Thousands of people from the east move to western districts each year, hoping for better economic opportunities. However, many of these migrants struggle more with unemployment than those who stay behind. According to the National Statistics Bureau’s report on internal migration and labour mobility, migrants are nearly twice as likely to be unemployed as those who stayed in their home districts. The report also shows that migrants earn less on average than non-migrants.
For example, a typical migrant often finds work in the service and industry. Despite this, according to the report, migrants earn an average of Nu 22,855 per month, compared to Nu 31,990 for non-migrants. This means that those who never moved are often earning nearly Nu 10,000 more each month than migrants chasing the urban dream.
The challenge becomes even tougher in urban areas where competition is high. The unemployment rate among migrants in urban areas climbs to 5.8 per cent compared to 3.1 per cent in rural areas.
According to the report, the unemployment rate among migrants stands at 4.5 per cent, compared to 2.8 per cent among non-migrants.
The western region, which includes Thimphu, Paro, and Chhukha, has become the primary destination for internal migration, attracting over 55 per cent of migrants.
In contrast, the eastern region, including Trashi Yangtse, Monggar, and Trashigang, experiences a net population loss as most individuals are moving out rather than in. This trend particularly affects younger working-age populations.
According to the report, people aged between 25 and 34 make up the largest share of internal migrants in the country. It also revealed that those with higher education are more likely to move, with migrants more likely to hold Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees.
According to the report, a young person today is expected to make about 13 internal moves over their lifetime.
The findings show that internal migration is not a one-time trend but a steady, ongoing shift that is changing where people live and how Bhutan’s job market operates.
The report surveyed 3,018 households and over 10,000 individuals aged 15 years and above. Of those covered, about 60 per cent were from rural areas and over 40 per cent from urban areas.
Singye Dema
Edited by Sonam Pem
