prevalence Survey and NHS 2023. Discussions covered ethical representation of GBV, Bhutan’s declining fertility rates, aging population trends, and the need for comprehensive SRHR services. The NHS 2023 revealed that 44% of women aged 15-49 still view violence as normal, reflecting deep-rooted societal attitudes. Media professionals, social media influencers, the LGBTIQ community, civil society, and government agencies shared insights on addressing GBV and engaging diverse populations. On the final day of the workshop, participants collaborated in breakout groups to design tailored media campaigns for print, broadcast, and social media, each aimed at resonating with specific target audiences. The print media group developed story ideas featuring interviews with GBV survivors, local data, and expert opinions. The broadcast media team created scripts for public service announcements and planned radio talk shows and TV panel discussions. Social media influencers designed a content calendar featuring memes, TikTok challenges, and Instagram Lives to engage younger audiences with inclusive messaging. The workshop concluded with participants presenting their campaign ideas, which will be integrated into a unified action plan for Bhutan's 16 Days of Activism, launching on November 25, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This collaborative initiative marks a crucial step in shaping the 16 Days of Activism campaign into a more inclusive and powerful movement in 2024. By engaging Bhutanese across all sectors, from journalists to influencers and policymaker, the campaign seeks to amplify the voices of marginalized groups and ensure their stories are heard. Through this collaborative effort, the campaign aspires to drive lasting change and contribute to ending gender-based violence in Bhutan.
1 of 5
Publication
17 September 2024
UNSDCF 2024-2028
The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF or Cooperation Framework) will
guide the work of the United Nations (UN) system in Bhutan through 2028. This Cooperation Framework is
underpinned by the principle of Leaving No One Behind as the country makes progress on all three pillars of
sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. Leaving No One Behind includes a steadfast
commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities. The collective results expected from the Cooperation
Framework will contribute to a vision wherein all people in Bhutan, especially the most vulnerable, contribute to and
benefit from sustainable development, leading to the achievement of the SDGs and to a healthy, prosperous and
secured country.
The Strategic Priorities and Outcomes contained in this Cooperation Framework, which have been developed jointly
by the Government and the UN, will remain constant for the duration of the implementation cycle. At the same time,
the Cooperation Framework has a flexible, adaptive approach that allows for regular adjustments through outputs
and joint work plans through which the United Nations contributions are operationalized in line with evolving
national priorities.
guide the work of the United Nations (UN) system in Bhutan through 2028. This Cooperation Framework is
underpinned by the principle of Leaving No One Behind as the country makes progress on all three pillars of
sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. Leaving No One Behind includes a steadfast
commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities. The collective results expected from the Cooperation
Framework will contribute to a vision wherein all people in Bhutan, especially the most vulnerable, contribute to and
benefit from sustainable development, leading to the achievement of the SDGs and to a healthy, prosperous and
secured country.
The Strategic Priorities and Outcomes contained in this Cooperation Framework, which have been developed jointly
by the Government and the UN, will remain constant for the duration of the implementation cycle. At the same time,
the Cooperation Framework has a flexible, adaptive approach that allows for regular adjustments through outputs
and joint work plans through which the United Nations contributions are operationalized in line with evolving
national priorities.
1 of 5
Publication
11 April 2024
Country Results Report 2023
The United Nations in Bhutan is pleased to announce the launch of the Country Results Report for 2023. This comprehensive report showcases the impactful collaborations and achievements made in support of Bhutan's development priorities, as well as outlines future plans for continued progress.In 2023, the United Nations supported the country with US$ 35.57million, of which, the total resources utilized was US$ 21.9 million (62%).The United Nations support was centered around enhancing data management and governance for inclusive development, with notable achievements including the establishment of the Bhutan Statistical Database System (BSDS). This unified platform facilitates evidence-based decision-making by providing easy access to sector data, thereby bolstering the nation's preparedness for disasters through improved disaster management systems and emergency coordination.Additionally, the United Nations supported initiatives aimed at ensuring equitable access to quality social services for vulnerable populations, addressing areas such as child protection, education, health, and nutrition. Partnerships were a key focus of UN efforts in Bhutan, with initiatives like Football for the Goals leveraging the popularity of football to drive positive social change and promote sustainable development. Looking ahead to 2024, the United Nations in Bhutan is committed to furthering its support for the country's sustainable development efforts. Key priorities include facilitating the transition from least developed country status, advancing the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) to promote inclusivity, empowerment, and human rights, and providing tailored assistance to effectively manage the LDC graduation process.The United Nations will continue to support the Royal Government, the country, and people of Bhutan in its commitment to collaboration, innovation, and impact, to achieve shared development goals and priorities.
