As Bhutan commemorated the monumental occasion of the Silver Jubilee of the reign of His Majesty, the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in 1999, a chorus of heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes resonated from global leaders and esteemed development partners, each acknowledging the profound impact His Majesty has had not only on Bhutan but on the world stage. The Silver Jubilee marked not just a celebration of years, but a tribute to a reign that had been transformative, both in Bhutan and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed this remarkable journey.
SENSITIVE MIND AND MODERN OUTLOOK
H.E. Mr. I.K. Gujral, MP
Former Prime Minister of India
Chairman, Foreign Relations Committee
In the contemporary world of evolving political systems, it is rare to encounter a leader like His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, whose sensitive mind and modern outlook sustain the unity of the state and inspire the unwavering loyalty of his people.
I believe the people of Bhutan are fortunate to have His Majesty at the helm during a time of rapid transformation, as nations and societies continue to evolve with advancements in science, technology, and multimedia. Bhutan is no longer a secluded Shangri-La; it is a nation modernizing itself under the direct leadership of a visionary who is not swayed by the allure of borrowed modernism but possesses the wisdom to strike a judicious balance between tradition and progress. Under His Majesty’s guidance, Bhutan has transitioned from the edge of time to the mainstream of global change. While its vision for the future reaches the great heights of the mighty Himalayas, in whose bosom it nestles, its foundation remains firmly rooted in the land that has sustained the Kingdom since its unification in the 17th century.
There may be no other country that so seamlessly combines change with stability, the new with the ancient. The credit for this remarkable equilibrium goes to both the King and the people of Bhutan. The Bhutanese people are gentle, honest, and hardworking, while their King wields power with compassion and humility.
My personal association with Bhutan dates back to the coronation of His Majesty. The golden occasion was celebrated in Bhutan’s characteristic blend of austerity and appropriate grandeur, with the solemnity of the event heightened by the youth of the new King and the dignity with which he ascended the throne. It was the year 1974, and the newly crowned monarch was just 19 years old. Since then, I have had the pleasure of visiting Thimphu and other parts of Bhutan on several occasions, as well as the honor of maintaining a lasting personal friendship with the King. When I assumed office as Prime Minister of India in March 1997, I chose Thimphu as the first foreign capital to visit, a testament to the deep bond between our two nations.
A THOROUGHLY PARTICIPATORY APPROACH
Ms. Mieko Nishimizu
Vice President, South Asia Region, World Bank
It is rare to find a nation, today or in the history of our world, whose people share a clear and dynamic vision rooted in their cultural heritage and common values. It is even rarer to encounter a nation that, through the strength of its conviction, initiates a new paradigm for the transformation of its society—sometimes called “development”—that challenges the world to reconsider established methods of measuring change. This unique nation is the Kingdom of Bhutan, and the ultimate source of its uniqueness lies singularly in the leadership of His Majesty.
I shall never forget October 27, 1997. On that day, I had the honor of an audience with His Majesty. It was on that day that I began to think of “development” and the “development process” with an entirely different mindset. I ceased to think of Gross National Product and other such concepts as appropriate measures of development. I began to think of development as the transformation of a society, by the society, for the society. I started seeing the development process as a constant process of change, in which people choose to gain more control over their own destiny, enrich their lives by broadening their horizons, alleviate the afflictions caused by poverty, and improve their overall quality of life.
I came to understand the peaceful equilibrium of this perpetual process when people embrace the fundamental truth that the only constant in life is change. I can recall, as vividly as if it were just a moment ago, the exact instance when this realization—this “thunder”—struck me during the audience. Stepping out into the sun-drenched courtyard of Tashichho Dzong afterward, an ancient Chinese poem floated across my mind:
“With the best of leaders,
When the work is done,
The project completed,
The people all say,
‘We did it ourselves.'”
— Tao Te Ching
The World Bank has been invited to be a partner in Bhutan’s own strategic framework for development. This is a privilege my colleagues and I deeply cherish. It is also a challenge that both humbles and energizes us. We honor Bhutan’s living and dynamic strategic framework, which is based on a long-term vision of its own; one that has identified structural barriers to transformation, selected true catalysts for change, and is founded on a participatory process that reaches deeply into society—creating, revising, adopting, and realizing a shared dream.
