In a pivotal move to safeguard vulnerable women and children, UNICEF Bhutan and the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) inaugurated the 20th Women and Child Protection Desk (WCPD) in Lhuentse on November 23. This milestone underscores Bhutan’s nationwide commitment to combating violence against its most susceptible populations.
The urgent need for such protection mechanisms is starkly highlighted by the heart-wrenching story of eleven-year-old Karma (name changed). After the tragic loss of her mother, Karma found herself under the care of her biological father, where she endured years of abuse. For a long time, Karma suffered in silence, too afraid to speak out about the torment she faced daily. Her ordeal only came to light when she confided in a compassionate teacher at her school, who promptly reported the case to the RBP.
Despite the bravery it took to report her abuse, Karma faced a daunting challenge: she had nowhere safe to go. Returning to her home would have meant a return to danger, potentially exposing her to further harm. Karma’s plight is a poignant reminder of the broader struggles faced by many children and women who suffer from abuse, often feeling trapped with no avenue for escape or support.
The establishment of the WCPD in Lhuentse marks a significant advancement in Bhutan’s efforts to provide comprehensive support to abuse survivors. With this new desk, every dzongkhag across the country now has access to these crucial protection centers. Staffed by trained professionals, the WCPDs are equipped to respond to and prevent violence, offering a lifeline to the most vulnerable members of society.
“We did our best with what we had, but without a dedicated space for women and children facing abuse or legal challenges, it was always a struggle,” explained a police official. “Now, with the establishment of the WCPD, we can offer vulnerable women and children the care and support they deserve in a safer environment.”
Ngawang Lhamo, the gender and child focal person of Lhuentse Dzongkhag Administration, emphasized the importance of the WCPD, stating, “Women and children often don’t know where to report or who to consult when they face violence. We are happy that now victims at least have a space to open up.”
Domestic violence in Lhuentse has been a growing concern, with reports of physical abuse, battery, and sexual violence on the rise. Contributing factors such as alcohol abuse, lack of education, financial struggles, and dependency make it increasingly difficult for victims to escape their abusers. Menbi Gup Ngawang Dhendup highlighted that children from challenging backgrounds and those with prior legal conflicts can now access essential services within the dzongkhag. “Women and children are the heart of our community, and their safety and well-being must always be our priority,” he affirmed. “This dedicated facility will ensure they have a safe space to access the care and services they need, empowering them to live with dignity and security.”
Since the beginning of the year, the Lhuentse police have recorded 24 cases, including 11 related to women and children, underscoring the critical need for robust protection services. During the WCPD inauguration, Andrea James, UNICEF Bhutan Representative, lauded the RBP for ensuring round-the-clock access to essential protection services for vulnerable populations. “As the first responder to protection services, the WCPDs enable the RBP with a dedicated space to support and ensure the safety of women and children,” James remarked. “These services are not only life-saving but also offer vulnerable women and children hope and resilience to rebuild their lives.”
Colonel Phub Gyaltshen, Additional Chief of Police, expressed gratitude to UNICEF for their invaluable support and partnership. “The WCPDs play a crucial role in providing a safe and supportive environment for women and children, ensuring they receive the protection and assistance they deserve,” he stated.
The RBP, with UNICEF’s support, has established protection desks in the main police stations of every district and set up additional Women and Child Protection Units in urban centers like Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing. This year alone, two more protection desks were inaugurated in Gasa and Pemagatshel. Since the first WCPD was established at Thimphu Police Station in 2007, a total of 12,654 women and 3,748 children who were victims of gender-based violence have received support from these desks and units.
The WCPDs address a range of issues, including domestic violence, and provide referrals to shelters and psychosocial support services. For children like Karma, the newly established WCPD in Lhuentse represents a beacon of hope, ensuring that their cries for help are heard and that they have access to the protection and support they need to rebuild their lives.
As Bhutan continues to expand its network of Women and Child Protection Desks, the future looks brighter for countless individuals who can now seek refuge and assistance in times of need.
