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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16 May 2025

Dagana Sets the Pace on Disability Inclusion at the Second Agenda Chikha Steering Meeting

Dagana Dzongkhag is emerging as a model of disability inclusion in Bhutan, demonstrating that community leadership, commitment, and innovation can drive transformative change for persons with disabilities (PwDs).The Second Steering Committee meeting of Agenda Chikha was held on 15 May in Dagana Dzongkhag, organized in partnership with the Royal Government of Bhutan and the United Nations. It brought together local leaders, development partners, and disability advocates to explore avenues to deepen inclusive practices under the national disability initiative Agenda Chikha- an initiative aimed to accelerate the country's journey towards an inclusive society where all persons with disabilities are empowered to participate fully in every aspect of life. Kinley Wangchuk, Executive Director of the Disabled People’s Organization of Bhutan, shared the rationale behind choosing Dagana as the site for the national consultation. “We chose Dagana because the Dzongkhag Administration has shown remarkable commitment and initiative in promoting the rights and wellbeing of persons with disabilities,” he said. “Dagana is emerging as a model for inclusive local leadership, where policies are translating into real support for persons with disabilities. We wanted to ground this national conversation in a place where inclusion is not just a goal, but a reality in action.”With a registered population of 331 persons with disabilities, Dagana has shown that inclusion is achievable, even without large-scale resources. Examples shared during the meeting highlighted the resilience and enterprise of PwDs: from a one-handed farmer using innovative tools to cultivate land, to a grocery shop owner operating a laptop-powered business. Dagana Dzongkhag is committed to becoming a safe, secure, and progressive Dzongkhag, aiming to be to be a beacon of inclusivity where every individual, regardless of ability or background, has equal access to opportunities, a voice in decision-making, and the dignity to thrive. “Together, we will build a future that leaves no one behind,” said Dasho Tashi Tobgay, Dzongda of Dagana. “Agenda Chikha reflects a commitment to the protection of human rights and dignity, regardless of the status, gender or circumstances and fostering the culture of inclusivity, equity, and shared opportunity.”The meeting acknowledged important government budget allocations under the 13th Five-Year Plan to accelerate disability-inclusive development. The meeting included presentations, discussions, and interactive sessions on key topics such as reasonable accommodation, moving away from the charity model and into a rights-based model, and the evolving role of AI in enabling inclusion. Addressing the gathering, the Member of the National Council and Social and Cultural Affairs Committee, Kesang Chuki Dorjee, emphasized, highlighted both challenges and success stories, the structural inaccessibility, stigma, and social exclusion experienced by persons with disabilities, while also recognizing progress. There are nearly 48,000 persons with disabilities in Bhutan, according to the National Health Survey. Each person with a disability has a unique perspective and experience that is shaped by their environment and those around them. The Steering Committee of Agenda Chikha endorsed the updated Compendium of Action reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing disability inclusion across the country. The Compendium details more than 40 ongoing and upcoming initiatives under the landmark Agenda Chikha framework, launched in November 2024. The Compendium also offers a space for innovation and collaboration, showcasing promising unfunded proposals seeking development partner support. These include initiatives such as the “Tourism for All” programme, inclusive agri-food value chains, and visibility campaigns within the 13th Five-Year Plan.The Agenda Chikha Steering Committee, established in 2024, serves as a sounding board and gathering space to bring together all those working on disability inclusion in Bhutan. The second meeting of the Steering Committee had a renewed focus on engaging local governments, village leaders, and the monastic community in a more meaningful way.Timothy Wilson, Head of the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Bhutan, emphasized the deeper values underpinning the country’s journey toward inclusion. “A core component of inclusiveness is humility, kindness, and patience, qualities Bhutan is renowned for,” he said. “These values are not just cultural strengths, they are powerful tools we can draw upon to ensure that persons with disabilities are truly seen, heard, and included. Agenda Chikha is not about charity, it’s about justice, dignity, and the collective responsibility to shape a society where everyone can thrive.”Looking ahead, the next Agenda Chikha Steering Committee meeting is slated for December 2025. In the interim, government agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners will continue to work hand-in-hand to turn the commitments in the Compendium of Action into meaningful change on the ground, ensuring that the promise of inclusion becomes a lived reality for every person with a disability in Bhutan.

