Thinley Namgay

Amid growing efforts to build a more inclusive society, Bhutan observed International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) by hosting the National Disability Conference in Thimphu on December 3.

The event, which drew around 170 participants, spotlighted the progress and challenges faced by 48,325 PwDs in the country, as revealed by the National Health Survey 2023.

The two-day conference was organised by a group of civil society organisations—Disabled People’s Organisation of Bhutan (DPoB), Ability Bhutan Society, Royal Society for Senior Citizens, Bhutan Stroke Foundation, Draktsho, and Phensem Parent Support Group—on the global theme “Amplifying the Leadership of PwDs for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future”.

The conference acknowledged milestones such as  the endorsement of the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities (NPPD) and ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights for Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Today, 48 Special Education Needs schools provide tailored learning opportunities, and public infrastructure, such as hospitals and banks, is increasingly accessible.

However,  it was highlighted that a significant investment is required to address societal and structural barriers.

Yonten Jamtsho, programme officer with the DPoB, said that from accessible infrastructure to inclusive policies and equal opportunities in education, the country must ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to succeed.

“Whether it’s through creating inclusive policies, driving social change, or challenging societal norms, PwDs are proving that leadership comes in many forms,” he said.

He called for collaborative efforts to break down barriers, raise awareness, and promote equal opportunities, stating that the leadership of PwDs should not only be acknowledged but also actively encouraged and empowered.

Discussions focused on the importance of early identification and intervention for PwDs, timely hospital referrals, advocacy to break disability myths, and the need for comprehensive data on deaf individuals.

While infrastructure development is vital, participants agreed that changing societal attitudes is equally important. “Society must recognise that PwDs are also human beings deserving of dignity and support,” said one participant.

Sonam, a person with blindness, shared the difficulties PwDs face in securing employment despite his training in spa therapy and music.  “I rely solely on my wife’s income,” he said, calling for better employment opportunities and accessible public infrastructure.

Another person with blindness, Nauraj Rai, pointed to the financial burdens faced by PwDs.

“I work hard to sustain myself by selling both local and imported cookies, but I still have to pay the same taxes to the government,” he said.

He suggested the government consider tax exemptions and concessional loans for PwDs.