This year, the country recorded the lowest number of reported sexual offence cases with 87 incidents. This is according to data from the Royal Bhutan Police. The RBP attributes this decline to increased public awareness and implementation of measures by relevant agencies dedicated to addressing the issue.
Over the past four years, 469 sexual offence cases were reported to the police. There were 131 cases in 2021, 111 in 2022, 140 in 2023 and 87 cases in 2024, with last year seeing the highest numbers.
Most of these cases involved the rape of a child above 12 years, followed by incidents of child molestation, sexual harassment and statutory rape.
The data shows that most of the individuals who reported the cases are students and those unemployed.
Additionally, the majority of the perpetrators were known to the individuals who reported the cases, including boyfriends, relatives, and family members, among others.
Of the 87 cases reported this year, 14 involved boyfriends and 31 were other known individuals.
In an email response, The PEMA, a nodal agency for mental health in the country, stated that several agencies have already put preventive measures in place.
Efforts focus on protecting survivors from revictimization with safety prioritised at all levels.
Survivors facing immediate threats or risks are quickly removed from unsafe environments and supported through necessary interventions.
If the danger comes from within the family, survivors are relocated to safe spaces, including interim shelters.
Individuals experiencing any form of violence, including sexual offence or need mental health and protection services can contact The PEMA’s helpline at 1098, 1010 or 112.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Sonam Pem
