United Nations 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:

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06 November 2025

Bhutan SDG Partnership Week Day 2- Youth Lead the Conversation on the SDGs at Sherubtse College

Under the theme “Turning Ideas into Action: Youth Driving the SDGs,” students, educators, and community members came together to explore how Bhutan’s youth are transforming awareness into tangible progress for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).The day began with three dynamic panel discussions, each highlighting a different dimension of youth leadership.The first session, “We Are Not Just the Future; We Are the Now,” celebrated young changemakers who are leading local movements—from zero-waste initiatives and digital innovation to girls’ education and climate advocacy. The discussions reflected a growing sense of ownership among young Bhutanese who see themselves not as future leaders, but as active contributors shaping their communities today. Ms. Resham Subba, one of the panellists, stated: “Our panel discussion on “We are not just the future, we are the now” reminded us that youth are active changemakers, not passive inheritors. We explored how gender equality, climate change, and the SDG goals are all connected, and how our voices and actions today can shape a more just and sustainable world. Despite challenges, the discussion highlighted our collective power and responsibility to create positive change, starting now.” The second panel, “Voices We Don’t Hear Enough,” created a safe and inclusive space for open dialogue on mental health, disability inclusion, and social justice. Students shared deeply personal stories about resilience, identity, and belonging, reminding participants that inclusion begins with listening and empathy. Ms. Kezang Choden Namgyel, one of the panellists, stated: “The session allowed me to express my viewpoints on gender equality in a safe and respectful space, where I was truly listened to without the fear of being judged or targeted. Listening to my peers speak openly about the stereotypes and double standards they face was both eye-opening and empowering. It reminded me that many of us share similar struggles, even if our experiences differ. The discussion reinforced how important it is to create more such spaces where young people, especially women and marginalized voices, can speak freely, be heard, and be supported without hesitation.”The final discussion, “Think Global, Act Local,” showcased innovative student-led projects linking entrepreneurship with sustainability. From social enterprises to campus-driven green initiatives, participants shared how creativity and collaboration can drive economic growth that leaves no one behind. Mr. Jigdrel Kinley Namgyel, one of the panellists, stated:“The panel discussion made me realize how such discussion can enable one youth to encourage another. The vastness of perspectives from one person to another lets us rethink and learn much deeper than how we usually see. I would say overall the panel discussion opened my eyes wider into what a youth can do in innovation and SDG” In the afternoon, the focus shifted from conversation to community action with Hing Sang Sang Together — a campus-wide cleaning campaign that united students, faculty, and Kanglung residents. The initiative, first launched in Thimphu, translates to “United for a Clean Bhutan” . The activity reflected Bhutan’s long-standing values of environmental stewardship and civic responsibility, reminding participants that meaningful change begins close to home.As the day closed, Sherubtse College once again became a space of both dialogue and action, where ideas took shape through collaboration, and young voices reaffirmed their vital role in building a cleaner, fairer, and more sustainable Bhutan.

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Participants attend the Bhutan SDG Partnership Week Youth Dialogues at Sherubtse College

