Averting youth exodus: Rebuilding Bhutan by investing in its future

Like many developing nations, Bhutan stands at a crossroads, grappling with the heartbreaking exodus of its youth.

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This is more than just migration; it is a tale of deferred dreams, unrealized potential, and the loss of a vibrant future generation. At its core, this is not merely an economic crisis – it is deeply human. Bhutan's youth are leaving because they yearn for something fundamental: security, belonging, and opportunity.

The reality is stark. When young Bhutanese seek opportunities elsewhere, they are not pursuing wealth for its own sake. They are searching for dignity, stability, and life's simple joys – a home they can call their own, food on the table, access to quality education, reliable healthcare, and the occasional indulgence in modest comforts. Yet, the current GDP-driven economic model has failed to meet these basic needs. Instead, the pursuit of higher income levels without building an inclusive and nurturing system has only deepened the divide between the privileged few and the struggling many. This misguided focus leaves countless young people trapped in a cycle of frustration and despair.