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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:
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.
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Publication
14 April 2023
2022 UN COUNTRY ANNUAL RESULTS REPORT BHUTAN
The #UnitedNations is #Bhutan is pleased to launch its Annual Country Results Report for the year 2022.
The #UN has played a critical role in supporting the Royal Government of #Bhutan and implementing partners to assist the country to realize its national development priorities and progress towards the #2030Agenda for #SustainableDevelopment. In 2022, the 31 UN agencies, funds and programmes that work in #Bhutan supported the Royal Government of Bhutan with USD $22.5 million through various development projects and programmes.
The work of the #UN in Bhutan through its UN Sustainable Development partnership Framework (UNSDPF) for the period 2019 - 2023 has been driven by the overarching goal of achieving “a just, harmonious and sustainable Bhutan where no one is left behind”. In both its regular programmes and in its post-pandemic response, the #UN has focused first and foremost on those left furthest behind, using an integrated programming approach across priority areas to achieve results.
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Story
15 November 2023
Football for the Goals Kick Off
The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Bhutan, in collaboration with the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF), kicked off the "Football for the Goals," initiative - a groundbreaking initiative aimed at leveraging the power of football to drive positive social change and promote sustainable development in Bhutan. This innovative campaign, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), will run until March 2024.
The campaign was launched today at the Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu during the finale of the 𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑.
Bhutan has made remarkable strides in national development; however, challenges related to mental health, substance abuse, gender-based violence, and climate change persist. The "Football for the Goals" campaign harnesses the popularity of football to address these challenges, fostering unity, inclusivity, and shared responsibility among communities.
As the world strives to achieve the SDGs by 2030, innovative and inclusive approaches are essential to inspire positive social change. Football, as one of the world's most popular sports, has the potential to serve as a powerful platform for advancing the SDGs.
The "Football for the Goals" initiative will unfold through various campaigns focusing on different aspects of social development by equipping young Bhutanese with the knowledge and skills necessary to harness the influence of football and become catalysts for change in their communities.
The five-month long campaign will focus on four themes:
Health and Wellbeing: Address mental health, nutrition, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights issues through football-related activities and workshops, promoting healthier lifestyles.
Protecting Children and Youth: Foster a safe environment for young Bhutanese through education, awareness, and empowerment initiatives, coinciding with International Day of the Girl Child and World Children’s Day.
Gender Equality and Women Empowerment: Promote gender equality and women's empowerment, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate women's achievements in sports during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence.
Climate Action: Rais awareness about climate change challenges faced by mountain communities, inspire climate action, and empower youth to become environmental stewards.
Bhutan Football Federation was recently admitted as a member of the UN’s initiative “Football for the Goals.” By joining the initiative, the federation commits to advocate the achievement of and implementing policies aligned with the SDGs.
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Story
05 December 2023
Kick for Equality: UN Bhutan and Bhutan Football Federation Unite for 16 Days of Activism
In a groundbreaking collaboration to harness the transformative power of sports for social change, the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Bhutan and the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF), in partnership with RENEW, have launched the innovative campaign ‘Kick for Equality.’ This initiative aligns with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, focusing on promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment through football.
Football for the Goals Initiative
This campaign is a pivotal component of the Football for the Goals Initiative, introduced in October this year. As a call to action to amplify support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the campaign leverages the power of sports, specifically football, to advance sustainability, equality, human rights, and climate action.
Campaign Objectives
Raise Awareness about Gender-Based Violence: Utilizing football-related content and engagement to educate the Bhutanese population, especially youth, about gender-based violence, challenging stereotypes, and encouraging reporting.
Promote Behavioral Change: Using football as a platform, the campaign aims to encourage sustainable practices related to gender equality and gender-based violence.
Engage Young People as Agents of Change: Empowering young people in Bhutan to actively advocate for and implement the SDGs, leveraging their enthusiasm for football to drive positive social change and challenge societal norms.
Showcase Female Role Models: Highlighting female athletes as role models, breaking barriers, and inspiring young girls to participate in football and other sports, fostering inclusivity and teamwork.
Foster Multisectoral Collaboration: Collaborating with various sectors in Bhutan, including government, civil society, and private organizations, to jointly address social issues, using football as a unifying platform.