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13 November 2024

Bhutan SDG Partnership Week Launched: Uniting for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future

Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck, President of the Bhutan Paralympic Committee, inaugurated this remarkable event at the Convention Hall, Royal University of Bhutan, Thimphu. Hosted by the Royal Government of Bhutan and the United Nations in Bhutan, this weeklong celebration brings together government agencies, development partners, civil society, youth groups, the private sector, and academia to strengthen partnerships for a brighter, more sustainable future.Throughout the week, the Bhutan SDG Partnership Week will host thought-provoking dialogues, vibrant exhibitions, and community-driven initiatives aimed at accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with innovative and inclusive solutions. The Bhutan SDG Partnership Week will culminate in a grand SDG Festival on 16 November at Clock Tower Square, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive activities. This festival represents our shared commitment to a sustainable and inclusive future for Bhutan, celebrating the collective dedication of all stakeholders.Prime Minister Lyonchhen Dasho Tshering Tobgay highlighted the essence of these partnerships:“Bhutan’s development philosophy, rooted in Gross National Happiness, aligns deeply with the Sustainable Development Goals. The Bhutan SDG Partnership Week is a testimony to our shared vision for a sustainable future, in which no one is left behind. Together with our partners, we continue to build an inclusive society that values well-being, equity, and environmental stewardship.” A key highlight is the unveiling of Agenda Chikha, a groundbreaking initiative to advance disability inclusion in Bhutan. Crafted collaboratively by the Royal Government of Bhutan, the United Nations, development partners, and disability organizations, Agenda Chikha stands on four pillars: empowering lives, lifting our game, changing mindsets, and building knowledge.“Agenda Chikha is a new way of bringing people together and lifting our game,” shared Ms. Karla Robin Hershey, UN Resident Coordinator in Bhutan. “Guided by the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities and the findings of the National Council Report on the State of Persons with Disabilities, Agenda Chikha reflects our commitment to ensure everyone, especially persons with disabilities, thrives and contributes meaningfully to our collective journey toward the SDGs.”Her Royal Highness’s advocacy for disability inclusion reinforces the power of inclusive partnerships and policies, bringing us closer to a future where no one is left behind. #BhutanSDGPartnershipWeek #AgendaChikha #SDGs #LeaveNoOneBehind #InclusiveFuture #UNBhutan #GrossNationalHappiness

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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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22 June 2025

Hing Sang Sang Together: Bhutan’s Clean-Up Movement Reaches Indonesia

In celebration of World Environment Week, the Hing Sang Sang Together Initiative marked a major milestone by partnering with the UN office in Indonesia to extend the campaign’s vision beyond Bhutan’s borders. On 22 June 2025, 35 enthusiastic participants in Indonesia joined the clean-up initiative, collecting 22 bags of waste, around 45.1 kilograms, from public spaces in their local communities. This cross-border collaboration is a powerful reminder that environmental responsibility transcends national boundaries and that the dream of a waste-free world can unite people and communities across continents. The spirit of collective action that defines Hing Sang Sang Together was born in Bhutan, where the campaign began on 6 September 2024 with a simple but ambitious goal: to clean up our surroundings, protect natural streams and waterways, and inspire others to do the same. The name Hing Sang Sang, meaning United, We Can, reflects a deep cultural belief that small, everyday actions, when multiplied across communities, can lead to transformative change.From large-scale mobilizations with hundreds of volunteers cleaning major city streets, rivers, and school premises, to small, focused clean-ups led by a handful of determined citizens, the movement has steadily gained momentum. Schools, government agencies, local businesses, development partners, youth networks, and UN offices have come together under this banner, each contributing time, resources, and collective energy. Community leaders and volunteers have gone door to door to spread awareness, children have championed waste segregation at home, and local artists have used murals and street art to spark conversations about sustainability. Each action, whether collecting a single bag of waste or a ton, has strengthened the broader shift in mindset that Hing Sang Sang champions, that real impact is not a one-time effort but a habit, sustained by consistent action and a shared sense of responsibility for our environment. By taking this message to Indonesia and forging new partnerships, the initiative has shown that the drive for clean communities and healthy ecosystems can cross borders, cultures, and languages.

