𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

By Lalit Gurung

Bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to commemorate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), the National Disability Conference (NDC) this year took place in Thimphu. Organized by Ability Bhutan Society (ABS), the Bhutan Stroke Foundation (BSF), the Disabled People’s Organization of Bhutan (DPO), the Phensem Parents Support Group, the Royal Society for Senior Citizens, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH), the conference was held under the theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”

The event aimed to amplify the leadership of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) while promoting inclusivity across all sectors of Bhutanese society. The objectives of the conference were to strengthen public understanding of the rights and contributions of PWDs, improve the implementation of key disability policies, and foster collaboration among government bodies, NGOs, and organizations representing PWDs to address gaps in services.

One of the key highlights of the conference was the inaugural meeting of the Agenda Chikha Steering Committee. This marks a pivotal milestone in Bhutan’s journey toward comprehensive disability inclusion. Launched on November 13, 2024, in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck, Agenda Chikha is a forward-thinking, action-focused initiative aimed at transforming attitudes and empowering PWDs through strategic policy implementation and partnerships.

The Steering Committee pledged nearly USD 8 million in funding to support projects advancing disability rights and inclusion. This financial commitment demonstrates Bhutan’s strong resolve to recognize the inherent dignity of PWDs and their invaluable contributions to society.

Assistive technology (AT) was a central discussion at the conference, as it plays a vital role in ensuring access and inclusion for PWDs. The Jigme Namgyal Wangchuck Super Fab Lab (JNWSFL) presented its innovative efforts in this area. Established in June 2022 by His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, JNWSFL has spearheaded numerous projects to support inclusivity through technology.

Analyst Tshering Wangzom highlighted collaborations with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to build a sustainable assistive technology ecosystem in Bhutan. Their efforts have focused on initiatives like makerthons and the Fab Festival while developing solutions that aim to improve the quality of life for PWDs by providing them access to cutting-edge innovations.

Timothy Wilson, Head of the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office (UNRCO), addressed the conference by emphasizing the shift from a policy-oriented approach to action-oriented strategies. While Bhutan has made commendable progress in raising awareness and drafting disability policies, Wilson emphasised the urgency of effective implementation.

He highlighted how the United Nations can act as a catalyst to support efforts by facilitating dialogue, encouraging innovation, and fostering inclusive environments that enable PWDs to actively participate in their communities.
In addition to innovation and policy, discussions focused on addressing service gaps that affect PWDs. Key areas identified were healthcare access, educational opportunities, and social support. These services were noted as critical for ensuring no one is left behind. Specific emphasis was placed on ensuring accessible health facilities, educational programs, and social welfare for the most vulnerable members of Bhutanese society.

The conference emphasized that addressing these gaps is essential for creating equity and opportunities for PWDs.
The National Disability Conference 2024 was not only a reflection of Bhutan’s journey toward inclusivity but also a call to action. The conference strengthened the idea that collaboration across all sectors, government, civil society, private sector, and the PWDs themselves, is vital to building a nation that prioritizes inclusivity.

The two-day event provided a valuable platform for PWDs to assume leadership roles, highlighting their voices as crucial participants in Bhutan’s socio-political and economic development. International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was observed on December 3 and 4 at Namgay Heritage in Thimphu.