1 of 5
Story
30 June 2024
World Struggles to Meet Sustainable Development Goals, Warns New UN Report
With only 17% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets on track, a new UN report reveals that the world is far from achieving the SDGs- the blueprint for a more resilient and prosperous future. The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024, launched today, calls for massive investment and scaled-up action to prevent these goals from remaining out of reach.A World in Great UpheavalThe report highlights the significant setbacks in progress due to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and climate chaos. Key findings include:Extreme Poverty and Hunger: 23 million additional people were pushed into extreme poverty, and over 100 million more suffered from hunger in 2022 compared to 2019.Conflict and Climate Impact: Civilian deaths in armed conflict increased dramatically in 2023, a year that also recorded the highest global temperatures, nearing the critical 1.5°C threshold. A Moment of Choice and ConsequenceUN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgent need for stronger international cooperation: “With more than six years left, we must not let up on our 2030 promise to end poverty, protect the planet, and leave no one behind.”Urgent Priorities IdentifiedFinancing Development: The SDG investment gap in developing countries stands at $4 trillion per year. Reforming the global financial architecture is crucial.Peace and Security: With nearly 120 million forcibly displaced people and civilian casualties up 72% between 2022 and 2023, resolving conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy is essential.Implementation Surge: Massive investment and effective partnerships are needed for critical transitions in food, energy, social protection, and digital connectivity.Success Stories and Opportunities for ActionDespite the challenges, the report spotlights areas of progress:Renewable Energy: Remarkable strides in deploying renewable energy highlight a clear pathway to a just energy transition.Education: Girls in most regions have achieved parity or surpassed boys in completing schooling at all levels.Internet Access: Increased internet access by 70% in just eight years shows rapid transformative change is possible.Health: Decades of progress against HIV/AIDS offer a template for overcoming other pandemics through global solidarity and funding for scientific breakthroughs.“Time and again, humanity has demonstrated that when we work together and apply our collective mind, we can forge solutions to seemingly intractable problems,” said Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs.Key Moments for the SDGsThe upcoming Summit of the Future, scheduled for 22-23 September at UN Headquarters in New York, will be pivotal in realigning global efforts towards achieving the SDGs. Key issues to be addressed include the debt crisis and the need for international financial reform.Looking ahead, the Financing for Development Conference and the World Summit for Social Development in 2025 will be crucial for maintaining SDG momentum. Li Junhua stressed, “The time for words has passed – political declarations must urgently translate into actions. We must act now, and act boldly.”Key Findings:For the first time this century, per-capita GDP growth in half of the world’s most vulnerable nations is slower than that of advanced economies.Nearly 60% of countries faced moderately to abnormally high food prices in 2022.Over 55% of countries lacked non-discrimination laws against women in 2022.Increased access to treatment has averted 20.8 million AIDS-related deaths over three decades.Only 58% of students worldwide achieve minimum proficiency in reading by the end of primary school.Global unemployment hit a historic low of 5% in 2023, yet challenges in achieving decent work persist.Renewable energy capacity has been growing at an unprecedented annual rate of 8.1% for the past five years.Mobile broadband (3G or higher) is accessible to 95% of the world's population, up from 78% in 2015.Record high ocean temperatures have triggered a fourth global coral bleaching event.About 60% of low-income countries are at high risk of debt distress or already experiencing it.For more information, please visit: The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024#SDGreport #SDGs #GlobalGoalsMedia Contacts:Sharon Birch, UN Department of Global Communications, birchs@un.orgHelen Rosengren, UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, rosengrenh@un.org
1 of 5
Video
28 June 2024
We the Women- Bhutan Chapter
Gender inequality remains a global challenge, impacting women and girls everywhere. It's time to change that!Introducing the "We the Women" campaign by the UN under #WomenRiseForAll, led by the Deputy Secretary-General. This powerful initiative amplifies women's voices, mobilizes action for gender equality, and invites YOU to join the movement.As we gear up for the Summit of the Future in September, Bhutan joined the world in creating a new narrative together with Bhutanese women- to share their thoughts, dreams, and aspirations.Launched in 2023, "We the Women" is about shaping global solutions and driving change. Ready to make a difference? Watch our video and follow our staff member Tshering Palden’s journey into Bhutan to join women from all walks of life- bringing them to join the global conversation.#WeTheWomen #GenderEquality #UN #WomenRise #SummitOfTheFuture
1 of 5
Story
26 September 2024
