UNIteD NAtIoNS DeVeloPMeNt PRoGRAMMe BHUTAN...country. The MRG is jointly coordinated by the Gross National Happiness Commission (GNHC) and the National Environment Commission (NEC)

UNDP Bhutan | ANNUAl RePoRt 20121

tHe SUStAINABle FUtURe We WANtRePoRt 2012AnnuAl

UNIteD NAtIoNS DeVeloPMeNt PRoGRAMMe BHUTAN

2UNDP Bhutan | ANNUAl RePoRt 2012

UNDP Bhutan, as a responsive development partner, will work together with the government and people of Bhutan to enhance GNH, reduce inequalities, build resilience and empower people. UNDP will contribute to effective development results through innovative partnerships, cutting-edge global knowledge, and technical and financial resources.

The Digala Day Care Centre in Zhemgang was set up under the project jointly supported by UNDP and AGFUND (Page 18). Day care centres such as these enable children to learn and play in a safe environment while their mothers are able to devote their time on income generating activities.

Vision

RePoRt 2012AnnuAl

A. Introduction

B. Abbreviations

C. Green economic Initiatives and Disaster Mitigation

I. Integrating poverty-environment concerns into government planningII. Reducing human-wildlife conflict to sustain rural livelihood

III. Mitigating risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF)

D. ensuring Inclusive and equitable Development

IV. Social Protection: Ensuring safety for allV. Transforming Lives: Stories about real people

VI. Conserving traditional varieties with modern opportunitiesVII. Progress on the MDGs

e. enhancing Democratic Governance

VIII. Strengthening media and civic education to enhance democracy in BhutanIX. Taking the engendered path

X. Advocacy and HIV Prevention amongst Bhutan’s vulnerable populations

F. event Highlights of 2012

G. Resources and Partnerships

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Women in Bumthang harvesting buckwheat. The ILCCP (Page 20) has provided opportunities for local communities through incentives and market opportunities while also promoting the conservation of traditional crop varieties such as the buckwheat.


A. INtRoDUCtIoNBhutan continued to make significant development progress in 2012 despite numerous challenges. While Bhutan is a world leader in the conservation of both its environmental and cultural resources, the country faces increasing pressure from the perils of climate change, to which it is disproportionately vulnerable due to its location in the Himalayas and the increased melting of glaciers.The fact that much of its population lives in mountain valleys through which glacial waters flow further magnifies the country’s vulnerability to climate change impacts. Although factors outside of its control continue to shape Bhutan’s environs, the country has made conscious efforts to deal with many of these issues through sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and mitigation.

UNDP continues to support Bhutan’s pursuit to develop in a manner that is truly green and inclusive. Bhutan’s holistic development policies are in sync with

UNDP’s theme of ‘The Sustainable Future We Want’ - a future collectively desired by all levels of Bhutanese citizens.

Sustainability remains an overarching issue, affecting all of its development goals and challenges. To this end, UNDP supports the country’s holistic development paradigm and addresses the needs of people in all corners of the country through its focus areas of Democratic Governance and Gender Mainstreaming, Energy, Environment and Disaster Management, and Poverty Reduction and Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Each of these areas is essential in the pursuit of sustainable and inclusive development.

In 2012, UNDP continued to support Bhutan in its efforts to reduce the threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) from a potentially dangerous glacial lake. UNDP supported risk reduction measures such as lowering of water levels in Thorthormi Lake, establishment of an early warning system and

community based disaster risk mitigation (CBDRM) in the downstream valley. This ensures the safety and prosperity of many communities living downstream.

Two notable interventions to promote indigenous varieties of crop and livestock through the Integrated Livestock and Crop Conservation Project (ILCCP) were also accomplished in 2012. The ILCCP has not only revived crop and livestock resources but has also enhanced rural livelihoods through innovative income generation activities.

UNDP Bhutan has enhanced social protection by building on the country’s rich ‘Kidu’ (welfare) system, ensuring that the same extends to all levels of society including senior citizens, people living in remote rural areas, children with special needs, and the large youth population in the country - many of whom are now entering the workforce. UNDP has also helped train government officials in Gender Responsive Planning and Budgeting to ensure more equitable


distribution of resources not only among the country’s men and women but also across different age and social groups.

UNDP continues to work with partners at the regional, national, and local levels. In 2012, with the support of the South Asia Multi-Country Global Fund, UNDP supported two studies viz. Men having Sex with Men and transgender population size estimation of those most at risk to HIV, and a study of stigma and discrimination experienced among these populations in healthcare settings. The results will create rights based strategies for people living with HIV/AIDS and ensure universal access to prevention, care and support, and treatment services.

UNDP also worked with the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGoB) to formulate its Human Settlement Policy and to initiate an MDG Acceleration Framework to address the country’s growing rate of youth unemployment. Furthermore, UNDP also worked with civil society organizations to enhance education on and understanding of media and democracy in the country as the second national elections approach.

UNDP also supported programmes on poverty alleviation and empowerment of women in rural areas. These projects aim to ensure decentralization of the country’s governance structures and equitable distribution of income generation opportunities.

Overall, UNDP continues to focus on programmes and policies that will ensure equity and sustainability for all. UNDP will contribute to effective development results through innovative partnerships, cutting-edge global knowledge, and technical and financial resources.

UNDP in Bhutan continues to look forward and focus on programmes and policies that will ensure equity and sustainability for all of the country’s people.


AGFUND Arab Gulf Program for DevelopmentAPCoM Asia Pacific Coalition on Male Sexual HealthAPRC Asia-Pacific Regional CentreAusAID Australian Government Overseas Aid ProgramBCMD Bhutan Centre for Media and DemocracyBNeW Bhutan Network of Elected WomenBKADG Beekeepers Association of Doban GewogBtFeC Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental ConservationCB-DRM Community-Based Disaster Risk ManagementCCA Common Country AssessmentCo Country OfficeCSo Civil Society OrganizationDHMS Department of Hydro-Meteorological ServicesDIPD Danish Institute for Parties and DemocracieseCP Environment, Climate Change and povertyeWS Early Warning SystemFYP Five Year PlanGAo Gewog Administrative OfficersGDP Gross Domestic ProductGeF Global Environment FacilityGloF Glacial Lake Outburst FloodGRB Gender Responsive BudgetingHIV/AIDS Human Immuno Deficiency Virus/Acquired Immuno

Deficiency SyndromeHWC Human Wildlife ConflictJSP Joint Support ProgrammelDCF Least Developed Countries Fund

B. ABBReVIAtIoNSMAF MDG Acceleration FrameworkMDG Millennium Development GoalMoHCA Ministry of Home and Cultural AffairsMRG Mainstreaming Reference GroupMSM Men having Sex with MenNACP National HIV/AIDS & STI Control ProgrammeNAPA National Adaptation Programme of ActionNCWC National Commission for Women and ChildrenNGo Non-Governmental OrganizationPeI Poverty-Environment InitiativeRGoB Royal Government of BhutanStI Sexually Transmitted InfectionsUNAIDS United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDSUNCDF United Nations Capital Development FundUNCt United Nations Country TeamUNDAF United Nations Development Assistance FrameworkUNDeF United Nations Democracy FundUNDP United Nations Development ProgrammeUNeP United Nations Environment ProgrammeUNICeF United Nations Children’s FundUN Women United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment

of WomenUSD United States DollarsWCD Wildlife Conservation Division (of the Ministry of Agriculture &

Forests)WWF World Wildlife Fund


From over 2,700 glacial lakes in the country, 25 have been found to be potentially dangerous. The Thorthormi Lake is one such threat.