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05 November 2025

Bhutan SDG Partnership Week Opens at Sherubtse College

The second Bhutan SDG Partnership Week opened with a powerful message of unity for gender equality and the empowerment of women. The week-long celebration, jointly organized by Sherubtse College and the United Nations in Bhutan, will celebrate Bhutan's progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Grand Opening was graced by the President of Sherubtse College and the UN Resident Coordinator a.i. First launched in 2024 by Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck- President of the Bhutan Paralympic Committee, the Bhutan SDG Partnership Week, is now in its second year, it continues to foster collaboration and celebrates partnerships driving progress for people and planet. The Grand Opening was a reminder that the Bhutan SDG partnership Week is more than an event, it is a reminder that everyone must work together to build a better future where no one is left behind.For Sherubtse College, the week marked a historic moment as Bhutan continues to lead by example in building a sustainable and inclusive society. Mr. Tshering Wangdi, President of Sherubtse College stated: “The Bhutan SDG Partnership Week is more than a series of events—it is a collective call for action and a reminder that real change begins locally, in our classrooms, our towns, and our communities.” Dr. Bhupinder Kaur Aulakh, UN Resident Coordinator a.i., reflected on how Bhutan’s development ethos continues to inspire the world. She emphasized the central role of partnerships in achieving the SDGs, stating that: “Partnerships are the heartbeat of the SDGs. They allow us to connect national leadership with local action, and global ambition with lived realities.” Dr. Aulakh highlighted that the Bhutan SDG Partnership Week is more than just a gathering of stakeholders, it is a living example of Bhutan’s spirit of collaboration, where communities, institutions, and generations come together to shape a shared future. As the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary, she highlighted the importance of collective action to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment, aligning Bhutan’s national values with global priorities.This year's Bhutan SDG Partnership Week embraced the theme of Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, reflecting Bhutan's deep-rooted belief in equality as a cornerstone of Gross national happiness. The day's programme highlighted how women's voices, leadership, and contributions continue to shape Bhutan's progress towards a more inclusive and sustainable future. A captivating cultural performance, “Mo-Wong: She Who Came Forward”, by the Sherubtse Cultural Club, paid tribute to the courage of women who challenge harmful gender stereotypes and inspire transformation within their families, communities, and the nation. It set the tone for reflection on Bhutan's evolving gender landscape, one where women have historically played central roles in managing households, land, and community life, yet continue to navigate new challenges in a modernizing economy. In her speech titled “A 21st Century Woman,” Ms. Kinley Paldon, Vice Coordinator of the Sherubtse GNH Club, captured the spirit of the theme. She spoke passionately about the changing roles and aspirations of women in contemporary Bhutan and the shared responsibility of both women and men in building a just and equal society. Her words reinforced that empowering women is not only about equality, but also about unlocking Bhutan's full potential for development and progress. “Today, the 21st-century woman writes her own story, boldly, unapologetically, and on her own terms…Empowerment is not about women rising above men, but about humanity rising together.”The morning also featured the launch of the Sherubtse Gender Allies Initiative, under the Sherubtse UN Club, which is a student-led movement to promote equality, respect, and empathy on campus. The initiative was symbolically launched through the unfurling of “The Weaving Loom”, a wooden artwork created by Bhutanese artist Mr. Pema Tshering, a person with cerebral palsy. Using only his feet, Pema carved the loom to represent unity and balance. The Weaving Loom serves as a reminder that, like the warp and weft of a loom, men and women together form the strong fabric of a just society. Ms. Jigme Wangmo, Coordinator of the Sherubtse UN Club stated: “You’ve reminded us that young people have the power to make real change, today, not just in the future…Every little action we take can make a big difference.”The grand opening closed with the vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Sonam Tobgay, President of the FINA club at Sherubtse college. He stated: “This week reminded us that youth are not just participants but active partners in building a sustainable and equitable future for all.” The celebrations continued with the SDG Champions Parade, an Olympic-style march featuring students representing each of the 17 Goals. Marching under brightly coloured banners, the parade reflected the energy, creativity, and leadership of Bhutan's youth. Each group carried banners, props, and costumes representing their respective goals, while the crowd cheered in support. The parade symbolized not only awareness but also action, a reminder that progress happens when everyone contributes. The parade was complimented by the unfurling the Bhutan SDG Partnership Week flag, featuring a logo inspired by the global SDG wheel, with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) at its centre. The flag symbolizes unity, diversity, and Bhutan’s collective commitment to sustainable development. The flag-off also marked the beginning of the SDG Ball Games, a fun and inclusive sporting event aimed at promoting teamwork and healthy living.The Bhutan SDG Partnership Week promises a vibrant line-up of activities, from youth dialogues and panel discussions to art drive, community clean-ups, and a grand SDG Concert. Each event reflects a shared vision, that sustainable development begins with people, their ideas, actions, and unity in purpose.As the opening day concluded, the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose was evident across the Sherubtse campus. The Bhutan SDG Partnership Week 2025 underscores how progress toward the Goals is strongest when built on inclusion, dialogue, and collective effort.