Building an Inclusive Bhutan
The United Nations in Bhutan held a consultation with persons with disabilities, reaffirming its commitment to leaving no one behind under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.Mr. Mohammad Younas, UN Resident Coordinator a.i., opened the consultation by underscoring the importance of inclusion in Bhutan’s pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals. This was followed by a presentation from the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, which shared key insights from the draft Common Country Analysis.Representatives from local disability organizations, the Royal Government of Bhutan, the private sector, and the UN’s Gender, Disability Inclusion, and Human Rights Working Group took part in discussions on critical issues. One of the primary sessions addressed the challenges faced by persons with disabilities during emergencies, highlighting lessons from Bhutan’s experiences with natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. The session, moderated by the UN Resident Coordinator’s team leader, focused on ensuring future emergency responses are disability-inclusive. Participants also shared personal stories, emphasizing the need for stronger implementation of existing policies. In Bhutan, persons with disabilities face barriers in economic, social, and political life, including discrimination, stigma, and unconscious bias. The consultation underscored the urgent need to address these issues.The United Nations remains committed to supporting concrete actions to overcome challenges facing persons with disabilities. In addition to Bhutan’s ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), the country has developed a National Policy for Persons with Disabilities and an Action Plan for its implementation. This consultation placed the voices and experiences of persons with disabilities at the forefront of these efforts, ensuring their rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled.As Bhutan continues its journey towards inclusivity, consultations like this one serve as a vital platform for collaboration, empowerment, and progress—laying the foundation for a future where no one is left behind.
1 of 5
Story
10 July 2024
Transforming Education: UN Country Teams Leading the Charge
While the Summit brought much-needed attention to the issue, significant challenges remain. Two years on, many countries are still far from achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) target of universal access to quality education.In response, the Secretary-General is convening a Special Event on Transforming Education on 11 July 2024, in collaboration with the President of the UN General Assembly and the President of the UN Economic and Social Council—to push for greater commitment and action to transform education as a catalyst for achieving the SDGs. Across the globe, we witness the transformative power of education. The UN is firmly committed to ensuring everyone, regardless of background, gender and economic status, has access to quality learning opportunities. UN Country Teams, led by Resident Coordinators, play a critical role in supporting Governments in different social and economic contexts in driving progress through policy shifts, more and better investments, and innovative solutions, recognizing that education is not just a goal in itself, but a catalyst for achieving other development transformations. Bosnia and Herzegovina: Unifying Education for a System’s ReformBosnia and Herzegovina's education system has grappled with deep-rooted, systemic challenges for decades. A highly decentralized structure has led to fragmented policies and efforts, compounded by outdated infrastructure, declining student enrolment, and below-average proficiency levels among students. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, disrupting the education of over 400,000 students and highlighting the need for urgent reform. Recognizing the opportunity for change, UN agencies, led by the Resident Coordinator and with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) at the forefront, prioritized education as a focus of their COVID-19 recovery efforts. The joint programme 'Reimagine Education for Marginalized Boys and Girls’ provided training to teachers and trainerson digital learning in primary and secondary schools including in technical and vocational education and training. The programme also equipped schools with digital devices and strengthened collaboration and coherence between education authorities and other stakeholders. The enhanced collaboration between education authorities, coupled with the resources and training provided by the UN, led to the development of a common country-wide policy position and roadmap on education, the first in twenty years. This roadmap, endorsed by all 16 Ministers responsible for education, outlines a comprehensive plan for transforming the education sector and demonstrates the transformative power of improved collaboration and UN coordination. The UN remains dedicated to supporting the implementation of these policy reforms, with a vision of a more inclusive, high-quality, and relevant education for all students. With the support of the European Union, the UN team is assisting education authorities in developing action plans for a transformation of the education system that will accelerate progress towards both the SDGs and the country’s EU accession path.Bhutan: Embracing Digital Transformation for a Sustainable