A/HRC/13/11
19.
The delegation emphasized that the issue of the people in the refugee camps in
eastern Nepal is a complex humanitarian problem compounded by the mass movement of
people across porous borders. The delegation reiterated the government’s commitment to
finding a lasting solution through the bilateral process. This notwithstanding, Bhutan
continues to face the threat of terrorism, posed by violent extremist groups from the refugee
camps. Bhutan does not have the means to deal with such groups whose expressed
objectives are to destabilize the country.
20.
The delegation highlighted Bhutan’s serious concerns over the effects of climate
change. Despite its efforts, climate change and its impacts such as Glacial Lake Outburst
Floods, erratic weather patterns, and rising cases of vector borne diseases endanger the
most basic human rights of its people.
21.
While recognizing and appreciating the important role of non-governmental
organizations in advancing the cause of human rights, the delegation expressed concern
over the stakeholders compilation submitted by six organizations. Numerous United
Nations resolutions and the Human Rights Council’s institution-building package recognize
that information they submit must be from “credible and reliable” sources. However, the
delegation regretted that they were special-interest organizations based outside and
unfamiliar with the situation in Bhutan. They relied on second and third-hand accounts,
now outdated, and originating from individuals with politicized and personal agendas.
22.
Despite challenges, the delegation expressed Bhutan's determination to continue
pursuing the full range of human rights and fundamental freedoms, in accordance with
human rights treaty obligations.
23.
Bhutan recognized that as a parliamentary democracy, substantial financial and
human resources are required to strengthen democratic institutions, and educate Bhutanese
on their rights and duties. It sought the constructive support and cooperation of the
international community to further protect and promote human rights in Bhutan.
B.
Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
24.
During the interactive dialogue, 53 delegations made statements. Eight delegations
were not able to make their statements.1 A number of States expressed appreciation for the
delegation’s comprehensive presentation and well prepared national report. They
commended Bhutan’s peaceful transition to a parliamentary democracy and the results of
reforms, including the adoption of a written constitution in 2008, which strengthens human
rights protection. A number of states congratulated Bhutan on the success of its unique
approach to development that has been pursued over the past four decades, influenced by
the philosophy of GNH. The text of the recommendations made during the dialogue
appears in section II of this report.
25.
The Lao People’s Democratic Republic, as a fellow least developed country and a
landlocked developing country, welcomed the significant progress in the promotion of the
rights of Bhutan’s population to political, social and economic development and human
rights. It made recommendations.
26.
Myanmar congratulated Bhutan for her peaceful political transition. It appreciated
measures taken on the efforts to guarantee the independence of judicial systems and asked
Bhutan to share insight on steps taken in that regard and sought further information on the
1
United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Maldives, Jordan, Nigeria, Colombia, Syrian Arab Republic and
Djibouti.
5
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