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08 March 2025

Celebrating International Women’s Day: Honoring Progress, Empowering Change, and Advancing Gender Equality

Tshering Tshokey always knew she was a transwoman, but societal pressure delayed her transition. Her breaking point came when male classmates trapped her in a school bathroom, humiliating her by dousing her with water. With no intervention from school officials, she left school. At home, acceptance was a struggle until her mother’s support, symbolized by a gift of gold earrings and a rachu, marked a turning point. Today, Tshering is a beacon of hope within Bhutan’s LGBTQIA+ community, advocating for transgender rights and support services.Her story was highlighted by Prime Minister Lyonchen Dasho Tshering Tobgay during Bhutan’s International Women’s Day 2025 celebration. While global conversations call for urgent action, the Prime Minister reflected on Bhutan's unique approach—celebrating women's achievements with gratitude, rather than emphasizing a call to action.A Tribute to Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden WangchuckThis year’s celebration paid special tribute to Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck for her 25 years of service as the UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador to Bhutan. Since 1999, Her Majesty has been a tireless advocate for women’s rights, reproductive health, and gender equality, traveling across Bhutan to reach the most vulnerable communities. “For 25 years, Her Majesty has dedicated herself to uplifting the most marginalized members of our society. As a UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador, she has traveled to every corner of the country—through rugged terrains, harsh weather, and difficult conditions, meeting countless individuals, listening to their stories, and advocating for their rights,” said the Prime Minister. At the event, government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, youth, and marginalized communities came together to honor Her Majesty's contributions. In recognition of Her Majesty’s commitment, UNFPA Asia-Pacific Regional Director Pio Smith presented Her Majesty with a prestigious award, celebrating her transformative impact on reproductive rights, health education, and gender equity. While presenting the award, Pio Smith said Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck’s commitment to gender equality has transformed the lives of women and girls across Bhutan. By challenging traditional norms, strengthening legal protections, and improving support services, Her Majesty has strengthened a society where issues once considered taboo—such as gender-based violence and reproductive rights—are openly discussed and addressed. A bold step in this journey was the establishment of RENEW, a pioneering organization dedicated to empowering women and providing a sanctuary for those escaping cycles of violence. With UNFPA’s support, RENEW has become a beacon of hope, equipping women and girls with the skills and confidence to lead independent lives. “Her Majesty has redefined what it means to be a champion for women and girls, reminding us that true progress is rooted in a world where every woman and girl can thrive, free from violence, prejudice, and limitation,” said Pio Smith. Reflecting on the journey, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck shared:“What began as a daunting task has transformed into a mission that has empowered thousands of women and young people. I am deeply grateful for the lessons learned, the challenges we have overcome, and the collective progress we have made toward gender equality.”Key Initiatives LaunchedThis year marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark framework for advancing gender equality and women's rights. In line with Bhutan's commitment to empowering women and girls, the National Commission for Women and Children launched the National Strategy for the Elimination of Gender-Based Violence, 2024-2028. Developed with UNFPA, UNDP, and other agencies, this strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to combat gender-based violence. The event also featured the unveiling of Comprehensive Sexuality Education