FutureBhutan's rapid digital transformation is not merely about connectivity; it's about leveraging technology to drive sustainable development and empower educators. With internet connectivity now in every school and 87 per cent of the population online, exceeding the global average, Bhutan is well-positioned to harness the power of the digital transformation in education. The UN team in Bhutan, under the Resident Coordinator's leadership, is playing a pivotal role in guiding this progress.The UN is actively supporting Bhutan's digitalization in education initiatives aligned with the country's National Digital Strategy and 13th Five Year Development Plan. These initiatives empower young people with digital skills through programmes like UNICEF’s ‘UPSHIFT’, a global innovation programme that builds transferable skills for adolescents and young people. These skills are being developed and put to use in innovative ways, such as developing tools to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, a crucial issue for Bhutan's rural communities. Moreover, the increased accessibility of digital education is encouraging more girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, promoting gender equality and fostering a new generation of innovators.The UN's partnership with organizations like the public agency GovTech is also instrumental in advancing digital transformation, such as expanding online learning, strengthening data security and privacy, and securing intellectual property rights. This comprehensive approach is contributing to Bhutan's ambitious goal of achieving high-income country status by 2034, demonstrating that strides in the digital sphere is not just about economic growth but also about social progress on many fronts including education. Pursuing Bhutan’s commitment at the 2022 Transforming Education Summit, the UN will also continue to support the Ministry of Education and Skill Development to reinforce teachers’ professional skills and competencies in line with recognized standards for educators to deliver 21st century knowledge and skills. Rwanda: Investing in Foundational Learning to Drive Economic GrowthIn Rwanda, education is regarded as the cornerstone of the nation's development aspirations. The Government, in collaboration with the UN, is making substantial investments in education, focusing on foundational learning and empowering children to become active and productive members of society. Key initiatives include connecting all schools to the internet by 2024 and providing comprehensive e-learning training for teachers, ensuring that Rwanda's education system is prepared for the digital age. Additionally, there is a robust emphasis on promoting girls' participation in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics fields to advance gender equality in education.Despite these ambitious goals, Rwanda faces systemic challenges that hinder progress. These include capacity gaps among teachers, infrastructure limitations, and the need for sufficient teaching and learning materials. The Government remains committed to addressing these issues by leveraging internationally-recognised and locally-developed assessment policy frameworks and tools. These tools support comprehensive assessments to enhance learning outcomes. Rwanda's strategy for policy transformation addresses foundational learning needs from early childhood through primary education. This includes improving instruction quality, implementing a competence-based curriculum, providing high-impact materials, and mobilizing community support. By prioritizing these areas, Rwanda aims to establish a strong educational foundation for sustainable development that empowers children and young people to thrive in a competitive, knowledge-based economy.The UN is crucial in bolstering these efforts. By providing technical assistance, resources, and expertise, the UN aids the Government in building a robust and inclusive education system that aligns with the nation's development goals. The collaboration between the UN and the Government is instrumental in driving forward initiatives that aim to improve educational quality and accessibility, ultimately contributing to Rwanda's aspiration of becoming a middle-income country by 2050. Trinidad and Tobago: Ensuring a Modern Education for All Trinidad and Tobago is on a path towards educational transformation, recognizing the need to modernize its education system to meet the demands of the 21st century. The Government, in dynamic partnership with the UN, is prioritizing digitalization and sustainability in education, committing to leave no child behind.With UN support, the Ministry of Education is equipping schools with digital devices and developing online content to enhance the quality of education and prepare students for the future job market. Significant progress is being made to improve access for marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities, refugees, and migrants. UN agencies are working together to ensure the voices of persons with disabilities are heard in policymaking, proposing changes to both the Education Act and the Equal Opportunities Act.Throughout 2023, strategic UN initiatives also complemented the Government’s efforts to integrate refugee and migrant children into the public education system. These initiatives include supporting access to primary and secondary online learning platforms, providing cash grants to cover educational expenses, and offering innovative educational