Survivors of violence and children in conflict with the law will now have access to protected services in every district

Neten Dorji

Lhuentse— Eleven-year-old Karma (name changed) endured years of abuse at the hands of her biological father. Her ordeal began after the tragic loss of her mother, leaving her vulnerable and in need of care and protection.

For years, Karma suffered in silence, too afraid to speak out. Her ordeal only came to light when she confided in a teacher at school, who reported the case to the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP).

But a new challenge arose: Karma had nowhere safe to go. Returning to her home would have meant returning to danger, exposing her to further harm.

Karma’s plight highlights the challenges faced by children and women suffering from abuse. However, there is now a glimmer of hope.

UNICEF Bhutan and the RBP inaugurated the 20th Women and Child Protection Desk (WCPD) in Lhuentse on November 23. This milestone marks Bhutan’s nationwide effort to address violence against women and children.

With the opening of the WCPD in Lhuentse, every dzongkhag in the country now has access to these crucial protection desks. These desks are staffed by trained professionals who are equipped to respond and prevent violence, offering a lifeline to the most vulnerable members of society.

The WCPD will serve as a critical support system for women and children facing abuse, exploitation, and neglect. It offers a safe and confidential space for survivors to report crimes. The desk will also offer immediate protection, assistance, counselling, and psychosocial support to help survivors recover from their trauma.

“We did our best with what we had, but without a dedicated space for women and children facing abuse or legal challenges, it was always a struggle,” a police official said. “Now, with the establishment of the WCPD, we can offer vulnerable women and children the care and support they deserve in a safer environment.”

The gender and child focal person of Lhuentse Dzongkhag Administration, Ngawang Lhamo, said that the WCPD is a vital mechanism to provide support to those who need it the most. 

“Women and children often don’t know where to report or who to consult when they face violence,” she said. “We are happy that now victims at least have a space to open up.”

This new desk will be especially beneficial to children like Karma, who are often helpless and uncertain about where to turn to.

Domestic violence in Lhuentse is a growing concern, with reports of physical abuse, battery, and sexual violence on the rise. Factors such as alcohol abuse, lack of education, financial struggles, and dependency make it harder for victims to escape their abusers, according to local leaders.

Menbi Gup Ngawang Dhendup said that children from difficult circumstances and those who have previously come into conflict with the law can access services within the dzongkhag.

“Women and children are the heart of our community, and their safety and well-being must always be our priority,” the gup said. “This dedicated facility will ensure they have a safe space to access the care and services they need, empowering them to live with dignity and security.”

Since the start of the year, Lhuentse police have recorded 24 cases, including 11 related to women and children.

During the WCPD inauguration, UNICEF Bhutan Representative Andrea James commended the RBP for ensuring round-the-clock access to critical protection services for vulnerable women and children.

“As the first responder to protection services, the WCPDs enable the RBP with a dedicated space to support and ensure the safety of women and children,” the Representative said. “These services are not only life-saving but also offer vulnerable women and children hope and resilience to rebuild their lives.”

She pledged UNICEF’s commitment to working with the RBP to sustain this achievement and continue building safe communities, institutions, and homes for every woman and child.

Additional Chief of Police Colonel Phub Gyaltshen thanked UNICEF for its invaluable support and partnership in this effort. “The WCPDs play a crucial role in providing a safe and supportive environment for women and children, ensuring they receive the protection and assistance they deserve.”

The RBP with the support of UNICEF instituted the establishment of protection desks in the main police stations in every district and set up another three Women and Child Protection Units in urban centres of Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing.

Along with Lhuentse, two more protection desks were established in Gasa and Pemagatshel this year. The first Women and Child Protection Unit was established at Thimphu Police Station in 2007.

According to RBP records, between 2007 and 2024, a total of 12,654 women and 3,748 children who were victims of gender-based violence received support from these desks and units.

The most common issues managed by the desks include domestic violence, as well as referrals to shelters and psychosocial support.