In joining the people of Bhutan to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s reign, I wish to repeat the very words that conveyed my heartfelt sentiment on that memorable day—one that transformed me as a “development” banker:
“The people of Bhutan are most fortunate to have Your Majesty as their Sovereign King.”
A POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT FAVOURABLE FOR DEVELOPMENT
Mr. E. Werner Kulling
Secretary General, Helvetas, Switzerland
It has been only four decades since the Kingdom of Bhutan emerged from isolation. Since then, the country has undergone remarkable political and social development at an extraordinary pace. None of this would have been possible had Druk Yul and its engaged population not been fortunate to be led with dignity, wisdom, and prudence toward a modern future by a succession of four extraordinary monarchs.
The first 25 years of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck’s reign have been defined by his dedicated service to the people and his visionary philosophy of Gross National Happiness. His leadership has also been marked by respect for human dignity, environmental conservation, a carefully managed approach to opening the country while maintaining its neutrality, prudent economic growth, adherence to good governance, a steadfast commitment to combating corruption, and the gradual, well-considered introduction of decentralization.
Helvetas is grateful to work in a country that provides such a politically and developmentally favorable environment—one that stands above the norm in many other nations where we are active. The people of Switzerland pay tribute to His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, expressing their deep admiration for his leadership. On the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of his Coronation, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and profound gratitude for his exceptional contributions and cooperation with the Swiss people.
PRESERVING THE SPIRIT VITAL TO THE NATION
Lord Wilson of Tillyorn, GCMG
House of Lords,
President, Bhutan Society of the United Kingdom
On behalf of the many friends of Bhutan in the United Kingdom, and especially the members of the Bhutan Society, it is a great pleasure to extend our warmest congratulations on the momentous occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the Coronation of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
These have been 25 significant years in the history of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Throughout this period, His Majesty the King has provided wise and thoughtful leadership, reinforced by his unwavering commitment to the country, its people, its development, and its welfare.
Those of us who observe Bhutan from afar with admiration have witnessed remarkable achievements over these 25 years. The Kingdom has skillfully managed its relationships with neighboring countries, emerging from isolation without compromising its integrity. Development has progressed steadily while traditional values have been preserved and nurtured. Bhutanese students who come to the United Kingdom impress us with their thirst for knowledge, confidence, and deep pride in their own culture.
Under His Majesty’s leadership, Bhutan has embraced a distinctive approach to governance—one that steadily broadens political participation and ensures that development planning is increasingly rooted in the needs and aspirations of ordinary citizens, especially at the village level. These accomplishments inspire great respect.
I first had the pleasure of visiting Bhutan more than 25 years ago. Since then, much has changed and developed, yet the essence of the nation—its spirit and values—has been preserved and strengthened.
As we approach the new millennium, inevitable changes and challenges lie ahead. However, the past 25 years have demonstrated what can be achieved under the wise and dedicated leadership of His Majesty.
A STAR ON THE ASIAN STAGE
Gisela Bonn (1996), Cologne, Germany
(Condensed and translated by Reinhard Wolf, Thimphu)
I have followed the fortunes of King Jigme Singye Wangchuck since 1972. There are individuals in whose lives an entire era is encapsulated. They emerge at the crossroads of cultures and epochs, shaping history. One such person is Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the young King of the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. Quiet and unassuming, without resorting to propaganda, he has become a star on the Asian stage.
His remarkable presence at the Non-Aligned Summit in New Delhi in March 1983 was not his political debut, but it was a breakthrough—an event that does not happen every day. What is true for actors can also apply to politicians, presidents, and kings: intelligence and knowledge, ideas and opinions, gain credibility when expressed by a personality who is both charismatic and distinguished in appearance. The young King possesses both, along with qualities that cannot be learned—self-confidence, natural dignity, composure, and persuasive power.
If the people of the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan—often called Shangri-La, the last paradise—have a message for the world, it is one of harmony between the material and spiritual realms, a concept still deeply cherished by those who dwell in these mountains. The young King has become the spokesperson for this timeless philosophy.