Campaign Activities
The campaign, running from 25 November to 10 December, features a series of impactful activities:
Campaign Launch Event (26 November): A friendly all-women football match involving national women’s football and community representatives in Gelephu will kick off the campaign.
#OrangeTheWorld TikTok Challenge: Encouraging users to share stories, perspectives, and messages of support for the 16 Days of Activism.
Women in Sports Panel Discussion: Prominent female athletes and sports leaders will discuss breaking stereotypes and empowering women through sports in Thimphu.
Bodyright Campaign: Joining the global movement to stop online body abuse, emphasizing the need to protect bodily autonomy online.
The Strength of a Woman: A panel discussion celebrating the achievements and challenges of Bhutanese women, providing insights into their journeys and contributions to society.
The Resident Coordinator of UN Bhutan, Karla Robin Hershey said empowering women and girls is not just a goal; it is a fundamental necessity for building a sustainable and equitable future. In our effort to leave no one behind, we must prioritize women and girls.
"The UN country team in Bhutan stands unwaveringly committed to supporting the Royal Government to ensure every woman and girl can live free from violence," said Karla Robin Hershey.
This collaborative effort stands as a testament to the power of sports in fostering societal change and creating a world where every individual, regardless of gender, can thrive without fear or discrimination.
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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.
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Story
14 February 2024
UNCT Extends Congratulations to Bhutan’s new Government
The Resident Coordinator (RC) Karla Robin Hershey, the UN Country Team (UNCT) to offer Tashi Khadhar (congratulatory offering) to the newly appointed Prime Minister, Lyonchen Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the nine Cabinet Ministers and the Speaker of the National Assembly.
This ceremonial gesture of respect also serves as a tangible expression of the dedication of UN Bhutan to partnering and fostering collaborative relationships with the Royal Government of Bhutan. The United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2024 – 2028) was recently agreed with the Royal Government of Bhutan. It sets out the collective offer of the United Nations to advance the sustainable development goals and the 13th Five Year Development Plan.
Written by Tshering Palden
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Story
29 December 2023
Ensuring Leaving No One Behind
The UN House warmly welcomed 50 children from some of the most remote schools in the country! During their visit, these young minds had the incredible opportunity to meet with Ms. Karla Robin Hershey, the Resident Coordinator of UN Bhutan, and the UN Country Team.
Immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the UN House, the children engaged with the staff and delved into the impactful work of the UN. They gained insights into their pivotal role in catalyzing positive change within their communities and empowering themselves as agents of change for various social issues.
Currently, these inspiring children are in Thimphu for the second edition of the Bridging the Gap initiative, hosted by the Bhutan Football Federation. This initiative strives to create a nurturing and safe environment where underprivileged children can hone their football and communication skills.
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Story
15 November 2023
World Food Day
Commemorating the World Food Day, the Under-16, Under-17 and Under-19 Bhutan’s National Football Teams joined the Football for the Goals Fun Walk. This is part of the five-months innovative campaign of the United Nations and Football Federation, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
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Story
13 November 2023
United in Remembrance
In a world marked by turmoil, the United Nations Country Team in Bhutan stands united in its commitment to peace, justice, and the well-being of all. A recent gathering at the UN House in Bhutan echoed these sentiments, as the team came together to pay tribute to the #UNRWA staff who tragically lost their lives in the conflict-ridden region of Gaza.
The solemn event not only honored the memory of the fallen UNRWA heroes but also served as a poignant reminder that civilians should never be exploited as human shields. The global UN community joined hands in solidarity, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and the imperative need for lasting peace.
The toll has reached a heartbreaking 101 UNRWA staff lost in Gaza, a stark reality that compels the international community to act with urgency and empathy. For over a month, the resilient people of Gaza have endured unprecedented hardships – besieged, denied aid, lives lost, and homes destroyed by relentless bombings.
More than [100] UN colleagues, aid workers of historical significance, have made the ultimate sacrifice in their quest to bring relief to those in need. Their legacy serves as a testament to the unwavering dedication of the humanitarian community.
As the world grapples with the consequences of this protracted conflict, the call for peace echoes louder than ever. It is a call that transcends borders and ideologies, urging nations to prioritize the sanctity of civilians and the inviolability of UN facilities.
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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.
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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”.
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