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Dr. Bhupinder Kau Aulakh (Resident Coordinator a.i., Mr. Tshering Wangdi (President of Sherubtse College), and members of the Sherubtse UN Club, holding up a woodwork

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30 July 2025

Bhutan Moves Forward on Inclusion

Persons with disabilities, senior citizens, women, youth and the LGBT+ community face barriers to effective participation in economic, social and political spheres. This includes discrimination, stigma, ableism, and unconscious bias. At the Annual Consultation on the Common Country Analysis (CCA) and Leaving No One Behind (LNOB) held on July 30, representatives from the Royal Government of Bhutan, civil society organizations, members of marginalized communities, and the United Nations reflected on progress and identified practical ways to ensure that Bhutan’s development leaves no one behind.At the core of the consultation was the recognition that persons with disabilities, women, youth, senior citizens, and LGBT+ individuals continue to face layered barriers to participation in Bhutan’s social, political, and economic life. These challenges range from stigma, ableism, and structural discrimination, to lack of services and opportunities in rural and remote areas. Kinley Phyntso, UNV- LNOB Specialist from the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office said:“Persons with disabilities, LGBT+ individuals, youth, and women still face many barriers to participation... The UN and the Royal Government are here to change that- through policies, through partnerships, and most importantly, through listening.”In recent years, Bhutan has made notable achievements; Bhutan adopted a comprehensive National Policy for Persons with Disabilities in 2019, ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2023, and most recently launched an UN-led surge initiative in 2024 to accelerate disability inclusion. Progress has also been seen in gender and LGBT+ rights, including the 2025 National Action Plan to Promote Gender Equality in Public Administration (NAP GEPA) and the gradual strengthening of protections for LGBT+ communities following the 2021 decriminalization of same-sex relationships.A presentation by the United Nations on the 2025 Common Country Analysis (CCA) highlighted the demographic landscape marked by a declining birth rate, increasing youth migration, and growing aging population, and called for urgent policy responses to address these interlinked trends. Lekema Dorji, the Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist with UNICEF Bhutan who presented on behalf of the UN CCA Task Force said:“We’re seeing youth outmigration, a declining fertility rate, and persistent inequality. Our analysis must be grounded in the lived realities of those most often left behind.”Meanwhile, Palden Wangchuk Dorji of Y-PEER shared how young people in eastern Bhutan feel abandoned by development, with most services clustered in the western region. This disconnect, he explained, is pushing even civil servants to seek better futures abroad. “Youth aren’t just leaving because they want to,” he said. “They’re leaving because they don’t see a future here.” Although Bhutan’s fertility rate has seen a steep decline since the 1980s, participants highlighted that financial incentives alone are unlikely to reverse the trend. Pema Dorji from Queer Voices of Bhutan (QVoB) pointed out that in the absence of childcare support, parental leave, and inclusive infrastructure, starting a family remains an unrealistic expectation for many. This sentiment was shared by Chimi Om of the Phensem Parents’ Support Group, who stressed the urgent need for practical services to support working mothers. Dr. Menakshi Rai of RENEW added that evolving social values, including the growing emphasis on education and quality of life, must be reflected in national policies.The second session featured Agenda Chikha, Bhutan’s cross-sectoral initiative for disability inclusion, built around four pillars: Empowering Lives, Changing Mindsets, Lifting Our Game, and Building Knowledge. Participants provided feedback on the initiative’s progress and pushed for more ambitious programming. The issue of accessibility for persons with disabilities was raised throughout. Sonam Pelden, Health Officer with Bhutan Red Cross Society questioned:“Are our offices even wheelchair accessible? If not, where do we begin?”The Red Cross, which operates a nationwide network of over 8,000 volunteers, was praised for its “Red Cross Ride for Health” initiative that provides free transport and essentials for persons with disabilities.The third session of the consultation focused on critical gaps