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Thimphu

Beacon of Hope

Cultural resistance, financial constraints, and limited access to resources continue to hinder women’s political participation in Bhutan.

By Sara Danial | October 2024


In Bhutan, a country renowned for its commitment to Gross National Happiness, there remains a significant gender gap in political participation and leadership, particularly in local governance. According to recent statistics, only 2 women are among the 205 elected Gups (county leaders), and 24 women are among the 205 elected Mangmis (deputy county leaders).

This stark disparity has prompted the conceptualization and implementation of the initiative “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government,” targeting the 3rd Local Government (LG) Elections of 2021. Funded by the European Union (EU), this initiative aims to bolster women’s roles in local governance, fostering a more inclusive and representative political landscape.

Despite strides in various sectors, women’s political participation in Bhutan remains limited. The underrepresentation of women in local government positions not only reflects broader societal norms but also impedes the country’s progress towards gender equality. The low numbers of female Gups and Mangmis highlight the need for concerted efforts to empower women and break down the barriers that hinder their political engagement.

In rural areas, traditional gender roles often confine women to domestic responsibilities, limiting their opportunities for public service. Additionally, the lack of female role models in leadership positions perpetuates the notion that politics is a male domain. These cultural and structural barriers contribute to the persistent gender gap in local governance.

The “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government,” an initiative funded by the EU, was conceived to address these challenges. By supporting civil society groups and organizations in Bhutan, this project aims to create an enabling environment for women to participate in local governance. The initiative focuses on several key areas to achieve its objectives:

One of the initiative’s core components is capacity building. Through targeted training programs, potential female candidates are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to run for local government positions. These programs cover a range of topics, including leadership, public speaking, policy-making, and governance. By enhancing women’s capabilities, the initiative aims to boost their confidence and preparedness for political roles.

Another critical aspect of the initiative is raising awareness about the importance of women’s political participation. Public campaigns are conducted to challenge traditional gender norms and encourage communities to support female candidates. These campaigns highlight the benefits of diverse leadership and the positive impact of women’s involvement in governance on community development and decision-making.

Mentorship programs connect aspiring female leaders with experienced politicians and professionals who can provide guidance and support. These mentors offer valuable insights into navigating the political landscape and overcoming challenges. Additionally, networking opportunities are created to help women build connections with peers and stakeholders, fostering a sense of solidarity and collective empowerment.


The initiative also involves advocacy efforts to influence policy changes to promote gender equality in local governance. The project seeks to create a more favorable environment for women’s political participation by engaging with policymakers and stakeholders. This includes advocating for gender quotas, providing financial support for female candidates, and ensuring that electoral processes are inclusive and transparent.

The initiative has already made significant strides in its early stages. Increased awareness and training have led to a rise in the number of women expressing interest in local government roles. The initiative has also sparked conversations about gender equality and the need for systemic change in Bhutanese society.

Critical aspect of the initiative is raising awareness about the importance of women’s political participation. Public campaigns are conducted to challenge traditional gender norms and encourage communities to support female candidates.

The initiative’s impact became more evident as the 3rd LG Elections of 2021 approached. A noticeable increase in the number of female candidates running for Gup and Mangmi positions was observed, signaling a shift in societal attitudes towards women in leadership. While the numbers are still far from achieving gender parity, the progress made thus far is promising.

Several success stories have emerged from the initiative, showcasing the potential for women to thrive in local governance. Women who once doubted their abilities have stepped forward, inspired by the support and resources provided by the initiative. These trailblazers serve as role models for future generations, demonstrating that women can lead and effect positive change in their communities.

Despite the progress, challenges remain. Cultural resistance, financial constraints, and limited access to resources continue to hinder women’s political participation. Addressing these challenges through sustained advocacy, continuous training, and community engagement is crucial to sustaining the momentum.

The initiative underscores the importance of international support in advancing gender equality. The EU’s involvement has not only provided financial resources but also lent credibility and visibility to the cause. Continued collaboration between local and international stakeholders will be essential for long-term success.

The “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government” initiative marks a significant step toward closing the gender gap in Bhutanese politics. By empowering women and challenging societal norms, the project is paving the way for a more inclusive and representative local governance system. As Bhutan continues its journey towards gender equality, the lessons learned and successes achieved through this initiative will serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future efforts.

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