The number of Bhutanese women participating in politics has been very negligible. A nationwide survey by the Institute of Management Studies revealed that domestic obligation and lack of self-confidence are the two major reasons for lesser participation of women in politics.
The current parliament has only 10 women members as against 62 men. The situation is no better in the local government with only about 100 women representatives of the total of more than 1000 leaders.
A member of the National Council, Sangay Zam, says that women are ‘downplayed’ because everybody says men and women are equal in Bhutan. “It is a misperception,” she says adding that because of such facts women don’t participate and even those who participate could not make it. “The end result tells us loud and clear that the system is not right for women. It is challenging to have to compete in a world made by men folks.”
“Well I have not faced many challenges as a women MP but as a young mother at times it was difficult to balance between political career and family. Otherwise, it was an advantage with support from both young and old generation,” says MP Karma Lhamo.
What needs to be done to encourage women participation in politics? Since Bhutan’s transition to Constitutional democracy, the issue of introducing gender quotas for women in politics has come up every now and then. Karma Lhamo says there is a need to study whether the quota system is applicable to Bhutan.
“I think we need to research and analysis. In some countries, it might have worked and had the positive impact but we need to research.”
However, Sangay Zam says that quota reservation is very important if women are to fully explore their potential. She expressed concerns that without a quota system, all other plans like education and awareness will take a long time. She said it will be difficult to catch up with the men.
“Quota reservation is not only the solution. It must be backed by the support services. We must be clear that quota reservation is also not Constitutional, unfortunately.”
She says that the next election is around the corner. “Womenfolks who are concerned must come up with ideas. They must demand certain rules. Women must put such pressure to political parties to make room for women.”
While the quota discussion continues…will Bhutan see more number of women contesting in the next election? That is something to ponder upon as Bhutan observed the International Women’s Day yesterday.
Addressing the gathering in Punakha, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Sangay Choden Wangchuck, said it is a day when women are recognised for their achievement. Her Majesty added that it is an occasion to look back at the past struggles and achievements, and more importantly for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women.
The theme this year was ‘Empowering Women-End of Hunger and Poverty’.