in access to healthcare, psychosocial support, and legal aid for marginalized groups. Bhutan has made notable progress in improving social indicators, but persistent challenges remain, especially for those at the intersection of multiple forms of discrimination. According to the 2017 Population and Housing Census of Bhutan, around 2.1 percent of the population lives with some form of disability, and while exact numbers for LGBT+ individuals are not available, organizations like Queer Voices of Bhutan (QVoB) report increasing visibility and demand for rights recognition. Yet, these communities continue to experience layered exclusions based on disability, gender identity, poverty, and rural residency.Nalini Andrade, Director for International Development at Humber Polytechnic, raised concern over the overuse of the term "intersectionality" in policy discourse, warning that it often results in diverse groups being lumped into a single category under one limited budget line. This broad-brush approach, she cautioned, undermines the specific and differing needs of each group.Kinley Phyntso from the UNRCO posed a fundamental question: is Bhutan’s legal and policy system truly inclusive of persons with disabilities and those with diverse SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics) identities? Despite legal reforms, many structural barriers persist. For instance, Principal Dechen highlighted how the lack of sign language interpretation and accessible public information continues to marginalize the deaf community. Similarly, Pema Dorji of QVoB highlighted how queer individuals, especially those living with disabilities and in rural areas, are frequently overlooked in national inclusion efforts. He stressed the importance of recognizing the compounded nature of exclusion- where being queer, disabled, poor, and rural often means being invisible in both data and decision-making processes. Without targeted policies and disaggregated budget allocations, Bhutan’s broader inclusion agenda risks leaving these communities behind.Emergency preparedness emerged as a critical area where inclusion is often overlooked. In Bhutan, despite ongoing efforts to build resilience against natural disasters and emergencies, the specific needs of persons with disabilities remain inadequately addressed. The country is highly vulnerable to natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides, and the need for inclusive disaster response systems is becoming increasingly urgent.Currently, Bhutan lacks visual alert systems tailored for the deaf community, and accessible communication tools during emergencies are largely absent. This creates significant barriers for persons with hearing impairments to receive timely and life-saving information. Meanwhile, the Bhutan Red Cross Society, with its wide network of trained volunteers, continues to respond actively in both emergency and non-emergency situations. Sonam Pelden highlighted the organization’s readiness to support vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities and the elderly.Dr. Menakshi Rai from RENEW added that by the end of this year, community service centers will be operational in all 20 dzongkhags. She said:“These centers aim to strengthen local-level support for women and children facing violence and other vulnerabilities, contributing to a more inclusive and responsive social protection system.”The end of the consultation brought the focus back to a critical question: What more can the United Nations do to ensure that no one is left behind? For many participants, the answer lies in building deeper, more equitable partnerships, especially with grassroots and community-led organizations that are often sidelined in national policy conversations. Voices from the session emphasized the need to support queer-led groups on par with disability-focused organizations, and to create practical systems that enable inclusion across all dzongkhags. The consultation ended with a powerful reminder that meaningful inclusion is not just a box to tick, but a commitment that must be embedded in the way the UN, government, and partners work, and highlighted the importance of presence, not just at consultations, but in the lived realities of those most often excluded.Looking ahead, participants identified several priority actions: strengthening coordination between UN agencies, civil society, and government on LNOB inclusion; ensuring services across all sectors are inclusive of persons with disabilities and individuals with diverse SOGIESC identities, providing sustained support to queer-led organizations, and guaranteeing that all UN-led consultations and programming are safe, accessible, and inclusive.

