The social, economic, political, and religious right for women

I strongly accord that Bhutanese women are leveraging rights at every levels of economic, political, and religious platforms. Bhutan is blessed with rich culture and tradition which are vibrantly interwoven with Buddhist practices and ethos. Since the budding days of Buddhism, women enjoyed equal opportunity in practicing Buddhism. Thereafter, with the advent of Buddhism in the country which was further strengthened by the arrival of Guru Rinpoche has paved the single path for both men and women. The equality of gender was so evident since the time of Lord Buddha. There was a proper institution of Gelongpha and Gelongma, whereas it still continues as we could see so many monasteries dedicated for nuns, many Geyshemas, Khandos, Deyloms, and also few women Rinpoches. It is further reiterated by one good example that is the stronghold of the Dudjom Throema Tshogpa mostly headed by women. 

Social rights are equally bestowed upon women as everyone are equal before the law of the land. Unlike elsewhere in the past, Bhutanese society has found uniform culture wherein the family is led by either male or female. Our culture is such that parents bequeath equal share of their inheritance for male and female child alike. Women has equal say in the society and even government has instituted special agency (NCWC) to address the issues pertaining Child and women in particular. Women’s right are emphasized so much so that RENEW and BENEW are also established to empower women in the country. 

As democracy is strongly taking root in the country, so is women’s participation in its process. Irrespective of gender,voting franchise can be availed by all whoever have attained the age of 18. And anyone, both men and women who have an undergraduate qualification can join the political party and are free to contest from the respective constituencies. Everyone can take part in the decision making process. The statistics of women serving in various executives, MPs, NCs and even as a Lyonpo serves clear testimonial for the political rights being enjoyed equally by women in the country. 

Men and Women equally contribute towards the growth of our economy. As we walk down the Thimphu city, one could come across more women shopkeepers than male. Women outnumbers as an entrepreneurs in the country. Women are empowered through various training programs to initiate and start new business whereas some just capitalize upon their skills like weaving and embroidery and generate good income to live a descent life. Having right doesn’t mean having an authority to speak from above or scold someone. If one is given an opportunity to follow one’s own dream and can do anything as per the law to achieve, it can be the evidence of having right.