KP Sharma

The United Nations supported Bhutan with USD 35.57 million last year, of which USD 21.9 million or 62 percent was used, according to the United Nations Bhutan Country Results 2023.

The report highlighted Bhutan’s sustainable development journey and reaffirmed its support, building on past achievements, and outlining key priorities for the future.

The United Nations Sustainable Developvment Framework (UNSDPF) has been instrumental in guiding UN support in Bhutan from 2019 to 2023 with the objective of fostering “A Just, Harmonious, and Sustainable Bhutan where no one is left behind.”

According to a press release from the Bhutan UN office, one of the major successes of UN intervention has been the establishment of the Bhutan statistical database system (BSDS), a unified platform aimed at enhancing data management and governance for inclusive development.

This initiative, according to the report, bolstered evidence-based decision-making, providing crucial sector data and enhancing the nation’s preparedness for disasters through improved management systems and emergency coordination.

The UN’s support extends to ensuring equitable access to quality social services for vulnerable populations, covering areas such as child protection, education, health, and nutrition.

Under this support, initiatives such as “Football for the Goals” have leveraged the popularity of football to promote sustainable development and drive positive social change in Bhutan.

The United Nations remains committed to supporting Bhutan’s sustainable development efforts with key priorities, including facilitating the transition from least developed country status and advancing the implementation of the convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (CRPD).

It added that tailored assistance would be provided to effectively manage the LDC graduation process and ensure a smooth transition towards sustainable development.

Resident co-ordinator of United Nations Bhutan, Karla Robin Hershey, said that the UN was working closely with the government and other key stakeholders to support Bhutan’s journey towards achieving its 2030 aspirations, including the SDGs and Bhutan’s national development plans.

“Our support has been anchored in aligning our initiatives with the national priorities and development frameworks of Bhutan, including the 12th Five-Year Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Partnership Framework (UNSDPF),” she said.