C. GReeN eCoNoMIC INItIAtIVeS AND DISASteR MItIGAtIoN

Since 2006, the RGoB has taken up the complex and challenging task of mainstreaming environmental issues into its development policies, plans and programmes.

In 2008, Poverty-Environment Initiative (PEI) supported by UNDP and UN Environment Programme (UNEP) provided technical guidance to the RGoB through production of mainstreaming guidelines, concept notes, and mapping tools. Training and capacity building on Environment, Climate Change and Poverty (ECP) mainstreaming have been conducted in collaboration with AusAID and the Griffith University in Australia. To support these endeavors and ensure consistency within ECP policies and planning, a Joint Support Programme (JSP) was formulated

in partnership with UNDP/UNEP PEI, UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Representation Office of Denmark. The JSP has successfully ensured mainstreaming ECP concerns into the policies, plans, and programmes of all sectors and at all levels of the government.

By 2011, an informal helpdesk facility, the ‘Mainstreaming Reference Group’ (MRG) was put together to fulfill the RGoB’s vision of sustainable development as well as Bhutan’s commitment to remain carbon neutral for all times to come. The MRG’s main focus is to undertake a detailed analysis of RGoB’s policies and planning processes to identify opportunities to integrate ECP issues and mainstreaming approaches. Additionally it would advocate and promote these through the

I. INteGRAtING PoVeRtY-eNVIRoNMeNt CoNCeRNS INto GoVeRNMeNt PolICIeS, PlANS AND PRoGRAMMeS

Highlights:

I. 2011, Joint Support Programme (JSP) formulated with UNDP/UNEP, UNCDF and the Representation Office of Denmark

II. 2011, MRG established to support mainstreaming requirements in planning and policy making

III. 2012, the MRG screened and made recommendations to seven government policies

IV. 20 Dzongkhag (district) level trainings conducted on ECP mainstreaming

V. Ministry of Finance commits to incorporate gender and ECP concerns into government budgetary agencies

VI. Selected strategies and priorities for ECP mainstreaming will be incorporated into the 11th FYP programme implemented from July 2013


sensitization of decision-makers and capacity development in all agencies during the implementation of the 11th Five Year Plan (FYP).

The MRG provides advice on ECP mainstreaming practices and policy requirements and supports mid-term review of the 11th FYP and documentation of best practices with regard to ECP mainstreaming. In addition, the MRG also works towards the institutionalization of these issues into the curriculum of tertiary level educational institutions in the country. The MRG is jointly coordinated by the Gross National Happiness Commission (GNHC) and the National Environment Commission (NEC).

The MRG had a good deal of success in the first year of its operation in 2012. The group grew from 10 members to 19 with additional members from the government and the academia. The MRG also started identifying critical decision windows within policy formulation stages in government planning, and to create new policy formulation requirements to ensure that government policies are in sync with environmental mainstreaming standards. The MRG was vested with the important task to review and screen all draft policies submitted to the government. In 2012, the MRG screened seven government policies and recommended changes, mainly from a pro-poor and environmental sustainability perspective.

The MRG conducted trainings in all 20 Dzongkhags (districts) for government planning and technical officers to help them identify issues and integrate ECP perspectives into their planning and implementation. Sectoral and local government officials, representatives of NGOs, corporate and private sector were also trained on the concepts and application of ECP mainstreaming tools, including environment overview and Strategic Environmental Assessment.

Recognizing that Poverty-Environment mainstreaming was particularly important within budgeting mechanisms, the Ministry of Finance has committed to incorporate gender and ECP concerns into government budgetary agencies. In addition, future strategies and priorities for ECP mainstreaming have been mapped out and some of these will be incorporated into the 11th FYP which will be implemented from July 2013.

The MRG has been vested with the important task to review and screen all draft policies submitted to the government.


Bhutan is home to one of the most bio-diverse natural ecosystems in the world, thanks to its high environmental conservation standards. The country is a primary steward of one of the world’s most exceptional mega flora and fauna, many of which are endangered elsewhere in the

Hindu Kush-Himalayan region. About 51% of Bhutan’s total land area has been set aside for conservation and its Constitution mandates 60% forest cover for all times. Environmental conservation based on the principles of sustainability is central to the government’s development philosophy

II. ReDUCING HUMAN-WIlDlIFe CoNFlICt (HWC) to SUStAIN RURAl lIVelIHooD

Forestry field officer demonstrates the trip alarm to community members.of Gross National Happiness. UNDP has supported the country’s environmental initiatives since 1979.

As an agrarian-based society, over 60% of Bhutan’s population is dependent on crop or livestock production for their livelihood. Most farming communities are

Highlights:

I. Over 60% of the population depends on agriculture for livelihood

II. Human-Wildlife Conflicts contribute to reduced health and school attendance

III. HWC Management Strategy developed and implemented across Bhutan

IV. UNDP and BTFEC set up HWC Endowment Fund


victims of wildlife encroachment. Every year large areas of crops and domestic stock are lost to wildlife predation. Sometimes homes are destroyed and people attacked by wild animals. Such incidences have compromised livelihoods and resulted in loss of lives and the consequent abandonment of farmlands. These damages have serious implications on food security. Human-Wildlife Conflicts have also contributed to reduced nutrition due to losses in agricultural productivity and lower school attendance leading to anti-conservation attitudes within the affected communities.

UNDP, in partnership with the Wildlife Conservation Division (WCD) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests and other development partners, drafted the Bhutan Human Wildlife Conflict (HWC) Management Strategy in 2008. It focused on human welfare, poverty alleviation, and wildlife conservation. The strategy was developed upon realizing the importance of addressing these conflicts to maintain the sensitive harmony

between people and wildlife.

Following the endorsement of this strategy in 2009, UNDP, in partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation (BTFEC), supported the implementation of the strategy with its multi-pronged interventions that include electric fencing, establishment of sound and light repellents, formation of guarding teams, promotion of alternative livelihoods to offset losses, community based compensation schemes and the establishment of the HWC Endowment Fund.

Human-Wildlife Conflicts are complex and require interventions that are sensitive to the needs of ecosystems as well as the society at large. Failure to balance these needs may lead to ecological disaster and potentially devastating impacts on the survival of humans, animals and ecosystems as a whole, eventually resulting in the loss of community support necessary for the intervention to

Every year large areas of crops and domestic stock are lost to wildlife pre-dation. Sometimes homes are destroyed and people attacked by wild animals.


succeed. The electric fencing intervention presents a good success of investment at the local level through which HWC affected communities have reaped benefits and also demonstrated community ownership in managing the successful operation and maintenance of solar fences. Therefore, the pilot initiative presents a good case for replication and up-scaling in the affected areas across the country.

The HWC Strategy has the potential to become a major contributing factor to enhancing food security, alleviating poverty, reducing drudgery for vulnerable groups and various other social and psychological effects on the communities, which will translate into positive attitudes towards conservation.

To monitor and assess the impact of these interventions on beneficiaries, the WCD will initiate a study in 2013 covering seven gewogs (blocks) of Singhe and Lhamoizingkha in Sarpang district, Norbugang and Tashicholing in Samtse, Langchenphug in Samdrup Jongkhar, Ura in Bumthang, and Dangchu in Wangduephodrang.

Positive outcomes of electric fencing:

• 73 % of respondents reported an increased yield by 11%

• Overall respondents saved 110 nights of guarding per household equivalent to saving USD 208


In 1994 Lugge lake in Lunana ruptured and 18 million cubic meters of water swiftly passed through the valleys causing 23 deaths in Punakha as well as extensive damage to properties such as agriculture land and other infrastructures. From over 2,700 glacial lakes identified in the country, 25 are found to be potentially dangerous due to accelerated melting of the glaciers as a result of Climate Change. Bhutan places disaster mitigation from GLOF as a national priority.

