Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
While Bhutan promotes itself internationally as a land of harmony and spiritual balance, religious freedom within the country is significantly restricted. Buddhism is privileged as the state’s cultural foundation, leaving non-Buddhist communities — particularly Hindus and Christians — with limited space to practise their faiths openly. 

These restrictions not only marginalise minority groups but also undermine Bhutan’s commitments to democracy and human rights. For many, migration abroad becomes the only means to freely observe their religion. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Religion has long played a central role in Bhutan’s identity, with Drukpa Kagyu Buddhism tied closely to the monarchy and state institutions. This intertwining of religion and politics has given Buddhism a dominant position in society. 

During the “One Nation, One People” campaign of the late 1980s and early 1990s, policies of cultural homogenisation marginalised non-Buddhist groups, particularly the Nepali-speaking Hindu Lhotshampa community. Since then, Christian converts and Hindu groups have continued to face restrictions on religious practice and representation. 

Page 3 — Forms of Religious Restrictions 
Religious minorities in Bhutan face multiple challenges: 

- Registration barriers: non-Buddhist groups struggle to obtain official recognition. 
- Restrictions on worship: bans on building churches or temples without government approval. 
- Harassment: converts to Christianity often face discrimination and surveillance. 
- Unequal treatment: Buddhist institutions receive state support, while others do not. 
- Cultural assimilation: policies pressure minorities to conform to Buddhist traditions. 

These practices hinder the ability of minority communities to practise their faith freely. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Citizens and Society 
For individuals, restrictions on religion result in alienation, stigma, and sometimes forced migration. Minority groups are excluded from equal participation in society and struggle to pass on traditions to younger generations. 

For Bhutanese society, privileging one religion undermines the principle of equality and creates resentment among minority communities. Internationally, Bhutan’s reputation suffers as human rights organisations continue to highlight its failures to protect religious freedom. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Protecting religious freedom is essential for Bhutan’s democratic credibility and social harmony. 

Key steps include: 
- Legal reforms: guarantee equal recognition of all religions. 
- Registration rights: allow non-Buddhist groups to register without undue restrictions. 
- Ending discrimination: ensure equal access to education, jobs, and services for all faiths. 
- Cultural pluralism: celebrate Bhutan’s diversity rather than enforce assimilation. 
- International support: work with global rights organisations to strengthen protections. 

Until such steps are taken, restrictions on religious practice will continue to limit freedoms in Bhutan, leaving many citizens unable to fully enjoy their fundamental rights.