Sherab Lhamo

One of the reasons for high attrition in the civil service is because of the loss of sense of belonging and loss of innocence, according Dr. Dorji Wangchuk (PhD), a communication scholar.

Speaking at the Bhutan Echoes: Drukyul Literature and Arts Festival on August 3, Dorji Wangchuk raised concerns about the erosion of Bhutanese identity due to the growing sense of disconnection and loss of innocence.

“The economic structure, coupled with various rules and policies, has disrupted the sense of community. Many people feel they are not contributing meaningfully or that they are of little use, “ he said.

He described the concept of belonging as an authentic connection to one’s past, present, and future. This connection, which binds individuals to a shared history, relationships, and aspirations, is essential for a cohesive society.

The lack of this connection, he explained, leads to a profound sense of disconnection, often referred to as a loss of belonging.

Dorji Wangchuk’s study on Bhutanese living overseas revealed a common sentiment of feeling undervalued and disconnected from their homeland. “I think the challenge for our leaders, for our government, is to bring people together,” he said.

In one of his articles published in Kuensel, Dorji Wangchuk argues that loss of innocence in traditional Bhutan is accelerated by political changes. While those in positions of power struggle with empathy amid newfound power, privileges and ego, the younger generation grapple with the sense of belonging, he states. 

On the concept of loss of innocence, Dorji Wangchuk, said that innocence is not merely a lack of experience with the harsh realities of the world but rather an intrinsic desire to help others.

He illustrated this with a personal story of a cow herder who assisted him when he was lost,  showcasing the trusting and helpful nature that once characterised Bhutanese society.

In the article, Dorji Wangchuk also expresses his concern over the shift from an interdependent to an independent self among the youth – a change accelerated by over reliance on technology. “This transition could lead to feelings of misunderstanding and rejection,” he said, expressing concerns about Bhutan losing its innocence.

Despite these challenges, Dorji Wangchuk acknowledged the positive aspects of Bhutanese society, particularly the strong social support networks. He gave the example of a recent social media fundraising campaign for a parking fee collector carrying a baby on his back, which garnered support from many Bhutanese abroad, including in Australia.

Concluding his talk, he stressed on the urgency of preserving and rebuilding Bhutan’s cultural heritage, as the generation that carries the stories and sacrifices of their ancestors is rapidly declining. “The last train is leaving soon,” he said.