Country Comments

Bhutan is a developing nation whose population and consumption are currently sustainable. For the past 5 years, Bhutan has achieved replacement rate fertility levels and limited immigration which bodes well toward remaining sustainable. It has a young median age so its population is still increasing a little over 1% a year.

King Jigme Singye Wangchuck developed his signature Gross National Happiness index based on four pillars: sustainable development, environmental protection, cultural preservation, and good governance. Other countries have taken note, since the Himalayan kingdom is not only carbon neutral, but carbon negative. In fact, the constitution mandates that 60 percent of its landmass be maintained and protected as forest. Even with this safegaurd there continues an increase of the conversion of forests into land use for various economic purposes. Pressures from farm, industrial and other human activity caused the IUCN to recently downgrade to the danger list one of Bhutan’s most recognized National Forests. (1)

Bhutan faces a number of socio-economic challenges. Poverty and youth unemployment remain high. Healthcare is taxpayer paid and is lacking. Women represent only 11%-15% of executive level civil service and elected positions in local and state governments.

(1) https://www.sentinelassam.com/topheadlines/manas-national-park-may-again-be-in-danger-list-warns-iucn-515302