UNICEF has been active in Bhutan since the 1980s, supporting programs in child health, nutrition, education, and protection. Key initiatives include school feeding programs, immunization campaigns, and the promotion of child rights legislation.
Overview
UNICEF's engagement with Bhutan began in 1974 with the Rural Water Sanitation and Hygiene Programme in Trashigang and Tsirang. The UNICEF Country Office was formally established on 17 March 1994.[1] In 2024, UNICEF and the Royal Government celebrated 50 years of partnership.[2]
Key Programme Areas
UNICEF Bhutan works across health, nutrition, sanitation, quality education, early childhood care and development (ECCD), child protection, adolescent participation, and social policy.[1]
Achievements
- WASH: Bhutan is now open-defecation-free, with 92% of schools having safe drinking water and 97% having improved sanitation[2]
- ECCD: Enrolment grew from 3% in 2011 to 21% in 2017; three Regional Inclusive ECCD Hubs established in 2023[2]
- Immunisation: Coverage above 95% maintained through 2020[1]
- Education Technology: EU-funded €1 million Education Technology Framework launched in 2025[3]
References
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