In a world obsessed with numbers, charts, and graphs, Bhutan decided to take a different path. Instead of just counting money and wealth, they focus on happiness. Thus, the concept of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness was born. It’s a fresh approach that measures progress in terms of well-being rather than just economic growth.
Bhutan’s focus on happiness can be seen in many aspects of its culture and traditions, such as the colorful and vibrant Nimalung Tshechu Festival in Bhutan. While planning your next Bhutan Trip, think about how Bhutan’s approach to happiness can set it apart as a truly special destination.
What is Gross National Happiness?
Gross National Happiness (GNH) is a unique way of calculating development. It’s like asking, “How are you doing?” instead of just focusing on GDPs.
GNH is a philosophy that prioritizes happiness and well-being over wealth. The idea was established in 1972 in Bhutan to create a society where people live a balanced life.
At its core, GNH aims to ensure that development benefits everyone. It’s not just about the rich getting richer. Instead, it’s about making sure everyone is happy.
So, if Bhutan were a company, GNH would work as its mission to maximize happiness for all stakeholders.
How Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Originated
The story of GNH began in the 1970s with Bhutan’s 4th king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. He was just 17 when he started ruling.
And instead of following the crowd and focusing only on economic growth, he thought, what if we aim for happiness.
King Jigme Singye Wangchuck believed that GDP (Gross Domestic Product) was too narrow for the measurement of progress.
GDP counts all economic activity, but it doesn’t consider whether people are happy, healthy, or fulfilled.
So, he introduced GNH, a more meaningful measure.
Pillars of Gross National Happiness
1. Sustainable Development
This pillar is all about progress that doesn’t preserve the resources for future generations. Bhutan aims for economic growth that respects the environment or even benefits the environment.
2. Preservation of Cultural Values
Bhutan has its unique culture, traditions, and heritage. This pillar is like a reminder to keep these treasures alive.
Festivals, traditional dances, and the Bhutanese way of life are cherished and preserved by the next generation.
3. Conservation of the Natural Environment
Bhutan takes nature seriously. This pillar focuses on maintaining the beauty of the Himalayas, forests, and rivers.
Bhutan also works hard in initiating new environmentally oriented programs and encouraging the public to preserve this natural beauty of Bhutan.
4. Good Governance
A happy country needs fair and transparent governance. This pillar ensures that the government serves the people effectively, and ensures that everyone is heard.
Domains and Indicators of GNH
Psychological Well-being
This domain checks how people feel about their lives. Are they stressed? It’s like a happiness thermometer.
Health
A healthy population is a happy population. This domain looks at physical and mental health. Think of it as the country’s fitness tracker.
Education
Knowledge is power, and this domain ensures everyone gets a good education.
Time Use
This domain checks how people spend their time to see if people have a good work-life balance.
Good Governance
This domain looks at how well the government is doing its job. It’s like giving the government a report card through surveys.
Sustainable Development
The domain reflects all 3 pillars of sustainability–Environmental, social, and economic. It focuses on the country developing in a good way without ruining the environment or social culture.
Living Standards
This domain looks at the material well-being of people. It ensures everyone has enough to live comfortably.
Each of these domains is measured and these indicators help Bhutan keep track of its happiness levels, ensuring they stay high.
Impact of Gross National Happiness
GNH has had a profound impact on Bhutanese society, economy, and environment.
For instance, it has influenced policies that promote eco-friendly tourism. Instead of allowing mass tourism, Bhutan focuses on high-value, low-impact tourism.
This means fewer tourists but richer experiences.
Education and healthcare have also seen improvements. Schools in Bhutan not only teach academic subjects but also values and skills that contribute to overall well-being.
Healthcare policies ensure that even the most remote areas have access to medical services.
One notable example of GNH’s influence is Bhutan’s decision to become the world’s first carbon-negative country.
This means Bhutan absorbs more carbon dioxide than it produces. They’ve made this through extensive forest conservation and sustainable practices.
Bhutan’s GNH has inspired many countries and international organizations.
Several countries, such as the UAE and New Zealand, have introduced a happiness index inspired by GNH.
Bhutan has been praised at international forums and has become a subject of study for scholars and policymakers worldwide.
Conclusion:
Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness is a holistic measure of progress. It prioritizes well-being over wealth, ensuring that development benefits everyone by focusing on sustainable development, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and good governance, Bhutan sets an example for the world.