As a follow up to the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA 2006), Bhutan accessed USD 3.5 million from the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) and mobilized USD 3.9 million as co-financing from various other sources to implement the project to mitigate GLOF risk from Lunana. During the period 2008-2012, the water level in the high risk Thorthormi Lake was lowered by 5.04m against the set target of five meters. The task of lowering the water level of Thorthormi involved

Over 300 local men and women, and armed forces were engaged in artificially lowering the level of the Thorthormi Lake by over 5 meters over the course of three years.

III. MItIGAtING RISK oF GlACIAl lAKe oUtBURSt FlooDS (GloF)


transportation of tools, implements and food items by horses and yaks. It was impossible to use heavy machinery not only due to transportation challenges but also because of the highly sensitive geological site conditions.

Over 300 local men and women were engaged in the first two years of the project. These men and women had to toil in harsh weather conditions, often submerged knee-deep in icy water, which hampered progress of work at site. Mitigation works were carried out between July and September of each year due to the inaccessibility to the site during other months. Recruiting workforce was a challenge due to intensive labour and the site location. The project relied on the assistance of the Royal Bhutan Army to finally meet the target to reduce the lake level by 5 meters.

At the same time, to ensure safety of downstream communities, a state-of-the art early warning system (EWS) was installed along the Phochu sub-basin where 17 siren towers and six hydrometeorology stations were installed along the valley. The EWS installed is considered to be well tailored to Bhutanese conditions, robust and versatile. However it has yet to prove its robustness through some actual GLOF events. The GLOF EWS is a first of its kind that produces real-time information and offers the ability to be monitored over the internet. The present

EWS set-up is seen to be a catalyst for the up gradation of a hydrometeorological monitoring network for the whole nation. It sets standards and can be expanded by ‘plugging-in’ additional river basins to the existing system. Soon the EWS system will be expanded to the Mochu sub basin.

Local leaders and communities were also trained on the potential threat of GLOF and increase resilience and response capacity through the CBDRM process, where communities were involved in preparing the disaster management and contingency plans for their respective communities. The piloting of the community-based disaster risk management (CBDRM) is seen as a stepping stone for national roll-out of the planning process to all the remaining Dzongkhags.

The project proved successful and experiences were useful in the design of the Disaster Management Act, which was adopted by the Parliament in February 2013. The Act provides a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework on disaster risk management and the development of a comprehensive participatory community-based disaster risk management planning methodology (CBDRM). Results from this intensive project will have long-term benefits, providing the much-needed early warning and safety for downstream communities. The capacity of district authorities, local leaders and communities


has been enhanced significantly through various tools and approaches. Local communities in Lunana, Punakha and Wangdue and those living further downstream can now sleep with a sense of safety.

Overall, the project set-up, with an integrated approach connecting upstream technical mitigation efforts with a basin-wide EWS and downstream awareness and capacity building efforts, is found to be commendable. The close collaboration among Department of Disaster Management, Department of Geology and Mines and Department of Hydrometrology Services in planning, management and execution has clearly created synergies. Based on these valuable experiences and lessons learnt, this project should provide valuable input to similar future projects in the world. As part of wider networking and knowledge sharing, an International Conference on GLOF was held in Paro in December 2012, where representatives from various countries, agencies and research institutes involved in GLOF risk mitigation came together.

The installation of EWS has ensured the safety of downstream communities.


GloF project highlights:

• Of 2,700 glacial lakes in Bhutan, 25 are potentially dangerous

• USD 3.5 million was accessed from the LDC Fund for the project

• Over 300 local men and women were engaged in the first two years of the project

• The lake’s water level was brought down by 5 meters in 2012


Change comes to lunana Gewog

Located at an altitude of 5,400 meters, Lunana Gewog (sub-district) is a 10-day walk from the nearest road head. Without road connectivity, the region remains isolated with its arcane culture and tradition intact. The gewog consists of some of the most remote settlements in the country with semi-nomadic inhabitants, dependent on yaks and sheep for their livelihood. In recent years, the highlanders have been able to supplement their income through commercial harvesting of Cordyceps sinensis, a fungus known for its medicinal value in the international market.

The UNDP-led project to lower the water level of Thorthormi Lake has come as a boon to the people of Lunana area. Not only has the project ensured greater safety for the local people but has also benefitted them economically. Local people found seasonal employment during project implementation and the project paid more than three times the national minimum wage to workers. In addition, they were also provided with insurance and a qualified doctor was stationed at the project site to provide medical services and support local communities in the region. The communities were also able to generate additional income by providing porter and pony services, transporting equipment, goods and supplies to and from the project site.

Local leaders and communities in Lunana were trained on disaster management including the functions and operations of the EWS. As a direct result of these supports, the people of Lunana are today prepared for the threat of GLOF. For now, they at least enjoy peace of mind.

1500 horses and yaks were engaged in the transportation of 70-80 tons of equipment, supplies and food to the GLOF sites.


Much like other developing countries on the path to modernization, Bhutan too is confronted with a number of challenges. In fact, the country is already witnessing emerging social problems such as inequality, urban-rural disparities, youth unemployment, people with disabilities, a rise in the +60 population, food insecurity and children with special needs. With Bhutan’s development emphasis on inclusive and equitable growth, it made sense to pursue strategic direction and a structured approach to establish social protection policies as the next step.

To this end, UNDP supported

the Social Protection Project in Bhutan with technical guidance to review the existing social protection system, highlight gaps and vulnerabilities, and focus on policy and implementation challenges that hinder relevant agencies (government and non-government) in implementing social protection programmes. This project support played a catalytic role in gaining momentum in bringing together organizations involved in the delivery of social protection schemes.

This project draws on experiences and expertise from His Majesty’s Royal Kidu Office, NGOs and GNHC as well as from UNDP and UNICEF

D. eNSURING INClUSIVe AND eqUItABle DeVeloPMeNt

IV. SoCIAl PRoteCtIoN: eNSURING SAFetY FoR All

The Draktsho Vocational Training Center for Special Children provides skills training to children and youth with special needs.


the traditional ‘Kidu’ (welfare) system

Bhutan has always been a welfare state.The people have enjoyed free education, health, water and sanitation amongst other development services. The concept of Social Protection in Bhutan is not new. In fact, the age old traditional community-based support system and the Kidu (welfare) system of the benevolent Monarchs are a strong indication of the presence of social protection initiatives in Bhutan. However, there were no organizational linkages amongst these stakeholders, and most work was carried out in isolation, resulting in duplication and overlap of similar programmes.

in Bhutan. The project is implemented by relevant CSOs working for the most vulnerable communities and people. The GNHC is the main implementing partner, responsible for managing the project.

Social Protection Project Priority Areas

• AccordingtotheBhutanLabourForceSurvey of 2012, youth unemployment dropped to 7.3% in 2012 against 12.9% in 2009. The survey revealed that female unemployment was higher (2.2%) than male (1.9%) unemployment. It also showed a pattern of high unemployment in the early age groups, indicating that youths entering the labour market with certain level of education are available for work or seeking jobs but lacked required skills needed for immediate employment. The government has placed greater

emphasis on measures to improve the employability of youth by providing various kinds of skills training.

• Over60populationconstitutes6.9% of the total population. This population is rising and is projected to increase to 10.1% by 2030. The project supported the Royal Society for Senior Citizens, a local CSO to conduct a baseline survey of senior citizens of Bhutan. This was a first of its kind survey conducted to understand and gauge the needs and aspirations of elderly people. The findings of the survey will be used to plan and initiate new programmes benefiting all senior citizens in Bhutan.