A MAJESTIC STEP
Mr. Pieter Lammers
Director, Foundation Ecooperation, the Netherlands
During my visits to Bhutan, I had the privilege of meeting His Majesty the King on several occasions. In long and open discussions, His Majesty explained the dilemmas and opportunities facing Bhutan. As early as the 1980s, he introduced the concept of Gross National Happiness. Through these conversations, I came to understand his aspirations for his country and people.
His Majesty deeply values history and tradition but does not cling to the past. He recognizes the benefits of development and modernization but does not idealize them and remains keenly aware of their risks. I feel truly privileged to have shared in his wisdom.
Over the past 25 years, Bhutan has undergone tremendous changes, and the pace of transformation in the next 25 years is likely to be even greater. I sincerely hope that Bhutan’s leaders and people will continue to follow a middle path between modernization and tradition. As a “fast developer,” Bhutan can learn from the experiences of other nations.
Bhutan has been blessed with a monarch who, in a remarkably short period, has led the country from feudal isolation into the modern world. His leadership has been guided by the principles of participation and democracy—not just for the people, but always by the people. A historic step in this democratization process was taken in 1998 when His Majesty voluntarily stepped back from the day-to-day governance of the country, as a modern head of state should.
I hope that the people of Bhutan and their elected representatives will continue to draw upon His Majesty’s great wisdom.
DEVELOPMENT FOR ALL
Peter Nicholas (World Bank Economist) & Colleen Nicholas, Washington, D.C.
His Majesty’s unique and courageous approach to development is a great gift not only to his people but to the world. Through his leadership and personal example, His Majesty has demonstrated the true meaning of service to one’s country. As visitors, we are heartened by the deep sense of commitment to Tsa-Wa-Sum that we encounter at every turn. Officials at all levels are dedicated, thoughtful, and hard-working, but above all, they are clearly working for their King and country rather than for personal gain.
In too many cases elsewhere, officials assume they know best or view government service as a means of personal enrichment. In Bhutan, however, His Majesty’s regular visits to each dzongkhag and the open meetings he holds there have fostered a genuinely participatory approach to development. In other countries, roads, irrigation canals, or schools may be built based on government decisions alone. In Bhutan, however, the Royal Government consults the people at every stage—from the preparation of the Five-Year Plans to program design and individual project implementation.
At the same time, His Majesty has ensured that development does not destroy more than it creates. He has emphasized the continuation of a living culture rather than merely preserving it in museums or as an architectural relic that must be protected due to lost craftsmanship. The Rigney School and Institute, the Traditional Medicine Hospitals, the National Library, the Painting School, and now the Centre for Bhutan Studies are all contributing to a dynamic and thriving culture.
His Majesty’s commitment to Gross National Happiness is now recognized and admired worldwide, and there is no clearer sign that he is on the right track than people “voting with their feet.” Unlike in many other developing countries, the vast majority of Bhutanese who study abroad choose to return home—not because they cannot find higher-paying jobs in the West, but because they love their country and their King.
25 YEARS: A BENCHMARK
Dr. Brian Shaw,
Honorary Research Fellow,
Hong Kong University
The duties of any monarch are arduous, especially in a community transitioning from an individualistic to a more interdependent form of endeavor. The past 25 years of rule by the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, represent a full quarter of the tenure of the monarchical institution, which will reach its first centenary in eight and a half years.
Through his personal example of unswerving and public dedication to enhancing the interests of the nation, His Majesty has been faithful to the dreams and hopes of his late, revered father and has enormously strengthened the institution of monarchy as a basis for stability.
Since 1907, and particularly since the time of the Third King, the principal concerns of Bhutan’s leaders have been to ensure the sovereignty and security of the country, to improve the quality of life in Bhutan, and to implement a vision for the future of this country, which itself is subject to constant reassessment as each piece of the dream is realized.
The key to the future development and the strengthening of Bhutan’s unique identity lies in further enhancing the sense of personal responsibility by each citizen, the collective responsibility of each community, and the country as a whole, for the future of society and indeed for the circumstances of daily life.
If we quite rightly speak of the strong moral authority and personal example of the monarch, this moral authority may further evolve to take on the characteristics of the monarchy’s reserve power, as both the common people and those responsible for the daily governance of the country increasingly assume responsibility for shaping the future.
How to encourage this down to the household level is a permanent task for the country’s most forward-looking and selfless citizens.