alternatives. The UN system also collaborated with the Ministry of Labour to address child labour, ensuring children’s development and education are not impeded. There is also a focus on sustainability with the promotion of green schools and the use of renewable energy sources. However, maintaining the digital infrastructure and ensuring that teachers are adequately trained to utilize online resources are ongoing concerns. Additionally, efforts to integrate them and address the specific needs of the influx of migrant children from neighbouring countries has put a strain on the education system.Despite these challenges, Trinidad and Tobago's commitment to educational reform is clear. The Government's focus on digitalization, sustainability, and inclusivity reflects a holistic approach to transforming education, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. Arab States: Partnering for Transformative EducationCountries in the Arab Gulf are experiencing rapid growth and progress, but their education systems need to adapt to prepare citizens for the demands of the times. This requires innovative approaches, best practices in teaching and learning, and the integration of new technology. Recognizing this need, UNESCO is actively engaged in promoting Transformative Education across the Arab region, focusing on equipping young minds with the tools, values, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to drive positive change and foster just, inclusive, and sustainable societies.UNESCO is working with higher education institutions across the Arab States to develop and implement university courses on Transformative Education for pre-service teacher training. This initiative aims to institutionalize Transformative Education within the fabric of education, ensuring that future generations of teachers are equipped to empower their students for the challenges of the future.Furthermore, UNESCO has facilitated the creation of a network of universities across the Arab and European regions to advance Transformative Education collaboratively. This network, which includes Saint-Joseph University in Lebanon, Institut Supérieur des Cadres de l’Enfance in Tunisia, Sultan Qaboos University in Oman, and the UNESCO Chair in Global Citizenship Education in Higher Education at the University of Bologna, Italy, is developing a joint action plan and seeking to establish a ‘UNITWIN’ university network. The launch of the UNESCO publication "Including Transformative Education into Pre-Service Teacher Training: A Guide for Universities and Teacher Training Institutions in the Arab Region" is another significant step in this direction. This resource provides faculty deans and academia with practical guidance on incorporating transformative courses into pre-service teacher training programmes.Through these initiatives, UNESCO is playing a crucial role in transforming education in the Arab region, ensuring that learners are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive and contribute to the sustainable development of their societies.
1 of 5
Story
02 July 2024
High-Level visit further strengthens UN-Bhutan ties
The United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Ms. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana visited Bhutan from 30 June to 2 July. Her visit reinforced the commitment of the United Nations, and ESCAP in particular, to supporting Bhutan's development goals and promoting sustainable, inclusive growth.Ms. Alisjahbana also met with the Prime Minister, Dasho Lyonchen Tshering Tobgay, the Minister for Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade and Minister of Finance. Ms. Alisjahbana expressed her appreciation to the Royal Government of Bhutan for their active engagement with ESCAP and congratulated Bhutan on its graduation from LDC category. She recommitted ESCAP’s continued support to the strategic priorities outlined in the 13th Five Year Plan that retains its sustainable development philosophy of balancing Bhutan’s natural and social-cultural heritage with modernization. While in the country, Ms. Alisjahbana took the opportunity to meet women entrepreneurs who had been trained by ESCAP. They discussed the critical role of women's empowerment in Bhutan's socio-economic growth. These interactions were designed to support and inspire the next generation of female leaders in the country.ESCAP has provided support on SDG financing, including through the use of sustainability bonds, FDI and trade facilitation, disaster risk resilience and energy transition. In recent years, ESCAP also supported Bhutan’s digital economy strategy formulation and women’s e-commerce training. In the coming months, ESCAP will co-organize with the Royal Government of Bhutan, a multi-stakeholder workshop on trade and transport cross-border connectivity, inviting government and private sector stakeholders from Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal and India and development partners to promote subregional cooperation to foster inclusive trade and value chains benefiting medium/small enterprises and communities.Ms. Alisjahbana underscored that her trip to Bhutan, and the partnership between Bhutan and the UN for the past 50 years, is a testament to what can be achieved when the partnership is built on trust and mutual understanding towards a common goal. "I leave Bhutan inspired by the dedication and spirit of its people and more committed than ever to our shared vision of a better world for all,” said Ms. Alisjahbana.