• UNDPcollaborateswiththelocal CSO DRAKTSHO Vocational Training Centre for Special Children by providing equipment and

His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck speaks to people.

Photo: Mediam

ax Archive


the Conditional Cash transfer (CCt) Scheme

As a pilot project, the CCT scheme was provided to vulnerable girls and youths from disadvantaged communities for livelihood support. The CCT scheme to vulnerable rural/urban youth groups aims to supplement the national effort and further explore this model as a strategy to address youth vulnerabilities and other related youth issues.

To gain insights, South-South collaboration in the region to enhance knowledge, expertise and capacity of relevant officials on targeting vulnerable groups was conducted to ensure successful implementation of the CCT and appropriate social protection programmes.

Social protection mechanisms are expected to be further strengthened in the country through a number of initiatives. UNDP anticipates the Rural Education Foundation to set up a Trust Fund and will support the government in formulating the Social Protection Policy. However, more work needs to be done to explore possible partnerships and collaboration amongst relevant CSOs, government agencies, the Royal Kidu Office, and international organizations for consolidated efforts to implement targeted Social Protection initiatives to achieve measurable and sustainable results.

Financial support from the CCT scheme has enabled young children to learn vocational skills and continue their formal education.

machineries in supporting skills training of children and youths with special needs for livelihood and employment. Currently there are 96 children and youths (male – 60, female - 36) at the two DRAKTSHO centres in Trashigang and Thimphu dzongkhags. The project also supports 30 children from the under privileged background through the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) to continue their vocational skills training.


Women get the show started

Earlier, like other women in her village, Lhadon worked in the fields, cultivating maize and buckwheat. Her life was an endless cycle of daily chores consisting of farming, cooking meals and looking after her children. She neither had access to cash nor the means to earn it. Today she is one of the only two certified tailors in Langdurbi, thanks to the support from the Poverty Alleviation

Lhadon with her new skill and tailoring unit.

and Empowerment of Rural Women Project.

The project provided Lhadon with tailoring training and a sewing machine. Today, she repairs garments and makes traditional attires. Her clients comprise neighbours, friends and children with torn uniforms. Although she enjoys tailoring, unfortunately people in her village cannot afford to pay her all the time.

The project also established day care centres for children in Lhadon’s village, making it possible for her to join the Langdurbi Women’s Group. While her children attend day care, Lhadon has started a home garden where she grows a variety of vegetables.

Along with other women in the group, she also makes ginger candy and bamboo shoot pickle. The sales of these domestic products bring her and other members of the group the much-needed cash to expand their small business.

Lhadon dreams of buying a drier to process surplus vegetables for sale in winter.

V. tRANSFoRMING lIVeS: StoRIeS ABoUt ReAl PeoPle

The Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment of Rural Women Project, jointly funded by the Arab Gulf Program for Development (AGFUND) and UNDP, aims to alleviate poverty in vulnerable communities in the country. The project is implemented by a local NGO, Tarayana Foundation and targets Bhutan’s women in the poverty stricken Dzongkhags of Zhemgang and Samtse.

The selected communities have no access to road and electricity and villagers walk eight hours to the nearest commercial hub to sell local produce and purchase basic essentials. The project has strengthened economic and social capacity of rural women, generated employment and expanded income opportunities for the community by improving productivity, diversification and marketing in the agricultural sector and traditional handicrafts industry. This was achieved through the provision of a small micro-finance scheme to the project beneficiaries.


Hard work reaps hard cash

A few years ago, Pema Thinley, 23, lived with his family in a thatched bamboo hut in Digala, a small village of 31 households and 178 people. As seasons changed, he would replace the banana leaves to prevent rain from leaking into his home. Although in the throes of abject poverty, Pema did not stop dreaming big.

Through the Poverty Alleviation and Empowerment of Rural Women Project’s micro-finance scheme, Pema purchased a mule and worked as a porter, carrying various loads for the current road construction project. He walks thrice a week for five hours to different road sites making deliveries. From these trips, he makes Nu 10,000 (USD 200) a month.

Pema uses this money to purchase basic amenities such as rice, cooking oil, salt, and seasonal vegetable for his family. He proudly announces that he cleared his loan installments and now keeps his entire earnings.

An active young man, Pema was also

trained as a carpenter for the construction of resilient houses in his village through the project. Today he lives in a stronger house with corrugated galvanized iron (CGI) sheets for a roof, a far cry from his thatched bamboo hut. Pema has also helped construct homes for the entire village. “Our homes are real houses now,” he says.

When asked to describe life before the project intervention, he says, there was no economic activity in the village then. People would grow maize to sustain themselves. Today, he says, Digala has come a long way. People have learned new skills, and women are more dynamic and take the lead in several project activities.

“I am lucky my family has a home. We have money and we eat better,” says Pema.

Once the road comes through and he has saved enough money, Pema plans to undergo training at a Traditional Handicrafts Centre to improve his woodwork with paint. He dreams of starting a small handicrafts shop in Digala someday.

Pema Thinley hopes to one day paint his wood products.


VI. CoNSeRVING tRADItIoNAl VARIetIeS WItH MoDeRN oPPoRtUNItIeS

Contributed by Sutharin Koonphol, UNDP Thailand

The project was initiated in 2009 by UNDP/GEF to support food security and self-sufficiency through the maintenance of adequate levels of indigenous agro-biodiversity. The buckwheat utilization and conservation effort in Bumthang under the Integrated Livestock and Crop Conservation Project (ILCCP) has multiple objectives of food security, income generation and conservation of buckwheat heritage. The project aims to ensure value addition to traditional varieties and breeds by improving productivity, developing markets, and facilitating market accessibility to indigenous agriculture produces.

Phurba and other members of the Buckwheat Group.


One of the happiest moments in Phurba’s life was preparing the traditional buckwheat noodles and pancakes for the Royal Wedding in 2011. “It was very special to see the King and the Queen in real life and to actually do something for them. I was so proud that our local buckwheat was valued by others and found a place on the royal table,” Phurba said.

For her, this almost forgotten traditional crop now brings new opportunities. It all began five years ago, in 2007, when the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests sought traditional crop varieties from all regions in Bhutan. They discovered that the staple crop of Bumthang, the buckwheat was declining. Buckwheat was disappearing since road access reached the area. Farmers had begun to turn to cash crops that were easier to sell, especially potatoes, selling them to buy rice and other essential food items.

Phurba and 14 fellow farmers formed the Bumthang Buckwheat Group under the ILCCP supported by the local/district agricultural office. Through this support, the group learned more about the health benefits of the organic buckwheat that they grew up with and had taken for granted and as well as how it can enhance their income.

New Skills and Market opportunities

It took Phurba and her friends several attempts to perfect the art of baking buckwheat cupcakes. This is one of the new skills they acquired since forming the group. With the support of the UNDP/GEF ILCCP and the National Biodiversity Centre, the District Agriculture Office worked with the group on product development and diversification like cakes, biscuits, and pizzas, to add value and increase the menu of existing products such as buckwheat noodles and pancakes.

The group opened an outlet in Chokhor, Bumthang, to sell their products in 2011 with 40% investment from the UNDP-GEF supported ILCCP and 60% from the Departments of Agriculture and Agriculture and Marketing Cooperatives. The project supported the procurement of baking equipment and provided skills training. Additionally they gathered scientific information on the health benefits of buckwheat and disseminated this information to attract interest from the wider public.

