In the vibrant democracy of Bhutan, the media stands as the fourth pillar of the state, a fundamental guardian ensuring that citizens remain informed and empowered to make meaningful decisions. Enshrined in the Constitution, the freedoms of speech and information underscore the media’s indispensable role in fostering a healthy democratic society.
Over the past two decades, Bhutan’s mass media landscape has transformed dynamically, adapting to the nation’s evolving social, political, economic, and environmental contexts. This transformation has been pivotal in nation-building, serving not only the government and policymakers but also the public at large. As Bhutan continues to navigate significant reforms and changes, the media’s role has become even more crucial in shaping public discourse and facilitating informed decision-making among citizens.
An informed populace is the bedrock of a thriving democracy. The media’s responsibility extends beyond mere reporting; it acts as a catalyst for public debate, discussion, and feedback on government policies and decisions. By framing public debates and highlighting specific issues, the media influences public perception and policy responses, thereby maintaining a vital link between the government and the people.
However, the journey towards a robust media landscape in Bhutan is fraught with challenges. Contrary to the common belief that democratization spurs media growth, recent trends suggest a regression. Senior journalists have highlighted a troubling decline in access to information and increasing restrictions on freedom of expression. Bureaucratic reluctance to engage with journalists, often citing regulatory constraints, hampers the media’s ability to deliver accurate and comprehensive information to the public.
Compounding these issues is a significant attrition rate among journalists. A study by the Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies revealed that out of 63 journalists surveyed, nearly half had left the profession in the past five years. This loss not only diminishes the workforce but also erodes the depth and quality of reporting, undermining public trust and weakening democratic processes. Bhutan’s press freedom ranking fell to 147th in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index, a stark decline from its previous position at 90th.
The advent of digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the proliferation of social media, has further complicated the media landscape. Traditional media faces threats from the rapid spread of information through blogs and social platforms, where misinformation can easily proliferate. Politicians and influencers may exploit these technologies, making the media’s role in fact-checking and verification more critical than ever.
Despite these challenges, the significance of media in Bhutan remains undeniable. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the media’s essential role in disseminating accurate information amidst a surge of unverified content on social media. The media’s ability to provide reliable, unbiased information is crucial for maintaining public trust and supporting democratic resilience.
Central to enhancing the media’s effectiveness is the democratization of data and improved access to information. Nearly two-thirds of journalists in Bhutan identify restricted access as a primary obstacle in their work. Ensuring that journalists have the necessary data and resources to produce evidence-based stories is vital for maintaining robust checks and balances within government and other institutions.
To address these issues, there is a pressing need to reinforce media freedom and independence. Establishing a Press Information Bureau within the Prime Minister’s Office, led by an independent secretariat, could enhance transparency and information dissemination. Such institutional support would enable the media to move beyond merely echoing press releases, positioning it as a vigilant monitor of democratic health.
Moreover, the media must adapt to the changing technological landscape by revisiting its foundational principles. Emphasizing professional journalism, combating fake news, and fostering in-depth reporting are essential steps in rebuilding public trust and ensuring the media’s role as a democratic cornerstone.
As Bhutan continues to forge its path as a young democracy, the unity and support of its people are paramount. A fragmented media landscape poses a threat to national cohesion, making the reliance on a strong, independent mainstream media more critical than ever. Investing in media infrastructure and supporting journalists will not only sustain the media’s visibility but also reinforce its essential role in upholding democracy.