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Participants at the UN Bhutan consultation on Leaving No One Behind (LNOB), including a representative with blindness (center), share their lived experiences and perspectives to inform inclusive development efforts.

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24 October 2025

United Nations Day 2025: Eight Decades of Hope, Unity, and Action

At the UN House in Thimphu, the UN Country Team gathered to commemorate United Nations Day 2025 with a flag hoisting ceremony, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, human rights, and sustainable development.The event began with the hoisting of the UN flag, symbolizing unity among nations and the enduring spirit of international cooperation. Mr. Timothy Wilson, Head of Office of the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, read the UN Secretary-General’s message, which called on the world to stand together to confront global challenges “of staggering scale — escalating conflicts, climate chaos, runaway technologies, and threats to the very fabric of our institution.” The Secretary-General in his message said:“Now, more than ever, the world must recommit to solving problems no nation can solve alone... Let’s show the world what is possible when ‘we the peoples’ choose to act as one"The ceremony also included an oath-taking for new UN staff in Bhutan, marking their formal induction into the UN family. The event concluded with a cake-cutting and a butter lamp lighting ceremony at the Tara Lhaden Zhingkham Lhakhang in Pangrizampa, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, symbolizing collective prayers for peace and well-being.As the UN turns 80, this year’s observance serves as a moment of reflection and renewal, a time to look back on the Organization’s achievements in promoting peace and prosperity, and to look ahead to the future envisioned by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Pact for the Future, and the UN80 initiative.In Bhutan, where Gross National Happiness remains the guiding vision of national development, the UN reaffirms its partnership with the Royal Government and the people of Bhutan in building an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future, leaving no one behind.

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he Royal Government of Bhutan and UN Bhutan came together at Parizampa to mark United Nations Day 2025

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15 August 2025

Building Inclusive and Safe Spaces: UN Bhutan Trains Staff and Partners on Disability, Gender, and PSEA.

The session brought together newly appointed UN staff, security personnel, hotel Long-Term Agreement (LTA) holders, and vehicle rental service providers to strengthen understanding of inclusive practices.Mr. Phuntsho Wangyel, UNFPA Bhutan Head of Office and Chair of the UN Bhutan Interagency Human Rights, Gender and Disability Inclusion Working Group, opened the meeting. He stated:“Disability equality is about listening, understanding their needs, aspirations, challenges, and creating inclusive environments and empowering them. Respect in words and actions matters, and understanding gender roles and intersectionality helps ensure equitable opportunities for all. Upholding these standards also means maintaining safe spaces. The UN’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse applies to everyone, making dignity a shared responsibility.”Disability Equality: Understanding Barriers, Building RespectFacilitators - including UN staff with disabilities and representatives from the Disabled People’s Organisation of Bhutan (DPOB) - guided participants through practical demonstrations on disability etiquette. For example, when supporting a person with blindness, participants were reminded to introduce themselves first, speak directly, offer their arm for guidance, and describe the environment clearly.The session also introduced the basics of Bhutanese Sign Language (BHSL) and highlighted communication challenges faced by the deaf community. Discussions on physical disability emphasised how exclusion often stems from societal and environmental barriers rather than impairment itself. Gender Equality and Intersectionality: Breaking Down StereotypesFacilitators unpacked key concepts on gender roles, stereotypes, and socialisation. Participants examined different models of equality — from formal equality, which treats everyone the same without accounting for differing needs, to protectionist approaches, which can unintentionally restrict opportunities.The training highlighted the value of a corrective approach that focuses on fixing barriers in the environment rather than expecting individuals to adapt. For example, instead of limiting opportunities for women, persons with disabilities, or other marginalised groups, the corrective approach ensures that workplaces, policies, and services are enabling and inclusive, achieving equality through equitable processes.Intersectionality was a core theme, showing how overlapping dimensions such as disability, gender, poverty, and geography can increase vulnerability. For instance, women with disabilities are more likely to face violence, while those from poor or rural backgrounds face additional challenges in accessing services.Addressing PSEA in All ContextsThe training also included a session on protection from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA), reminding participants of their shared responsibility to uphold the highest standards of conduct in all workplace and service delivery contexts. It was emphasised that the UN has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse. The UN in Bhutan only partners with LTA holders and service providers who commit to these standards in their agreements and daily practice.Building an Inclusive UN SystemBy the end of the day, participants gained greater awareness of disability as a human rights and equality issue, strengthened their understanding of gender and intersectionality, and committed to fostering safe and inclusive environments.Mr. Kinley Phyntso, UN UNV-LNOB Specialist, and one of the moderators of the training stated:“Inclusion, equality, and safety are fundamental rights - at work, at home, and in society. They are not privileges or charity, and they must be respected and upheld for and by everyone, regardless of gender or ability. We encourage each of you to consider how you can personally contribute to making this a reality.”This training contributes to advancing the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS) and the UN System-wide Action Plan on Gender Equality (UN-SWAP) in Bhutan, reinforcing the UN’s commitment to uphold equality, dignity, and inclusion in all aspects of its work.

