Development work in bhutan

In Bhutan, we improve livelihoods for women in the most vulnerable positions and strengthen their opportunities for a safe life.

Bhutan is a small landlocked country in South Asia, bordered by China and India. The country has a population of approximately 763,092.

Bhutan is among the world’s least developed countries, and gender equality is not fully realised. Family and gender-based violence is also common, and it is often perceived as part of married life.

Widows, school dropouts, single parents, survivors of domestic violence, and persons with disabilities are in a particularly vulnerable position.

What does Fida do in Bhutan?

Fida improves the livelihoods of women in the most vulnerable positions and strengthens their opportunities for independent decision-making together with the local partner, RENEW.

Fida has carried out development cooperation in Bhutan since 2011 and remains the only Finnish NGO operating in the country.

The work focuses on vocational training that improves women’s livelihoods and reduces poverty. At the same time, it supports the holistic wellbeing and situation of survivors of violence.

Sangay Choden Wangchuck founded RENEW, an organisation focused on preventing gender-based violence and supporting survivors. Thanks to this partnership, trainings and activities are widely known across Bhutan.

What does Fida’s work in Bhutan include?

• Vocational training is provided for women in vulnerable positions to improve their livelihoods.
• The trainings strengthen women’s economic independence and support family wellbeing.
• Together with local decision-makers, trainings are tailored and their practical implementation is ensured, including facilities and post-training employment support.
• Communities receive training on sexual and reproductive health and children’s rights.
• Gender-based violence is addressed by raising awareness of its forms, reporting mechanisms, and available support services.

In the long term, the aim is for more women to live safe lives, improve their livelihoods, and make independent decisions. At the same time, domestic violence decreases and family wellbeing is strengthened.

After completing sewing training, my friend and I founded a sewing company. At first, we faced challenges, however, our customer base has since grown significantly.

Yeshey Denkar, entrepreneur.