1 of 5
Story
13 May 2024
Honoring the Fourth Estate: A Tribute to Independent Media
On 3 May, Bhutan observed the World Press Freedom Day to celebrate the role of media in fostering democracy, transparency, and sustainable development. The Annual Journalism Awards Ceremony took center stage, honoring outstanding contributions by journalists and media organizations across various categories. From investigative journalism to feature writing, to climate change coverage, these awards motivate journalists to uphold press freedom and serve the public interest. The ceremony serves as a testament to Bhutan's commitment to fostering a free and independent press.In addition to recognizing journalistic excellence, the event witnessed the launch of a Joint Advocacy Campaign on disability inclusion. This cross-sector campaign mobilizes stakeholders from government, civil society, and the media to advocate for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in mainstream media.A special feature of this year's celebration involved engaging Bhutan's creative industry and social media influencers to amplify the messages and work of the mainstream media. Recognizing the influential role of creatives and social media personalities, this initiative leverages their platforms and reach to raise awareness about press freedom and the importance of independent journalism. This collaboration between traditional media and newer forms of digital communication strengthens the fabric of Bhutan's media landscape.As Bhutan emphasizes journalism's vital role in democracy, transparency, and sustainable development, the World Press Freedom Day serves as a platform to assess press freedom, strengthen partnerships, and raise awareness about journalists' challenges. The event reaffirms Bhutan's commitment to upholding the principles of press freedom and promoting professional journalism.Through these initiatives, Bhutan aims to foster a media environment where journalists can work freely and without fear, contributing to a more informed, just, and democratic society.
1 of 5
Story
14 February 2024
A Journey of Inspiration: UNCT’s Visit to Gelephu Mindfulness City
In the Southern foothills of Bhutan, emerald-green forests cascade down the valley of areca trees and paddy fields leading to the site for the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City—a sanctuary of tranquility and introspection.
At the invitation of His Majesty the King of Bhutan, the Resident Coordinator, Karla Robin Hershey, led the United Nations Country team to visit Gelephu and see the work underway to fulfil the vision of the Mindfulness City as an embodiment of Bhutan's enduring commitment to sustainability and prosperity.
“It was a journey of exploration and insight,” said Karla Hershey. “We were able to witness the unfolding of a groundbreaking initiative that holds the promise of reshaping Bhutan's economic landscape and fostering sustainable growth for generations to come.”
During the 116th National Day of Bhutan, on 17 December 2023, the King of Bhutan announced the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative with the objective of benefiting Bhutanese 500 years into the future. The Gelephu Mindfulness City is expected to stand apart from other special economic zones by prioritizing businesses that respect Bhutanese values, including mindfulness, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the nation’s sovereignty and well-being. The City Masterplan aims to seamlessly integrate Bhutanese culture into every aspect of the city's design – from the protection of farmlands and wildlife sanctuaries to the incorporation of ancient farming methods and modern AgroSciences. The goal is to achieve a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
The UN Country Team engaged in meaningful discussions and exchanged ideas on how the United Nations could further support Bhutan.
1 of 5
Press Release
10 February 2021
We stand firm in our efforts to uphold and implement the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, says Bhutan's Minister of Foreign Affairs
Thimphu, November 20, 2020: To celebrate the World Children’s Day and to mark 30 years of Bhutan signing and ratifying the Convention on the Rights of the Child, His Holiness the Je Khenpo today issued a decree calling on all to ensure the wellbeing of the children for all times to come.
“Bhutan’s efforts towards children’s wellbeing and happiness is commendable. I urge all to continue the efforts and work together to build a society fit for our children, one that cares for the happiness and best interests of our children at all times,” the decree states.
To celebrate the day, the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC) in partnership with the Dratshang Lhentshog Secretariat, the Ministry of Education and UNICEF Bhutan organized a dialogue between the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Chairperson of the NCWC Dr Tandi Dorji and children on issues concerning children especially during the pandemic.