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A UN Volunteer from FAO, delivering a presentation on disability inclusion, along with practical demonstrations on disability etiquette. He is a person with blindless, who is stood in front of the training participants delivering the presentation.

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12 August 2025

Bhutan Marks International Youth Day 2025 with a Focus on Local Youth Leadership for the SDGs.

The message was clear. Young people are not just leaders in waiting, but changemakers shaping the country’s present and future. Under the global theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the day brought together students, youth leaders, representatives from the Royal Government and UN agencies to celebrate how young Bhutanese are driving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level. True to its theme, the programme was co-designed and led by youth, who moderated panels, presented innovations, and steered discussions on issues that matter most to their communities. Opening the event, UN Resident Coordinator a.i. Dr. Bhupinder Kaur Aulakh reminded participants that achieving the SDGs requires more than policy, it needs action led by young people in their own communities. She called for greater investment in youth-led solutions, inclusive spaces, and opportunities for young people to shape local planning, climate resilience, and a sustainable economy. She stated: “You are not just the leaders of tomorrow. You are the changemakers of today.” One highlight was a presentation by Ugyen Dendup, Co-founder and CEO of NoMind, the country’s first AI startup. From building a COVID-19 social distancing robot to developing AI solutions for major Bhutanese clients, Ugyen’s journey illustrates how mastery of technology by youth can advance local development, create jobs, and help achieve the SDGs. Two youth-led panels explored pressing priorities. The first, titled We Are Not Just the Future; We Are the Now, moderated by Pema Wangchuk of the UN Bhutan Adolescent and Youth Advisory Board, spotlighted grassroot szinitiatives for SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Speakers shared projects ranging from agricultural empowerment and climate justice to mobilizing students nationwide through the G17 University Ambassadors Consortium. The second panel, Voices We Don’t Hear Enough, moderated by youth activist Rinchen Choden, focused on SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Panelists discussed disability inclusion, LGBTQI+ rights, accessibility, and the importance of safe spaces for mental health and identity expression. Denzin Wangyal Rinchen, a youth advocate, highlighted the central role of youth in designing and leading the event, and reaffirmed the collective commitment to empowering young people as drivers of sustainable change and local development. Closing the day, UNICEF Representative Rushnan Murtaza, praised the courage and curiosity of Bhutan’s youth. She stated: “Continue with the great work. Question the adults. Challenge us. The SDGs are as important to you as they are to us, and we look forward to working together to create more platforms for youth voices to be heard.” The event was organized by the UN in Bhutan, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Skills Development and the Royal Thimphu College.

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Participants attending the Bhutan International Youth Day 2025 celebration under the global theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond". They are seated and looking towards the stage at the venue auditorium.

