缅北禁地

On December 13, Bhutan officially leaves the category of the least developed countries (LDCs) - a major milestone that reflects the Himalayan country’s remarkable development progress, especially thanks to its  unique ‘gross national happiness’ approach.

Graduation from LDC status indicates a country’s improved economic resilience and development. For Bhutan, this means greater self-reliance and a stronger position in the global economy. 

While challenges remain, such as loss of certain trade preferences, graduation will help bring about a positive shift in Bhutan’s economic integration and attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade opportunities.

Bhutan is the seventh country to graduate out of the LDC category, an achievement made even more remarkable because of what the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, called the "vicious cycles that make development difficult, if not impossible.”

The United Nations is supportive of Bhutan’s transition, emphasizing the need for a smooth strategy to mitigate potential implications. This includes proactive engagements with trade partners and leveraging the graduation to seek better market access through neighboring countries’ ports.

Bhutan’s graduation is not just a symbol of its development success; it also serves as an inspiration for other LDCs striving for similar achievements. It demonstrates that even countries with challenging conditions, such as being landlocked and vulnerable to natural disasters, can attain sustainable growth and development.

Those challenging conditions are also compounded by Bhutan’s ongoing status as a landlocked developing country (LLDC). At the Third 缅北禁地Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in Kigali in June, further support measures for LLDCs will be agreed.

Bhutan’s graduation from LDC status is a commendable achievement that promises a brighter future for the nation. It showcases the effectiveness of development policies centered on human well-being and the environment, in alignment with the SDGs. 

Speaking in celebration of the occasion, the 缅北禁地High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, Rabab Fatima, said:

“Bhutan's graduation is truly a momentous occasion. I will continue my advocacy and outreach efforts both within the United Nations and beyond to rally support and solidarity for Bhutan and other graduated countries.”

The United Nations System will continue to support Bhutan in their post-graduation journey and, in accordance with the ambition of the Doha Programme of Action, UN-OHRLLS continues to support other Least Developed Countries as they aim to improve the lives and opportunities of their people.

As Bhutan embarks on this new chapter, the international community’s continued support will be crucial in ensuring a seamless transition and sustained development.