The National Disability Conference 2025 was convened in Paro on 3 December, aligning with the International Day for Persons with Disabilities and its global theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.” The event brought together national and international stakeholders to reflect on Bhutan’s progress and chart pathways toward stronger, more inclusive systems.
The conference featured panel discussions on coordinated service delivery, the shift from welfare-based to rights-based approaches, smoother education transitions, improved early screening and intervention, and strengthened social protection systems. Participants also enjoyed a theatre performance by students from the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf, along with an exhibition of assistive technology, inclusive learning materials, and products created by persons with disabilities.
Bhutan’s recent milestones—including the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities (2019), the expansion of SEN programs, and the 2024 ratification of the UNCRPD—have laid important groundwork. However, gaps remain in early intervention, inclusive education, healthcare access, workplace inclusion, data systems, and social protection services.
The conference gathered representatives from the Office of the Cabinet Affairs and Strategic Coordination, Ministry of Education and Skills Development, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Royal Civil Service Commission, Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law, as well as educators, experts, and partner organizations.
The joint launch of Dra=Nyam and the National Disability Conference underscores a shared commitment to advancing disability inclusion and creating opportunities for meaningful participation across all areas of Bhutanese society.