The price of buckwheat has increased three

folds since 2007. The sale of buckwheat flour, cakes and biscuits has brought a steady income to the group. The outlet has become well known among the local community and health conscious people far and wide. It has also received several visits from members of the royal family. The outlet is highly frequented during the summer season, bringing in up to Nu 3,000-4,000 (USD 50-60) per day. During the lean period, the outlet earns an income of Nu 500-600 (USD 10-12) per day.

The group has now expanded to include 30 contract farmers to supply buckwheat grains. They hope to be able to expand further to ensure a steady supply

Perfecting the art of baking cupcakes. The ILCCP supports the Bumthang Buckwheat Group on product development and diversification.


of buckwheat to meet the growing market demand. For now the group has developed more than 15 products, including popular buckwheat husk pillows. With support from the project, Phurba and her friends have also traveled to biodiversity expos and fairs around the country to promote their products. They have also provided training to other farmer groups in the nearby valley of Ura and in Haa in western Bhutan.

Security and Sustainability

It is not all about prices and profits but also about the sense of pride and security that the buckwheat farmers have gained. While farmers are not shifting completely away from cash crops like potatoes, with the introduction of new market opportunities for traditional crops like buckwheat, they can more easily diversify their income sources.

The project provided seed money of Nu. 50,000 (USD 943) to the group. In addition, each member contributes Nu 100 (USD 2) a month to this endowment, which has now increased to Nu 90,000 (USD 1,700). Last year, each member received Nu 14,000 (USD 264) of the profit, after deducting operational costs.

The endowment also provides grievance loan to members. In future they plan to extend the loan facility to support their children’s education. In an effort to sustain and create opportunities for more farmers, the project also helped set up a community seed bank to conserve buckwheat and other traditional varieties of crops in Bumthang valley.

“We distributed free buckwheat seeds to farmers wanting to grow the crop again. We also plan to introduce a price guarantee scheme to our buckwheat contract farmers to provide better incentives,” noted

Gaylong, the District Agricultural Officer.

Access and Benefit Sharing for the Future

The buckwheat of Bumthang exemplifies the biodiversity wealth of Bhutan, which is intertwined with local livelihoods. It is one of the traditional varieties that the project, under the leadership of the National Biodiversity Centre of Bhutan, is attempting to conserve through provision of incentives and market opportunities via supply chain development in 18 sites spanning eight districts of Bhutan. Other traditional crop and livestock varieties promoted under this effort included barley, soy bean, rice, yak, poultry and horses. The project targets some of the poorest communities in the most rugged and remote regions of Bhutan.

The sustainable utilization of resources can help ensure the equitable access as well as benefit sharing of the country’s rich resources.Conserving agro-biodiversity within the broader context of enhancing food security and self-sufficiency is a key outcome for the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests towards the RGOB’s 11th FYP (2013-2018). Benefits should also accrue in the form of business, employment and capacity building opportunities through the discovery and development of new medicines or agrochemicals, thereby providing a rationale for preservation of the biological resources and the genetic material they contain.

According to Bhutanese belief, buckwheat is one of the nine essential grains (Dru Na Gu) that Lord Buddha gave to mankind. The ILCCP, which came to an end in 2012, has helped provide opportunities to enable the conservation of these sacred gifts and the biodiversity wealth of Bhutan.


With less than 1,000 days before the end of 2015, Bhutan continues to make progress towards achieving the MDGs to meet the needs of its citizens, especially the poor. UNDP remains committed to supporting the RGOB in creating favorable conditions necessary for happiness within its quest to fulfill the MDGs and the planning for its 11th FYP, the theme of which is Self-Reliance and Inclusive Green Socio-Economic Development.

Bhutan is also playing a significant role in the international dialogue on the Post 2015 discussion, particularly after the MDGs will come to an end. With its unique development paradigm of GNH, Bhutan continues to make meaningful contributions to the development dialogue in international forums.

In April 2012, Bhutan hosted a meeting at the UN headquarters in New York to discuss a New Development Paradigm (NDP) with the aim of creating development goals that focus on wellbeing, happiness and sustainability as an alternative to the current paradigm which continues to lead to economic and ecological crises.

In July, a Steering Committee, headed by Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley and an International Experts Working Group for the development of this NDP was established by Royal Edict to create alternatives to the MDGs after 2015 that can be applied at the international level. The country is also taking part in nationwide consultations towards the Post-2015 agenda with the goal of bringing in

While near parity of girls to boys at the primary and secondary educations have been achieved, gender

parity at the tertiary level is yet to be realized.

VII. PRoGReSS oN tHe MDGS


voices from all levels of society.Noteworthy progress has been made with the country’s youth employment issues, and in particular the status of its children. Bhutan has achieved three related MDG targets:

• Reduced the proportion of underweight children below the age of five to just over 11% (from 38% in 1989)1

• Reached well over 100% gross enrollment rate at the primary level (up from just 55% in 1990)2

• Achieved near parity of girls to boys at the primary and secondary school levels (99% and 103.5%, up from 69% and 43% respectively in 1991)3.

• Additionally, the goal of providing sustainable access to improved water and sanitation for its population has been reached, with less than 2% of households that still don’t have access4.

A few MDG targets still need attention

including the proportion of the population living beneath the minimum level of dietary energy consumption (5.9% in 2007)5, the ratio of females to males in tertiary institutes (71% in 2012)6, the spread of HIV/AIDS, and the increasing level of unemployment amongst youth (7.3% for ages 15-24)7. In regards to the last target, an MDG Acceleration Framework (MAF) has been outlined towards creating an action plan to reduce youth unemployment to the RGOB and senior policy planners. UNDP has played an integral role in the planning and implementation of this MAF initiative having supported the RGOB’s bottleneck analysis, workshops and consultations, as well as helping develop the Action Plan.

The lack of literacy and education amongst women, especially in rural areas, may hinder Bhutan from reaching its ambitious infant and under-5 mortality MDG targets, due in part to a lack of

1 Nutrition at a Glance Fact Sheet.Bhutan. The World Bank.2Bhutan Living Standards Survey 2012. NSB, RGoB& Asian Development Bank, 2013. P.15.3 Bhutan Living Standards Survey 2012. NSB, RGoB& Asian Development Bank, 2013. P.16.4 Bhutan Poverty Analysis Report 2012. NSB RGoB&The World Bank, 2013, p.19.5 Bhutan Poverty Analysis Report 2012. NSB RGoB&The World Bank, 2013, p.10.6Bhutan Annual Education Statistics, 2012. Policy and Planning Division, Ministry of Education, 2013, p.77 Bhutan Labour Force Survey Report 2012, MoLHR, 2013, p.2.

In July, a Steering Committee, led by Bhutan’s Prime Minister and an International Experts Working Group (IEWG) for the development of this NDP, was established by Royal edict, with the aim of creating alternatives to the MDGs after 2015 that can be applied at the international level. The country is also taking part in nation-wide consultations towards the Post-2015 agenda, with the goal of bringing in voices from all levels of society.


knowledge about early childhood survival and poor hygiene and nutrition for infants. While maternal health has improved, antenatal care for women still remains lacking, especially in remote areas8. While incidence of HIV/AIDS is relatively low in the country, a lack of information and understanding of the epidemic and its prevention, care, and treatment remains an area of concern.

An additional challenge that remains in Bhutan is how levels of depth can be reached in addition to the breadth that is being achieved. Inclusivity, equity and quality remain dimensions that need to be addressed to achieve real and sustainable progress in the long term. For example, while poverty is on the decline, urban poverty and income inequality have risen in the country. Gender issues are still apparent and women continue to have low literacy rates (less than 50%), low political

representation, and gender-based violence towards girls and women remains alarmingly high.