Picture Books, created by the Paro College of Education as a tribute to Her Majesty Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck. These resources, inspired by Her Majesty's advocacy for reproductive rights and gender equality, will educate primary school students on rights, choices, and inclusivity.The afternoon session focused on translating gender equality commitments into action through a panel discussion with government leaders, parliamentarians, and civil society representatives, addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in promoting gender equality.Empowering Women Through Sustainable Fashion: A Stakeholder Forum for International Women’s DayMeanwhile, in a concurrent event to celebrate International Women’s Day, a stakeholder exchange forum at the Royal Textile Academy highlighted the contributions of Bhutanese women artisans to sustainable fashion. Organized by the Bhutan Chapter of the World Food Forum, in partnership with the Royal Textile Academy, Mountain Partnership, and FAO, the event will provided a platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and advocating for women’s economic participation in ethical fashion value chains. With a focus on youth engagement and climate action, the forum aligns with the UN’s International Women’s Day theme, "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." The event was part of a collaborative project by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Employment (MoICE) and FAO, which aims to strengthen high-value mountain product value chains. By merging Bhutan’s traditional weaving techniques with contemporary sustainable fashion, the initiative seeks to enhance market access and economic resilience for women artisans.The forum featured renowned Italian fashion designer Stella Jean alongside local textile experts, focusing on Bhutan's potential to connect rural women artisans to global markets. Despite Bhutan's rich textile craftsmanship, many artisans face challenges in accessing broader opportunities. This forum aims to bridge that gap, empowering women to thrive in the growing ethical fashion industry.Bhutan: A Story of Progress and PromiseBhutan has made remarkable progress in gender equality and women's empowerment, with strong policies and leadership driving the country's development. Significant achievements include increased girls' participation in education, with enrollment rates in higher secondary education now surpassing those of boys. Maternal health has also improved, with a reduced maternal mortality rate of 53 per 100,000 live births.Women’s agency has grown, as seen in their representation in leadership roles, such as the Minister for Education and the Chair of the Civil Service Commission. The integration of Life Skills Education into the monastic curriculum further supports gender equality.The UN Resident Coordinator, Karla Robin Hershey recognized the continued efforts of the Royal Government of Bhutan and its people in advancing the goals of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). The synergy between UNFPA’s mandate and Bhutan’s unique culture has been key in achieving these milestones. However, while significant progress has been made, it is important to acknowledge that challenges persist. Despite the excellent policies in place, implementation remains a critical factor in achieving true gender equality. The 13th Five-Year Plan rightly focuses on addressing youth unemployment, social protection reforms, and improvements in health, education, and lifelong learning, with particular emphasis on empowering women and girls.“It is essential that we continue to make gender equality a priority, as doing so unlocks the full potential of the country. With sustained and smart investments, Bhutan can achieve its gender dividend and continue to progress in reducing inequalities,” said Karla Robin Hershey.On behalf of the United Nations, the Resident Coordinator expressed gratitude to Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck’s leadership in shaping a future where every woman and girl can realize her full potential and reaffirmed on the collective commitment to building a world where every woman and girl can thrive, free from discrimination and violence.

