In a world dominated by divisive political ideologies, where polarisation and partisanship seem to be the norm, there is a unique and refreshing approach to politics, we dare say—look to Bhutan.
As the Election Commission of Bhutan approves the manifestoes of all the political parties, five in all, it underscores the nation’s commitment to unity, co-operation, and a shared vision.
Bhutan’s political landscape is a stark contrast to the often-adversarial systems found in many democracies around the world. The Bhutanese people and our leaders have long embraced a philosophy that transcends the limitations of ideology, focusing instead on collective aspirations and a shared vision for the nation’s future.
While many nations grapple with the challenges of political polarisation, Bhutan has been choosing a different path, guided by a belief in the power of unity and a common purpose.
In Bhutan, political parties do not subscribe to rigid ideologies or engage in the bitter, divisive rhetoric that characterises so many political debates around the world. Instead, we come together with a common vision for the country’s development and progress.
This unique approach is a testament to the country’s commitment to putting national interests above all else.
The fact is that the absence of rigid ideologies in Bhutan’s political discourse fosters a spirit of co-operation and collaboration that is rarely seen in the world of wider political arena.
Rather than wasting time and energy on divisive ideological battles, our leaders and political parties have always directed their efforts toward addressing pressing issues of the nation and improving the lives of our citizens.
This approach has not only prevented the kind of political polarisation that can paralyse governments, but has also allowed for more agile decision-making processes.
We are, unashamedly, a different people, known for our strong sense of community and shared values. We recognise the importance of unity and common purpose in achieving our nation’s goals.
This unity, coupled with a unique emphasis on Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product, has made our country a standout among rest of the nations in the world.
And we appreciate our wisdom of common goals. Flexibility and open-mindedness are essential in a rapidly changing world where adaptability and pragmatism play critical roles on our path to success.
Our belief is that while the challenges faced by larger democracies may be vastly different, the principles that guide Bhutan’s approach to politics can still inspire fresh thinking and better collaboration.
As the Election Commission of Bhutan approves the manifestos of all the political parties, it is evident that this approach is more than just a quirk of Bhutanese politics—it is a fundamental part of the nation’s identity.
It is a testament to the resilience of Bhutan’s unique political culture, which has withstood the test of time.