Bhoutan

The Kingdom of Bhutan is known internationally for its exemplary efforts to safeguard the environment. In 2006, the National Environment Commission decided to move beyond safeguarding and implement Bhutan’s concept of gross national happiness (Royal Government of Bhutan, 2002) as the objective of development. With harmonised donor assistance, the government has taken some impressive steps to mainstream environmental concerns into national five-year plans and sector policies. This case study outlines the development of environmental mainstreaming for the period from 2006 to 2008, based on SEA principles derived from the SEA Guidance.

Bhutan signed UNCAC in 2005 but has not yet ratified the Convention as of April 2010. It is not a member of the APG. Bhutan’s legal system is based on British common law and Indian law. Its criminal bribery offences have not been externally reviewed.

Bhutan upholds the concept of gender equality. The status of women is largely influenced by the country’s Buddhist traditions and values, which view men and women as equals. Because of this general view of equality, however, the country has not yet established specific laws to protect against the discrimination of women, and some traditions and norms continue to limit women’s roles.