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11 February 2025

Bhutanese Women in STEM Leading the Way

In Bhutan, where tradition and modernity coexist, women are breaking barriers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The country has made significant progress in gender equality and the empowerment of women. While the representation of women in STEM fields remains low, a new generation of Bhutanese women and girls are challenging these norms, proving that science and innovation are for everyone.From space engineers to climate scientists. From IT specialists to health researchers. Bhutanese women are increasingly making their mark in STEM. One such trailblazer is Dr. Pooja Lepcha, a Deputy Executive Engineer at the Division of Telecom and Space under the Government Technology (GovTech) Agency. Dr. Lepcha has played a pivotal role in Bhutan’s space journey. A graduate in electrical engineering from the College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan, she was awarded the UN/Japan Long-Term Fellowship (PNST) in 2017. This fellowship enabled her to pursue a master's degree in Space Engineering at Kyushu Institute of Technology, where she later completed her doctoral studies. Dr. Lepcha’s work on the BIRDS-2 satellite project culminated in the launch of BHUTAN-1, the country’s first satellite. She has since contributed to more than ten satellite projects while in Japan, specializing in Electrical Power Systems (EPS). She is currently leading Bhutan’s next satellite development project as the satellite systems engineer with a team of Bhutanese engineers at GovTech’s facilities. She also coordinates joint satellite projects with students from Royal University of Bhutan’s colleges. Passionate about advancing STEM education and space technology, Dr. Lepcha aspires to build in-country capacity in space systems engineering, and promote international collaboration in space, increasing Bhutan’s participation in global space initiatives.Dr. Lepcha challenges any notion that women cannot stand shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts in STEM. “Girls just need a little push firstly from their family and then from the society to be who they want to be and reach far beyond the stars. Everyone faces challenges, but how resilient you are defining who you become,” she says. “Each time a girl takes a step forward in STEM, she is not just defying stereotypes but inspiring countless other girls to believe in themselves too. Believing in yourself, especially when the whole world says otherwise, can pave a path for more girls to follow.” Executive Engineer Dechen Dema holds a similar view. Ms. Dema champions Bhutan’s leadership in sustainable energy. With an Australia Awards Scholarship, she earned a Master’s in Renewable and Sustainable Energy from Murdoch University, equipping her to lead key initiatives in renewable energy development, energy efficiency and policy planning. She organized Energy Week, Bhutan’s first webinar series on renewable energy and energy efficiency. She mobilizes resources for energy projects and contributed to Bhutan’s SDG 7 roadmap, Bhutan Energy Data Directory 2022 and Bhutan’s first Green Hydrogen Roadmap. Ms. Dema believes that STEM is more than just an academic pursuit—it’s a powerful catalyst for change, especially for women and girls. As an executive engineer working in the energy sector, she has gained valuable experience that has not only allowed her to grow professionally but have also opened doors to international collaborations, high-level forums, and leadership roles that she once thought were beyond reach. She hopes that the young girls of Bhutan today can have similar opportunities. The United Nations in Bhutan, in partnership with the government, supports initiatives like Girls in ICT Day, mentorship programs, and STEM scholarships. A four-day STEM hackathon in Gelephu introduced girls to neural networks, space technology, AI, and digital literacy. Among the participants was Kinley Pem, an 11th-grade student whose idea was shortlisted from 129 schools.“Girls are just as smart as boys and have innovative ideas to improve our communities through technology,” she says. As Bhutan continues its journey towards a knowledge-based economy, the contributions of women in STEM will be instrumental in driving sustainable development, innovation, and economic growth. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, Bhutan is ensuring that women are not just participants but leaders in shaping the country’s technological and scientific future. "When we empower girls with STEM education, we are not just changing their lives; we are changing our future towards one that is sustainable, prosperous and leaves no one behind. We are building a legacy for the next generation of women and girls" says Karla Robin Hershey, Resident Coordinator of UN Bhutan.This year marks the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science and 30 years since the Beijing Declaration. The Pact for the Future, adopted by UN Member States, reinforces commitments to breaking barriers for women in STEM.As Bhutan continues its journey towards sustainable development, ensuring equal opportunities for women in STEM will be crucial. By breaking barriers today, Bhutanese women are not just transforming their own futures—they are shaping a better tomorrow for all.

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04 December 2024

Strengthening Bhutan’s Commitment to Disability Inclusion

The inaugural meeting of the Agenda Chikha Steering Committee reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering commitment to building a society where every individual thrives with dignity and equal opportunities.The Director of the Office of Cabinet Affairs and Strategic Coordination, Chencho, stated, “Agenda Chikha reflects our commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and recognizing their inherent dignity and contributions.”Agenda Chikha is a joint initiative led by the Royal Government of Bhutan, the United Nations, civil society, and advocates. During the meeting, members pledged nearly USD 8 million to fund projects and programs aimed at promoting disability inclusion. Launched on November 13, 2024, in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck, Agenda Chikha is a shining example of collaboration, vision, and action.Karla Robin Hershey, UN Resident Coordinator in Bhutan, said, “Agenda Chikha is a movement that challenges stereotypes, empowers lives, and ensures no one is left behind.”The meeting highlighted the Agenda Chikha Compendium, presented by the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, which outlines the initiative’s vision and key components. The session also featured inspiring remarks from the United Nations Volunteers Executive Coordinator, emphasizing the transformative power of collective action.Kinley Wangchuk, Executive Director of the Disabled People’s Organisation of Bhutan, added, “Persons with disabilities are not recipients but leaders of change. Agenda Chikha proves our resolve to build a society valuing every individual equally.”As Bhutan continues this journey toward inclusivity, Agenda Chikha serves as a powerful testament to the nation’s resolve to ensure no one is left behind. Together, let us create a society where inclusivity is a reality for all. #AgendaChikha #DisabilityInclusion #LeaveNoOneBehind #Bhutan #UNBhutan

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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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