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23 July 2025

Bhutan Joins Global Climate Call to Supercharge Clean Energy Transition

Bhutan stood in solidarity with countries around the world to mark the United Nations' “Moment of Opportunity” a global call to supercharge the transition to clean energy. The event, held at the Thimphu, brought together government officials, youth leaders, development partners, civil society, and storytellers to reflect on Bhutan’s climate leadership and explore pathways to a just and inclusive energy future.Opening the event, Mr. Mohammad Younus, UNDP Resident Representative, reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to Bhutan’s sustainable development, highlighting Bhutan’s submission of its first National Adaptation Plan and the inclusive design of its third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0). For the first time, Bhutan’s new NDC will include the social sector. This is a remarkable step forward as it recognizes that the impacts of climate change are not gender-neutral and that a just transition must address the needs and voices of everyone including women and men, children, youth, and persons with disabilities. Thereby, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient future. The Secretary of Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Dasho Karma Tshering, who graced the event as the Chief Guest, underscored Bhutan’s potential in renewable energy and its continued leadership in balancing development with environmental stewardship.The NDC 3.0 is well-aligned with Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan and the 21st Century Economic Roadmap. This coherence is not just strategic but is essential for delivering tangible, society-wide benefits that balance climate action with economic aspirations. By doing so, Bhutan can continue to demonstrate how environmental stewardship goes hand-in-hand with inclusive development.Every fraction of a degree of warming matters. 2024 has been the warmest year in recorded history, crossing the symbolic 1.5°C mark for the first time. While this does not mean the world has lost the Paris Agreement goal, it is a powerful reminder that every member state must accelerate its actions in this critical decade. The UN Secretary-General’s address, “A Moment of Opportunity: Supercharging the New Energy Era” was timely. The Secretary-General’s message laid out the economic case for a just energy transition, one that creates jobs, attracts investment, protects nature, and powers a liveable future. The highlight of the event was a dynamic panel discussion which explored how Bhutan can localize the UN Secretary-General’s global call for a just and inclusive energy transition. Guided by the priorities of COP30 and Bhutan’s own evolving climate commitments, the discussion featured diverse perspectives, from government, youth, civil society, development partners, and storytellers. Key themes included the importance of community narratives in humanizing the energy transition, the role of youth as critical drivers of climate innovation and accountability, the interlinkages between clean energy, food security, and social protection, and the need for inclusive policymaking to accelerate progress on Bhutan’s NDC 3.0. The session emphasized that climate solutions must be rooted in local realities, champion equity and intergenerational justice, and be supported through strong collaboration across sectors. The event concluded with the launch of “Moment of Opportunity: Bhutan’s Digital Call to Climate Action”, a nationwide social media campaign that amplified the UN Secretary-General’s global climate message through locally grounded and compelling storytelling. Set in Punakha valley, the campaign featured four prominent Bhutanese influencers who produced engaging video content spotlighting Bhutan’s climate leadership, particularly its commitment to updating its NDCs. Through a Peer-to-Peer Climate Messaging challenge, influencers mobilized followers to watch the Secretary-General’s speech, share their own climate actions, and tag others to do the same-sparking a viral movement across Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. The campaign tapped into youth energy, and the power of digital networks, reaching over 150,000 users and building momentum for climate justice and a just energy transition ahead of COP30. Bhutan’s vision and leadership continue to inspire well beyond its borders. The establishment of the G-Zero Forum, in partnership with Suriname, Madagascar, and Panama, is a powerful example of what small states can achieve when united by a shared commitment to a net-zero, nature-positive future. As Bhutan prepares for COP30 and beyond, this moment calls on all to renew the climate commitment- to champion bold, just, and inclusive climate action.

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11 July 2025

World Population Day 2025: Bhutan Celebrates Reproductive Agency and the Power of Choice.

