𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐋 – 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐩

In the setting of a young democracy, the foundations are not laid by laws alone but by the people who live, breathe, and uphold its principles. Bhutan, with its relatively recent embrace of democratic governance, finds itself at a critical juncture- one that demands not just participation in elections, but a deep-rooted understanding of democracy itself. The Election Commission of Bhutan’s expanded Civic Education Programme (CEP) is a timely and commendable stride toward nurturing an informed and engaged citizenry.

A vibrant democracy does not merely rely on voter turnout during elections; it thrives on sustained public understanding, vigilance, and participation throughout the electoral cycle. The revised civic education module that targets diverse population groups, from students and youth to rural communities and persons with disabilities, is a bold step toward inclusivity. By acknowledging that different communities have different learning needs and access levels, the Commission has taken a meaningful approach that moves away from one-size-fits-all solutions.

Particularly inspiring is the focus on youth. Democracy Clubs in schools are more than just extracurricular activities- they are spaces where the seeds of citizenship are sown. When young people begin to see themselves not just as students but as participants in a democratic system, they carry that sense of agency into adulthood. However, the absence of civic education in the formal curriculum remains a missed opportunity. A nation’s future depends on what it teaches its children, and the formal integration of civic learning would be a significant leap forward.

Beyond the youth, reaching remote and rural communities where access to information is often sparse is both a logistical and moral imperative. The use of Training of Trainers programs to cascade knowledge to the grassroots is a strategic move, but its sustainability depends heavily on continued investment and local government support. Budget constraints have slowed down progress in some regions- a challenge that deserves serious attention. Strengthening democracy should never be limited by lack of funds.

Moreover, the shift from episodic civic engagement before elections to continuous year-round education reflects a maturing democratic ethos. It signals a recognition that democracy is not an event, but a process. It lives in town halls and village meetings, in classrooms and community centers, in the act of asking questions and demanding accountability. It lives in the understanding of rights, but also in the willingness to fulfill civic duties.

However, civic education must not become a box to be checked. It must evolve constantly, reflect current realities, and remain engaging. The ECB’s exploration of digital platforms and interactive content to reach young audiences is a move in the right direction. In an age where misinformation spreads quickly, arming citizens- especially the youth- with knowledge and critical thinking skills is not just a necessity, it is a safeguard for democracy.

Bhutan’s democratic journey is still unfolding. As the CEP expands across the country, its true success will not be measured by the number of sessions conducted or materials distributed, but by the emergence of a generation that understands, values, and defends democratic principles. This is how we deepen democracy- not in grand declarations, but in informed, everyday participation.