Bhutan

Bhutan, a landlocked nation situated in south-central Asia, is positioned along the eastern slopes of the
Himalayan mountain range. Traditionally an isolated kingdom, Bhutan started to open up in the latter
half of the 20th century, resulting in increased change and modernization, including significant
advancements in transportation that reduced travel time between the Indian border and the capital,
Thimphu, from six days by mule to just a few hours by car along a mountain road. Additionally,
governance underwent substantial transformations, shifting away from absolute monarchy in the 1990s
and transitioning towards a multiparty parliamentary democracy in 2008, driven by reforms initiated
during King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk’s reign from 1952 to 1972.

Culture and traits:

Bhutan’s three primary ethnic groups—Bhutia, Nepalese, and Sharchop—exhibit diverse cultures and
lifestyles. Bhutia homes are typically two-storied structures of timber and stone, housing livestock on the
ground floor and a small Buddhist shrine inside. The Bhutia practice polyandry but follow a patriarchal
family system, and both men and women have a say in marriage and divorce. Sharchop share Tibetan
Buddhism with the Bhutia, build houses on hillslopes, and practice shifting agriculture. The Nepalese in
southern Bhutan are mostly Hindus with bamboo and thatch houses, adhering to caste and dietary
preferences similar to those in Nepal and India.

Governance:

Until the 1950s, Bhutan operated as an absolute monarchy, with the sovereign holding the title of the
“dragon king.” However, as the 20th century progressed, monarchs gradually relinquished their authority,
culminating in 2008 when King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk, the fifth ruler in a royal lineage
established in 1907, completed the transition of governance to a popularly elected, multiparty,
bicameral legislature. Although the monarch retained a symbolic role as the head of state, the practical
leadership of the government shifted to the prime minister, typically the leader of the majority party in
the legislature.

Societal attitudes:

Being a true Bhutanese involves not just birthplace but also embracing distinct moral values and
attitudes that set them apart. These values include a strong belief in traditional culture and religion, a
sense of responsibility, and a welcoming attitude toward others. Bhutanese identity is defined by a deep
sense of belonging, a unique culture, and a commitment to moral values, contributing to a rich and
diverse national identity.