As the world faces unprecedented environmental and social crises, Bhutan stands quietly as a picture of hope and resilience. Often overshadowed by global powers, Bhutan’s contributions to sustainable living and climate action have been revolutionary, even if the world hasn’t fully realised it yet. We are already a living model of how humanity can balance development with the environment, culture, and well-being. This leadership has never been more critically necessary than it is today.
Globally, the scale of climate change is stark: rising temperatures, frequent natural disasters, and the degradation of ecosystems are pushing the planet towards an uncertain future. Many nations, despite promises, are falling short in their efforts to tackle the crisis. Amid this global chaos, Bhutan’s commitment to being carbon-negative—a nation that absorbs more carbon than it emits—serves as a powerful example of what’s possible. This achievement is not an easy feat for a developing country. Yet, we have managed it through careful stewardship of its environment, with more than 70 percent of our land covered in forests and the majority of our energy needs being met by renewable sources, particularly hydropower.
But the world isn’t just facing an environmental crisis; it’s grappling with a crisis of values. As nations prioritise economic growth at all costs, Bhutan has consistently placed the happiness and well-being of its citizens at the heart of national policy. GNH, introduced in the 1970s by His Majesty the Fourth King, remains a revolutionary concept. While the rest of the world obsesses over GDP as the sole indicator of success, Bhutan’s leadership shows that true progress is about much more. It’s about the quality of life, mental well-being, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation.
Today, our GNH framework resonates globally, as countries come to terms with the flaws in their growth-at-all-costs models. While GDP might indicate rising national wealth, it rarely reflects rising inequality, environmental degradation, or societal unhappiness. Bhutan, by focusing on holistic well-being, reminds the world that happiness and sustainability can—and should—be the end goals of development.
Consider the global mental health crisis as just one example. Rates of anxiety and depression have surged worldwide, especially in highly developed nations. The emphasis on relentless productivity and consumerism has led to a sense of emptiness for many, where economic success has been prioritised over personal well-being. Bhutan’s message of mindfulness and balance speaks directly to these challenges. It emphasises that societal progress should not come at the cost of human happiness or environmental health.
Beyond mental well-being, our leadership on the global stage is also significant in shaping dialogues on climate responsibility. As the impacts of climate change worsen, especially for small and developing nations, the world needs new models of sustainability. Bhutan, as a small country that’s still developing economically, has demonstrated that economic progress and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive. The international community can no longer ignore that small nations like Bhutan can lead the way in climate action, setting an example for larger, wealthier nations to follow.
Bhutan’s leadership isn’t just about policy; it’s about action. Our leadership in environmental conservation, our commitment to renewable energy, and our GNH-centered development model all offer the world a tangible pathway forward. Bhutan’s decision to prioritise forests, water, and natural resources over short-term economic gains should be more than admirable—it’s essential in an age where natural resources are rapidly depleting.
The Bhutan Innovation Forum (BIF) is a timely reminder of Bhutan’s willingness to embrace modern solutions while preserving the integrity of our values. By blending eco-friendly entrepreneurship with cultural preservation, Bhutan shows that it is not stuck in the past but is creatively charting its future. The Forum brings together global leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators to imagine a future that respects both tradition and progress, aligning perfectly with Bhutan’s goals of mindfulness, sustainability, and ethical growth.
The world is at a critical juncture. Global efforts to combat climate change, preserve cultural identities, and enhance mental well-being are faltering, but Bhutan offers a way forward. The world needs a vision and t courage to walk a different path. BIF provides the best space to think beyong today.