During the dialogue, Lyonpo interacted and responded to questions from children on education, health and child protection issues. The dialogue will be aired on BBS 1 after the 9 PM news and on BBS 2 from 8.30PM today.
World Children’s Day, Lyonpo said, is not only a time to celebrate but also to remind all, especially decision and policy makers on the commitments they have made, to abide by them and for children to demand action as many are doing the world over.
“Despite the good work undertaken by the Government and many civil society groups, there is still much to be done to ensure the rights of our children and to enable them to fully participate in the society,” Lyonpo said. “As a small Least Developed Country, Bhutan continues to face a number of constraints in terms of resources, capacity and infrastructure. There are many competing priorities of the Government especially during this pandemic with limited resources and disruptions in our economy. However, Bhutan stands firm in its efforts to uphold and implement the principles and provisions of this convention.”
“Today as we join many other countries in the world to advocate for all children, let us particularly commit and remember those who are not heard, for the children who are in need of special care and protection, for the children who need us every day to thrive and those most vulnerable. Let us work hard, diligently and hope for a brighter and better future, especially for our children in the post COVID era,” Lyonpo said.
To mark signing of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, November 20 is celebrated globally as World Children’s Day. This year is extra special for Bhutan as the nation celebrates 30 years of signing and ratifying the Convention. Bhutan was among the first countries to sign the Convention on June 4, 1990 and ratify it on August 1 the same year.
Amongst the most important achievements after Bhutan ratified the Convention are the drafting of the National Child Policy, the National Action Plan for Child Wellbeing and Protection 2020 and the strengthening of the protection system through development of critical Standard Operating Procedures, guidelines and manuals related to case management, adoptions and alternative care.
The establishment of the Woman and Child Toll Free Helpline 1098 and the Central Management System were key initiatives enabling timely and effective services and a systematic approach for the collection of data. The institutional mechanism was further enhanced through setting up of the Dzongkhag and Thromde Women and Children Committees and the Women and Children Welfare Committees at the national level.
UNICEF Bhutan Representative Dr Will Parks said that the World Children’s Day this year is taking place during one of the most challenging times.
“The coronavirus pandemic has laid bare the deep inequalities in our societies and impacted all of us, especially children,” Dr Will Parks said. “UNICEF Bhutan remains committed to support the efforts of the Royal Government of Bhutan to reimagine a more equal, just and sustainable society for our children.”
As the occasion also coincides with the World Day of Prayer and Action for Children, a thousand butter lamps were lit at the Kuenray of the Trashichhodzong and prayers recited.
1 of 2
Press Release
27 October 2020
United Nations announces funds to fight COVID-19 and “Build Back Better”
On behalf of the United Nations (UN) in Bhutan, the Resident Coordinator, Gerald Daly, during his meeting with Foreign Minister Lyonpo (Dr) Tandi Dorji, committed USD 1.17 million to support the Royal Government of Bhutan in addressing issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A part of the commitment comes from the Secretary General’s UN COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, with the aim to support responses to COVID-19 and part of it is from the Joint Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Fund, which will fund activities to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs.
The UN Resident Coordinator said the funds will not only protect people from the spread of the virus but will also help to prevent harm to the most vulnerable over the longer-term and ensure that Bhutan can “Build Back Better”.
The programme financed by the Secretary General’s UN COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund supports education continuity and those whose livelihoods in the tourism and agriculture sectors are at risk. The Joint SDG Fund will support the Royal Government to create strategies to increase and make effective use of investments to manage the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, respond to climate change threats, and advance Bhutan’s ambitious sustainable development agenda.
The donor countries for the Secretary-General’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund are Switzerland, The Netherlands, Norway and Denmark who also contributed to the Joint SDG Fund.
“Lyonpo (Dr) Tandi Dorji thanked the UN in Bhutan for an additional commitment of US$ 1.17 million to the Royal Government to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic which has affected the world over. It is during times like these that the important role of the United Nations becomes more apparent and much needed. Only through the spirit of global partnership and cooperation, which defines the United Nations, will the world be able to overcome the challenges of COVID-19”.
1 of 2
Latest Resources
1 / 11
1 / 11