Despite these challenges, overall Bhutan continues to make significant progress in reaching the MDGS. A further area of success is the 8th MDG: Developing a Global Partnership for Development. Access to technology continues to improve in the country. Democracy and decentralization are taking roots, with national elections to be held in 2013. UNDP has played a significant role in these areas through its support for development of Local Governance, Media and Democracy. Overall, the country continues to both improve its status in terms of development as well as contribute in a significant way towards how development is defined and understood at the global level.

MDG related targets achieved: • Reduced the proportion of

underweight children below the age of five to just over 11% from 38% in 1989

• 100% gross enrollment rate at the Primary level up from just 55% in 1990

• Near parity of girls to boys at the Primary and Secondary school levels 99% and 103.5%, up from 69% and 43% respectively in 1991

8 Bhutan Poverty Analysis Report 2012. NSB RGoB&The World Bank, 2013, p.18.


Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Progress in Bhutan

(for which data is available)

Goals and targets(from the Millennium Declaration) Indicators for monitoring progress

Goal 1: eradicate extreme poverty and hunger

Target 1.A: Halve, between 1990 and 2015, the proportion of people whose income is less than one dollar a day

1.1 Proportion of population below $1 (PPP) per day (2015 Target: 20%)2000: 36.3%2007: 23.2% 2012: 12.0% ACHIEVED

Target 1.B: Halve, between 1990 and 2015, the proportion ofpeople who suffer from hunger

1.2 Prevalence of underweight children under-five years of age1990: 38%2000: 19% 2012: 12.7% ACHIEVED

1.3 Proportion of population below minimum level of dietary energy consumption (2015 Target: 1.9%)2003: 3.8%2007: 5.9%2012: 2.8% ON TRACK

Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education

Target 2.A: Ensure that, by 2015, children everywhere, boys and girls alike, will be able to complete a full course of primary schooling

2.1 Net enrolment ratio in primary education (2015 Target: 100%)2000: 62%2012: 96% ON TRACK

2.2 Proportion of pupils starting grade 1 who reach last grade of primary (2015 Target: 100%)1990: 63%2012: 98% ON TRACK


Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women

Target 3.A: Eliminate gender disparity in primary and secondary education, preferably by 2005, and in all levels of education no later than 2015

3.1 Ratio of girls to boys in primary education (2015 Target: 100%)1991: 69%2012: 99% ACHIEVED

3.2 Ratio of girls to boys in secondary education (2015 Target: 100%)1991: 43%2012: 107% ACHIEVED

3.3 Ratio of females to males in tertiary institutes (2015 Target: 100%)1991: 12%2012: 71% ON TRACK

Goal 4: Reduce child mortality

Target 4.A: Reduce by two-thirds, between 1990 and 2015, the under-five mortality rate

4.1 Under-five mortality rate (per 1,000 births) (2015 Target: 41)1990: 1232012: 69 ON TRACK

4.2 Infant mortality rate (per 1,000 live births) (2015 Target: 30)1990: 902012: 47 ON TRACK

4.3 Proportion of 1 year-old children immunised against measles (2015 Target: >95%)1990: 84%2012: 94.4% ON TRACK

Goal 5: Improve maternal health

Target 5.A: Reduce by three quarters, between 1990 and 2015, the maternal mortality ratio

5.1 Maternal mortality ratio (per 100,000 live births) (2015 Target: 140)1990: 5602012: 155 ON TRACK

5.2 Proportion of births attended by skilled health personnel (2015 Target: 100%)1990: 15%2012: 69% ON TRACK


Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases

Target 6.A: Have halted by 2015 and begun to reverse the spread of HIV/AIDS

6.1 HIV prevalence among population aged 15-24 years 2000: 382012: 297 NEEDS ATTENTION

6.2 Condom use at last high-risk sex (2015 Target: 60%)1994: 19%2012: 65.6% ACHIEVED

Target 6.B: Achieve, by 2010, universal access to treatment for HIV/AIDS for all those who need it

6.3 Proportion of population with advanced HIV infection with access to antiretroviral drugs2010: 33% NEEDS ATTENTION

Target 6.C: Have halted by 2015 and begun to reverse the inci-dence of malaria and other major diseases

6.4 Incidence and death rates associated with malaria1990: 36872012: 194 ON TRACK

6.5 Proportion of tuberculosis cases detected and cured under directly observed treatment short course 1990: 7202000: 1682007: 1250 ON TRACK

Goal 7: ensure environmental sustainability

Target 7.A: Integrate the principles of sustainable development into country policies and programmes and reverse the loss of environmental resources Target 7.B: Reduce biodiversity loss, achieving, by 2010, a sig-nificant reduction in the rate of loss

7.1 Proportion of land area covered by forest (2015 Target: 60%1990: 72.5%2011: 81% ACHIEVED

7.2 Proportion of terrestrial and marine areas protected1990: 23%2000: 26%2007: 29% ON TRACK


Target 7.C: Halve, by 2015, the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation

7.3 Proportion of population using an improved sanitation facility (2015 Target: 17.5%)1990: 33%2012: 5% ACHIEVED

7.4 Proportion of population w/o access to improved drinking water source (2015 Target: 27.5%)1990: 55%2000: 22%2012: 2% ACHIEVED

Goal 8: Develop a global partnership for development

Target 8.F: In cooperation with the private sector, make avail-able the benefits of new technologies, especially information and communications

8.1 Fixed telephone lines per 100,000 inhabitants 1990: 40522000: 165802007: 35420 ON TRACK

Sources: Bhutan Living Standards Report, 2012; Bhutan Labour Force Survey Report, 2012; Bhutan Poverty Analysis Report, 2012; Statistical Yearbook of Bhutan, 2012; Annual Education Statistics, 2012.


VIII. StReNGtHeNING MeDIA AND CIVIC eDUCAtIoN to eNHANCe DeMoCRACY IN BHUtAN

Independent media and democracy are both institutions that continue to develop and grow in Bhutan’s social landscape. In 2008, the Bhutan Centre for Media and Democracy (BCMD) was established to nurture a culture of democracy by building upon the existing media in the country,

and to help support establishment of democratic processes including the strengthening of public discussion.The project “Strengthening Capacity of Key Institutions to Support Parliamentary Democracy” was funded by the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) and implemented by BCMD. UNDP Bhutan acted as the executing agency for this project. The project, which came to an end in June 2012, helped strengthen the foundation of the democratic culture in one of the world’s youngest democracies.

Critical ideas were shared with Bhutan’s citizens, especially in relation to the role of an independent media, citizenship, democratic culture, public space, public service media, and the need for an open society in an evolving democracy. These

issues were deliberated in forums and seminars, explored and shared through media productions and trainings, and piloted through online forums. The initiative enabled Bhutanese people to explore the meaning of moving from being subjects of a Monarchy to citizens of a democracy.

Specific areas where differences have been made include strengthening awareness on access and sharing of information in order to help people make educated decisions. Journalists and Gewog Administrative Officers (GAOs) were trained on the importance of code of ethics in journalism, and how information needs to be disseminated throughout the country and not just focused in urban areas and with political elites. A social media code

e. eNHANCING DeMoCRAtIC GoVeRNANCe

Understanding rights and responsibilities at the 2012 International Democracy Day.


of conduct for GAOs was adopted as a result. Additionally, public discourse was expanded through the creation of a web-portal and the publication of seven books on democracy, in both English and Dzongkha. Teachers were trained on democracy and media concepts, and how to create lesson plans to introduce ideas of citizenship and civic education in selected schools.

