Photo: Karma Jamtsho/UNDP Bhutan
UNDP Bhutan, in partnership with the Office of Cabinet Affairs and Strategic Coordination and the Disabled People’s Organization (DPO), organized the initiative under the “Inclusive & Future Smart: Transforming the Public Sector for Improved Service Delivery” project. The project is funded through the Global Funding Windows by the governments of Denmark, Luxembourg, and Republic of Korea.
The initiative seeks to advance disability inclusion in Bhutan, building on previous efforts. In collaboration with key stakeholders, UNDP Bhutan oriented local leaders on the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities, resulting in action plans for accessible infrastructure, inclusive disaster management, and awareness campaigns. These efforts ensure equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and social services, improve accessibility, protect rights during emergencies, and empower individuals—particularly in rural areas where poverty and disability are closely connected. Ultimately, the initiative strengthens Bhutan’s social and economic fabric, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
More than just a workshop, this was a safe space—a gathering that connected persons with disabilities and their caregivers, empowering them with knowledge, advocacy skills, and a sense of community.
The event brought together participants with diverse disabilities—some who had never left their villages and had the chance to connect with others facing similar struggles. It was a space filled with powerful storytelling, group discussions, and activities designed to foster confidence, critical thinking, and teamwork. Above all, it built empathy. The focus was not just on equipping them with skills but also on advocating for their rightful place in policy discussions, ensuring that infrastructure, services, and opportunities are truly inclusive.
This article was originally published on: undp-bhutan.exposure.co