Bhutan observed the World Population Day with the story of a single Bhutanese family, anchored in old values but tugged in every direction by new realities. Performed by Y-PEER, the powerful play “Echoes of Home” tells the story of Tenzin, a single father weighed down by debt. This is the story of Selden, an ambitious professional delaying motherhood for her career. New parents like Kinley and Wangmo, stretched thin by the daily grind of raising kids while chasing promotions, or just a little time alone. Then, there is Pema, a TikTok influencer who is craving freedom over expectations. Their stories collided and overlapped, frustrations spilling into hopes, capturing honest moment of how Bhutan's once predictable population story is being rewritten. Through this intimate story on stage, the participants at the 2025 World Population Day were invited to look beyond statistics and see the real faces behind the trends. The play set the tone for a wider conversation on how deeply personal choices about marriage, children, work, and migration are shaping Bhutan's demographic future in ways that policies and plan must urgently address.Graced by Her Majesty the Queen Mother Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, the UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, the event was organized by the Office of the Cabinet Affairs and Strategic Coordination, RENEW, and UNFPA Bhutan. Not a Crisis of Numbers- A Crisis of ChoiceA report titled “The Real Fertility Crisis: The Pursuit of Reproductive Agency in a Changing World” challenges prevailing narratives was launched during the event. The report states that fertility rates are falling in many countries, but not because people have stopped valuing families. In fact, the report reveals that most people, including those in low-fertility countries, want two or more children. However, nearly 1 in 5 adults say fears about the future- climate change, job insecurity, rising costs, are preventing them from doing so.Bhutan’s trends mirror a global pattern: people want children but feel unable to meet their aspirations due to structural constraints. In 14 countries surveyed, together home to 37% of the world’s population, the findingsReveal a powerful truth about the gap between people's hopes and their realities. Nearly one in five reproductive-age adults believe they cannot have the number of children they ideally want. Almost one in three have experienced an unintended pregnancy at some point in their lives. For many, money stands in the way of their family plans with 39% reporting that financial constraints have shaped how many children they could have. And nearly one in four shared that they felt unable to have a child when they truly wanted to. These numbers, taken together, tell a story not just about finding birth rates but about dream deferred and hidden barriers that keep people from building the families they hope for. Nearly 1 in 4 have felt unable to fulfil their desire for a child at their preferred time.Dr. Natalia Kanem, Executive Director of UNFPA, states in the report:“The answer lies in reproductive agency, a person’s ability to make free and informed choices about sex, contraception and starting a family, if, when and with whom they want.”Bhutan’s Demographic Transition in FocusSpeaking at the opening of the event, Dasho Kesang Deki, the Cabinet Secretary, reflected on Bhutan's own demographic crossroads. Dasho reminded the audience that the country’s declining Total Fertility Rate and the trend of young people postponing marriage and parenthood are far more than just numbers, they reveal the difficult choices young Bhutanese face as they try to balance education, career ambitions, and the wish to start families in a fast-changing world. Today, Bhutan’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has fallen sharply from an average five to six children per women in 1990 to fewer than two, a level below replacement. Meanwhile, the population growth rate has dropped from over 3.1% in 1994 to less than 1% today. Despite this slowdown, more than two-thirds of Bhutan’s people are still within the working-age bracket, placing the country in what experts call a “demographic golden hour”, a narrow window to harness the energy and potential of its youth before an ageing population overtakes growth.The Cabinet Secretary highlighted the government’s commitment to preparing for this future, pointing to the 13th Five Year Plan, which aims to build a shock-responsive, inclusive, and comprehensive social protection system by 2029, ensuring that no one is left behind as Bhutan navigates this demographic shift. A New Framing of Family Aspirations in Bhutan UNFPA Bhutan’s Head of Office, Phuntsho Wangyel, reinforced this important shift in perspective by reminding everyone where the real answers lie. “What can or must governments do? The report makes it clear: the solution is to expand choices for everyone. That means better access to reproductive health services and building environments where families can thrive,” he said.On behalf of the United Nations in Bhutan, Phuntsho Wangyel commended Bhutan’s bold decision to adopt the “gap between desired and actual family size” as a national Key Result Area in the 13th Five Year Plan, a significant departure from the earlier goal of simply reversing the fertility decline. This, he noted, signals a more rights-based approach that places individual and family aspirations at the heart of national policy. For which, he added, it is important to rally behind people’s rights to decide freely and responsibly how many children to have, and when. Adding urgency to the discussion, the Health Minister, Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk reminded the audience that falling fertility rates do not mean families have lost their value. “Fertility rates aren’t dropping because people no longer want families,” the Minister said. “They’re dropping because people—especially women—often feel they simply can’t afford the families they wish for. High living costs, lack of affordable childcare, job insecurity, and the absence of family-friendly policies make it harder than ever for couples to start or grow a family.”Behind the Statistics, Human StoriesAs the event came to an end, the audience was left with a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a human story, a mother exhausted by unpaid care work, a couple struggling to juggle parenting without reliable childcare, a young woman carrying the weight of social expectations, and a youth deciding that leaving home feels easier than staying behind to fight exhaustion and uncertainty. Chencho, a character from the “Echoes of Home” play, posed a question that lingered long after the event ended: “What will we do today to make sure Bhutan’s homes are filled with laughter tomorrow?”That question echoed through the National Statistics Bureau’s stark figures: a population projected to shrink after 2050, the share of elderly set to more than double from 5.9% in 2017 to 13.4% by 2047, more than 110,000 people moving from rural villages to urban centers in just over a decade, and over 70,000 Bhutanese already living or working abroad. Link to the full report

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Press Release

20 November 2020

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

15 June 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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