The capacity of media workers was also strengthened in other ways. Reporters, bloggers, students, civil servants and interested individuals were taught non-fiction writing techniques in the area of democratic coverage, learning how to write in a fact-based manner, thus strengthening the voice of civil society. Two workshops focused on the issues that challenge the growth of media in a country with participation from the media, private sector, government, and CSOs. One provided a list of recommendations for media development that fed into the

country’s overall discussions and plans. Additionally, support was granted for the celebration of three international events: World Press Freedom Day, International Day of Democracy, and a Youth Festival workshop. All of these were broadcast on national TV, which helped in the dissemination of these ideas to the larger audience.

The 27-month long project was supported with an UNDEF grant of over USD 200,000. Its results will help ensure the further unfolding of Bhutan’s journey towards democracy, and balanced, open, and transparent coverage of the process through the growing and promising media system in the country. Today, after two years of project activities, BCMD’s civic education activities have matured and continue to grow in demand, interest and impact as Bhutan heads towards the second general elections in 2013.

Additionally, public discourse was expanded through the creation of a web-portal and the publication of seven books about democracy, in both English and Dzongkha.


IX. tAKING tHe eNGeNDeReD PAtH

UNDP, in partnership with UN Women, champions gender efforts and continues to prioritize the mainstreaming of gender within the Secretary General’s reform agenda. This is done through the Common Country Assessments (CCA) and the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) to increase coordination and joint programming among partners. This joint venture aims to link women’s issues and concerns to national, regional and global agendas by

fostering networks and alliance building across governments and civil society. It plays a strong advocacy role, concentrating on fostering a multi-sectoral policy dialogue on women’s empowerment. In Bhutan, several policy level meetings, capacity building and empowerment programmes especially with regard to women in politics were conducted.

At the first South Asia Conference on Gender Responsive Governance Index in Thimphu, Anne F Stenhammer, the Regional Programme Director for UN Women said, “what is important, is women’s rights and correct decision making in the society,” adding that in some countries, it had proven to have brought about positive change in women’s participation in politics and in leading the country, and “even in terms of growth of a nation’s happiness and development.”

The event aspires to create a Regional Centre of Excellence for demand-driven capacity development of elected women representatives in South Asia on gender responsive governance.

Together with the UN System in Bhutan, the Representation Office of Denmark, the Danish Institute for Parties and Democracies (DIPD), the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC) and the Department of Local Governance,

Members of Bhutan Network of Elected Women. BNEW was established to empower and strengthen women’s leadership.


Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs (MoHCA) led the first National Consultation Workshop of Elected Women Representatives. The workshop was designed to review opportunities and challenges confronting elected women representatives of Bhutan at the national and local levels. It facilitated the establishment of the Bhutan Network of Elected Women (BNEW) to empower, support and strengthen leadership capacities of elected women representatives and to promote greater participation of women in politics in Bhutan for gender responsive governance.

The government has been making remarkable efforts towards protecting, promoting, and upholding the rights of its people, particularly the marginalized

groups including women and children, through socio-economic programmes (and reforms), and by adopting international and national legislations. In the policy guidelines of the 11th FYP, gender mainstreaming (both as a process and as a strategy) coupled with gender-responsive budgeting were included for implementation to address visible gender gaps in the areas of education (tertiary and vocational levels), employment (with focus on female unemployment), governance and decision-making (with focus on low participation rate of women), and gender-based violence (with focus on violence against women and girls). Likewise, policies, laws and legislations will be analyzed through a gender perspective.

Balancing Family life with Political Aspirations

Thirty-four year old Sangay Lham from Paro Dzongkhang contested the 2008 elections but lost to her male opponent who was a family member. This disadvantage led to a divided family vote, eventually costing her the 2008 elections.

Undeterred and confident, she contested the 2011 local government elections against male opponents and her family’s strong objections. This time she prevailed. Sangay Lham is today the Tshogpa (village representative) of her community. She aspires to encourage youth activities and get more involved in the development of her community.

“Women can do as well as men but I feel there are times when we do better than them. Balancing family life and Tshogpa’s duties is very challenging and I have realized that male Tshogpas do not have to worry about this balance,” says Sangay Lham.


UNDP Bhutan Country office (Co) wins Gold Gender Seal Award

The UNDP CO in Bhutan has much to be proud of. After being part of a two-year pilot programme led by the UNDP Gender Team, the CO was conferred with Gold Gender Equality Seal award for its achievements in gender mainstreaming efforts within the country office as well as with counterparts in 2012.

This award has inspired the progress of the CO and its work in the formulation of the next One Programme (2014-18). Within this upcoming programme cycle, gender issues will play a significant role.The mainstreaming of gender equality and empowerment of women, especially in economic development and political participation, will become major themes under the outcomes.

Within the UNDP Bhutan CO, an integrated gender mainstreaming strategy has been formulated as part of this process, and gender mainstreaming is being applied throughout the thematic programmes and projects of the CO’s units. For example, among various initiatives the UNDP’s Governance Unit has been implementing activities to promote gender awareness in the government both national and local level as well as the implementation of gender responsive budgeting across selected government sectors.

The Poverty and MDGs Portfolio has been active in the economic empowerment of rural women through the promotion of micro and small enterprises, strengthening of social protection, and provision of credit guarantee schemes for unemployed female youth. The Energy, Environment, and Disaster Management

Portfolio is in the process of integrating gender mainstreaming into all of its climate change programmes, and training its staff and implementing partners on how to incorporate gender concerns into their projects.

Gender concerns have been brought explicitly into the everyday operations of the CO, and the office has been recognized as family-friendly and having adequate work-life balance. As a result of these initiatives, Bhutan was one of the three countries selected to take part in this pilot programme to assess the CO gender policies and initiatives, the other two being Argentina and Kyrgyzstan.


X. ADVoCACY AND HIV PReVeNtIoN AMoNGSt BHUtAN’S VUlNeRABle PoPUlAtIoNS

In the two decades since Bhutan’s first HIV/AIDS case was detected in1993, the number of new cases has reached 297 so far. However, actual figures of HIV/AIDS cases in the country are estimated to be much higher. UNDP has been working with government and development

partners to put in place effective policies to address this emerging issue and to advocate for safe-sex practices across the country.

Vulnerable populations such as Men having Sex with Men (MSM)

and transgender people are disproportionately at risk. Additionally, they face social stigma and remain hidden, unlikely to be reached by prevention, treatment and care services. Steps are being taken to address these issues and ensure that vulnerable

Commemoration of World AIDS Day, 2012.


populations have equal access to treatment and care.

Bhutan is one of the recipient countries of the approved South Asia Multi-Country Global Fund Round Programme on the prevention of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among MSM and transgender people (Project DIVA).

With support from Project DIVA, Bhutan convened the first National Stakeholders Meeting on Advocacy and HIV Prevention among MSM and transgender people in 2012 in Paro. The event was led by the National HIV/AIDS& STI Control Programme (NACP) under the Ministry of Health. The meeting reviewed existing international advocacy strategies and legal practices that impact vulnerable populations in the country in order to help ensure appropriate rights based strategies as well as universal access

to prevention, care and support, and treatment services. With over 35 participants from government, the United Nations system, regional partners and the civil society, the meeting fostered an open dialogue to garner better ideas and thoughts to adapt global best practices in Bhutan in strengthening the framework for HIV prevention, care and support services to the vulnerable populations.

As a result of the Paro conference, NACP, in partnership with UNDP, has now undertaken two research projects to explore enabling environment in Bhutan. In 2012, two studies were launched: an MSM and transgender population size estimation of those most at risk to HIV, and a study of stigma and discrimination experienced among these populations in healthcare settings. These will

Children wear awareness T-shirts and hold up red balloons during World AIDS Day.


provide recommendations to develop interventions towards reducing social discrimination against MSM and transgender populations and increasing equitable access to prevention and health services. They note that criminalization of MSM behaviour, homophobia and discrimination in Bhutan contribute to challenges in getting access to health services for MSM and can even contribute to risky sexual behaviour.

