As part of Bhutan’s ongoing efforts to build a more just, inclusive, and equitable society, the Bhutan National Legal Institute (BNLI), in collaboration with UNDP Bhutan, successfully conducted a three-day sensitization program in Haa from 16 to 18 July 2025. The program focused on promoting gender equality, disability rights, and legal aid awareness.
The program brought together 56 participants, including officials from the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP), Bench Clerks and Registrars from the Royal Court of Justice (RCJ), RENEW Case Managers, and Protection Officers from the PEMA Secretariat.
This initiative marks a crucial step towards aligning Bhutan’s justice services with the principles of equality, inclusivity, and people-centric justice. While Bhutan has made commendable progress in socio-economic development, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to justice, particularly for persons with disabilities. The program directly addressed these challenges by equipping frontline justice service providers with the knowledge, skills, and empathy required to effectively serve vulnerable populations.
Anchored in the values enshrined in the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan and guided by the country’s unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), the program reflects Bhutan’s strengthened commitment to upholding human dignity and advancing social justice. It further aligns with Bhutan’s international commitments under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 16, which seeks to ensure equal access to justice for all.
The program promoted a deeper understanding of systemic barriers, unconscious biases, and legal complexities, encouraging service providers to adopt a more people-centric and rights-based approach. Key areas of focus included addressing gender-based violence, combating discrimination, and reducing the marginalization of persons with disabilities. The sessions emphasized the importance of empathy, equity, and community engagement in justice delivery.
The BNLI and UNDP Bhutan remain committed to continuing this important dialogue and capacity-building initiative in other regions of the country. Through collaborative efforts and strengthened partnerships among justice actors, the goal is to build a justice system that is not only accessible but truly responsive to the needs of every individual, ensuring no one is left behind.
The program concluded successfully on July 18, 2025, with the closing session graced by Mr. Mohammad Younus, Resident Representative of UNDP Bhutan, and Mr. Adel Hussain Al Jassam, Ambassador of the State of Kuwait to Bhutan.