Thimphu
Gateway to Inclusive Governance
Bhutan is paving the way for a more inclusive future where women’s voices are heard and valued at every level of governance.
Bhutan is taking significant steps to change the narrative in a country where women’s political participation has historically lagged behind. The initiative “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government,” launched ahead of the 3rd Local Government (LG) Elections, marks a bold effort to address gender disparity in political leadership. Supported by the European Union (EU) and designed in collaboration with civil society groups, the program is a testament to Bhutan’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable representation in governance.
Bhutan’s political landscape has long been male-dominated, particularly at the local governance level. As of recent statistics, only two women serve as Gups (elected county leaders) out of 205 positions nationwide. Similarly, there are just 24 women among the 205 Mangmis (elected deputy county leaders). These figures highlight women’s systemic challenges in accessing leadership roles, from entrenched cultural norms to limited access to resources and networks.
This gender imbalance reflects a lack of representation and hinders the broader goal of inclusive governance. Women’s voices bring unique perspectives to policy-making, particularly on healthcare, education, and community welfare, where their experiences are often directly relevant. The initiative to enhance women’s representation is a critical step toward a more balanced and representative local governance system.
The “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government” initiative was designed with clear, actionable goals to overcome the barriers preventing women from participating in local governance. The primary objectives include:
Educating communities about the importance of women’s participation in governance and breaking down stereotypes that confine women to traditional roles.
Providing potential women candidates with leadership training, public speaking skills, and a deeper understanding of governance structures.
Establishing mentorship programs and support groups to guide and encourage women aspirants throughout the electoral process.
Partnering with local organizations to foster grassroots movements, advocating gender equality in politics.
The initiative adopted a multi-pronged approach to address the deeply rooted barriers women face. Key strategies included workshops and awareness programs conducted in rural areas to challenge stereotypes and encourage families to support women candidates. These sessions emphasized the benefits of diverse leadership and the positive impact of women leaders on community welfare.
Aspiring women leaders received targeted training to enhance their leadership abilities, communication skills, and understanding of electoral processes. These programs aimed to boost confidence and equip participants to navigate the challenges of campaigning.
Local media outlets played a significant role in highlighting the stories of women leaders and creating visibility for their contributions. This helped inspire other women to step forward and consider leadership roles.
The initiative worked with policymakers to address systemic issues, such as the lack of childcare facilities, which disproportionately affect women’s ability to engage in public life.
Since its inception, the initiative has yielded several positive outcomes, setting the stage for increased women’s participation in governance.
The program has successfully raised community awareness about the importance of women’s leadership. Many families and communities have become more supportive of women’s election participation, reflecting a gradual shift in societal attitudes.
The leadership training programs have empowered women to step forward as candidates, with several participants contesting in the 2021 LG elections. While significant barriers remain, the initiative has helped establish a foundation for more women to aspire to leadership positions.
The initiative “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government,” launched ahead of the 3rd Local Government (LG) Elections in Bhutan, marks a bold effort to address gender disparity in political leadership.
Women candidates now have access to mentorship and peer support, which has proven invaluable during the electoral process. These networks continue to serve as platforms for sharing experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges.
The initiative has helped spotlight existing women leaders, showcasing their contributions and inspiring others. Media coverage and community recognition have elevated their status, challenging the notion that leadership is solely a male domain.
The project has sparked meaningful conversations about the need for systemic reforms to support women in governance. This includes discussions on policies like reserved seats for women in local government and gender-sensitive workplace environments.
Despite these successes, the journey towards gender equity in Bhutan’s local governance is far from over. Cultural norms and societal expectations continue to pose significant barriers. Many women face opposition from family members or communities who view leadership roles incompatible with traditional gender roles.
Financial constraints remain a hurdle for many women aspiring to run for office. Campaigning requires resources many women lack access to, especially in rural areas.
To sustain and build on the progress made, it is essential to:
Expand training programs and mentorship opportunities to reach more women across Bhutan.
Strengthen partnerships with civil society and international organizations to amplify the impact of gender-focused initiatives.
Advocate for policy changes that create a more level playing field, such as quotas for women in local government.
Continue engaging communities to dismantle stereotypes and foster a culture of inclusion.
The “Enhancing Women’s Representation in Local Government” initiative is pivotal in Bhutan’s journey towards inclusive governance. By empowering women and challenging societal norms, the program is increasing the number of women in leadership roles and enriching the quality of governance itself.
As Bhutan moves forward, the lessons from this initiative offer valuable insights for other nations grappling with similar challenges. The road to gender equity in politics may be long, but Bhutan’s efforts demonstrate that meaningful change is possible through collaboration, education, and a commitment to equality. With sustained effort and support, Bhutan can pave the way for a more inclusive future where women’s voices are heard and valued at every level of governance.
Sara Danial is a Pakistan-based writer/editor and can be reached at sara.amj@hotmail.co.uk
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