These country level studies are due to be completed in 2013 and together with the outcomes of the Bhutan National HIV

and Advocacy Stakeholders Meeting, will be used to inform the development of increasingly appropriate responses on treatment, care and support for the population groups to complement the National Strategic Plan-II for Prevention and Control of STIs, HIV and AIDS in Bhutan 2012-16 (NSP-II). By working closely with civil society, government, and international partners, UNDP Bhutan is demonstrating its support for all dimensions of society, human rights, and its commitment to ensure prevention, safe sex strategies, and equal access to healthcare for all.

Bhutan is one of the recipient countries of the approved South Asia Multi-Country Global Fund Round 9 Programme on the prevention of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among MSM and transgender people (Project DIVA)


Gender Responsive Governance and Budgeting workshops; March 2-3 (thimphu)A two-day conference on the Gender Responsive Governance Index themed “Promoting Women’s Political Leadership and Governance in India and South Asia” was held in Thimphu in partnership with the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and the United Nation’s Resident Coordinator’s Office in Bhutan, with participants from around the region. Strengthening women’s political empowerment and develop political decision-making on gender issues through capacity building and evidence-based policy advocacy were key topics. Additionally, Norwegian research partner Norwegian Institute for Regional and

Urban Research (NIBR) will be working in Bhutan, India and Nepal, to develop the Gender Responsive Governance Index and build research capacity through networking in Bhutan and Nepal.

Millennium Development Goal (MDG) Acceleration Framework Workshop; May 23-24 (Paro)

Having identified youth unemployment as a challenge for the country to reach

its MDG goals by 2015 and in order to ensure Bhutan’s long-term prosperity, a workshop was held in Paro in May. Participants from several government ministries, the private sector, UN agencies, and youth from Civil Society Organizations helped identify constraints, interventions and solutions towards shaping an effective youth employment policy framework in the country.Recommendations from this event will be fed into planning for the next UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) (2014-2018) as well as Bhutan’s 11th FYP (2013-2018). With the country’s youth unemployment rate as high as 9.5%, initiatives of this nature continue to ensure ideas to bring down youth unemployment over the years to come.

F. eVeNt HIGHlIGHtS oF 2012


High level Meeting on Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB); July 18-20 (thimphu)

To continue focus on the government’s efforts on gender mainstreaming, a High Level Meeting on Gender Responsive Budgeting was held in the capital, Thimphu. Gender mainstreaming coupled with gender responsive budgeting (GRB) will be implemented in the policy guidelines for the 11th FYP to address visible gender gaps in the areas of higher education, female unemployment, the low participation rate of women in governance, and gender-based violence. The workshop explored the use of GRB as a tool for

accountability in policy advocacy and programming. It aimed to teach skills for the mainstreaming of gender in planning and budgeting and shared experiences and lessons learned from countries in the region that had already implemented similar GRB measures.

the Regional Poverty environment Initiative (PeI) Meeting, 9-11 August (Paro)

The regional PEI meeting themed ‘Making an impact for a Greener, Inclusive Economy – Lessons Learned and the Way Ahead’, hosted by UNDP together with the UNEP and the Royal Government,

aimed to share lessons on the impacts of PEI mainstreaming across the Asia-Pacific region, and to agree on directions as well as the Regional Strategy for the second Phase of PEI. The PEI is a tool to articulate social, economic and environmental sustainability in development policies and plans at the country level. Currently piloted in the six Asia-Pacific countries of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Lao PDR, Nepal, Philippines and Thailand, the PEI is geared towards preservation of valuable natural resources through improved planning processes and increased benefit-sharing with local communities. The event saw countries present their PEI programmes, success stories, challenges and the way forward based on these experiences. A commonality from all countries was the need to link environment conservation and poverty reduction with development.

The meeting concluded that environmental conservation and poverty


reduction should not be left out of the development agenda and that there were many positive lessons from the first Phase of PEI, which began in 2011, with the transition from planning and policy to implementation now underway. Additionally, the event has influenced Bhutan’s planning for its 11th FYP, with its theme of self-reliance and inclusive green growth.

National employment Forum; November 26 (thimphu)

With technical support from UNDP, the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources organized the first National Employment Forum in Thimphu. The

Forum’s overall objectives were to present evidence based analysis to facilitate informed discussions and better understanding of the employment challenges faced by men and women, in particular youth. UNDP has continued supporting Bhutan’s efforts to analyze and come up with solutions to address its underemployment and youth unemployment issues. Overcoming unemployment is featured as an important focus in its new UN Development Assistance Framework/One Programme (2014- 2018). UNDP’s Asia-Pacific Regional Centre (APRC) also supported the organization of this Forum by issuing a technical paper with a set of data and analysis, highlighting emerging issue of underemployment and chronic unemployment. The forum also looked to the importance of job stability; working conditions in the private sector; opportunity for fostering coordination among the Ministries of Education, Labor and Human Resources and Economic

Affairs as well as academic institutions for balancing labor-demand and supply sides; and enhancing opportunities for entrepreneurship.

International Conference on Glacial lake outburst Floods (GloF); December 5-7 (Paro)

In collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Austrian Development Cooperation, and the World Wildlife Fund, an international conference was organized in Paro. It was organized as an apex of activities under the first National Adaptation Programme


of Action (NAPA) project Reducing Climate Change induced Risks and Vulnerabilities of GLOF. Glaciers in Bhutan are observed to be receding at a rate of 3-6 meters per year and the risk from potential disasters from the flooding poses threats to lives, livelihoods and development in the region. This Conference built on work going back a number of years and demonstrated successes in mitigating these disasters in Bhutan and beyond through sharing technical lessons, new scientific findings and experiences, and explored the potential for replication and scaling-up of project interventions. The Conference successfully facilitated sharing of lessons learned from various countries, such as Austria, Norway, Japan, Nepal and India. Participants also discussed applications for future interventions in Bhutan and other countries that face similar risks from GLOF.


In 2012, UNDP invested over US$ 4.1 million in support of the country’s development interventions. Of the four strategic focus areas that UNDP supports in Bhutan, the highest expenditure was recorded under:•Crisispreventionandrecovery (38%)•Democraticgovernance(34%)•Povertyreduction(16%)•Environmentandsustainable

development (15%)

UNDP’s funding comes from its own resources and contributions from donors, other UN agencies and UN thematic funds. UNDP works with the Royal Government of Bhutan, other UN agencies, and national and international development partners to implement its projects and programmes.

G. ReSoURCeS AND PARtNeRSHIPStop Budget Sources

United Nations Development Programme $1.60M

UN Women $0.77M

UNOCHA Central Emergencies Response Fund $0.71M

Global Environment Fund Trustee $0.56M

Austrian Development Agency $0.23M

UN Bhutan Country Fund $0.09M

UNOPS - EIF Trust Fund Manager $0.08M

UN Democracy Fund $0.07M

European Union $0.03M

Arab Gulf Program for Development $0.03M

Netherlands Development Organisation (SNV) $0.00M

Government of Japan $0.00M

UNAIDS $0.00M

Environmental and Sustainable Development 15%

Crisis Prevention and Recovery 38%

Poverty Reduction and MDG Achievement 16%

Democratic Governance 31%


UNDP BhutanP.O. Box 162

Thimphu, Bhutan

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© Photographs, UNDP Bhutan


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