It is a privilege and an honor to join the citizens and friends of Bhutan on this felicitous occasion to offer Tashi Delek and wish long life to His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
EMBARKING ON A UNIQUE COURSE
Robert J. van Schaik,
Honorary Consul of Bhutan in the Netherlands,
and former Dutch Ambassador to the UN
Bhutan’s development model is interesting in three ways. First, it was less than forty years ago that Bhutan embarked on a process of planned development. The country, therefore, could learn from the errors other countries had made. In particular, it drew the lesson from experiences elsewhere that development should be a gradual process, and that development assistance can only be used effectively if natural resources are preserved and balanced sustainable development is pursued.
Second, Bhutan is aware of its unique identity, the special qualities of its culture, as well as its religious and other traditions. Indeed, without these special characteristics, the country, small as it is, might not have continued to exist. It realizes that modernization—the twin brother of development—should never become a substitute for the country’s cultural heritage, squeezing out the spiritual wealth that makes the country unique.
Third, these last decades have been characterized by what is called “globalization.” Even if the temptation may be great to protect the people and culture from the influences of the modern world, globalization is gaining ground, knocking on people’s doors in all corners of the world. In particular, for a small country such as Bhutan, it is a great challenge to maneuver between the Scylla of a hasty course towards development, risking the destruction of its individuality, and the Charybdis of stagnation and retrenchment, risking the shrinkage of Bhutan’s culture into a folkloristic phenomenon.
What makes the reign of His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck unique is that, in the footsteps of his father, His Late Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, His Majesty, through wise leadership, clearly led the country to the forefront of the modern age. Whilst moving towards the outside world, Bhutan asks the world to allow it to maintain its identity.
The need for decentralization is a theme to which His Majesty attaches great importance. I remember vividly a substantive discussion with His Majesty on this topic. Last year’s important constitutional change, leading to the delegation of decisions and other functions to the level of Ministers and the Assembly, as well as to the district and local levels, appears to herald an era of more modern, pluralistic management.
Humility is characteristic of the Bhutanese mind, as molded by Buddhism throughout the ages. As a foreigner shaped by another cultural background and other traditions, it ill befits me to pass judgment on Bhutan’s achievements beyond the words I have just written. Let it.. therefore suffice to say that, although not a Bhutanese, I myself feel the inspiration of the leadership of a man who 25 years ago embarked on a unique course that had not been charted before.
AN OPTIMUM BALANCE
Akiko Naito-Yuge,
Former Resident Representative of the UNDP in Bhutan;
Presently Professor, Department of Global and Inter-Cultural Studies, Ferris University, Japan
On the auspicious and special occasion of the Silver Jubilee of the Coronation of His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck of Bhutan, I wish to convey my heartfelt congratulations and felicitations.
On this day, I would like to pay my deepest respects to His Majesty the King for his profound vision and dynamic leadership, which have resulted in Bhutan’s most remarkable success in national development over the last quarter of a century. His Majesty’s statement that Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product reflects the clear precedence placed on the happiness of people over economic prosperity in the national development process. Impressively, Bhutan has maintained an optimum balance between sustained economic growth, sustainable human development, improvement in the quality of life of its people, preservation of their cultural heritage, and preservation of the environment.
I truly feel privileged to have been given an opportunity to spend four and a half years of my life in Bhutan while associated with development work. As Bhutan builds on past accomplishments and proceeds with further development, many new challenges lie ahead. With its sound policies and judicious approach, I am certain that Bhutan will not only enter the new millennium with a great stride but will steadily progress on its path towards sustainable human development, based on a clear vision and self-confidence.
On the Silver Jubilee of the Coronation, I sincerely pray for the long reign, good health, peace, happiness, and prosperity of His Majesty the King of Bhutan. May peace and happiness prevail for other members of the Royal Family, all people in Bhutan, and the peoples of the world.
A TRIBUTE TO A WISE SOVEREIGN
His Eminence Sogyal Rinpoche,
Buddhist spiritual master, philosopher, and writer;
Spiritual Director, Rigpa, London
Nothing could be more striking than the pristine, haunting beauty of the landscape of Bhutan, or the atmosphere of peace and sacredness that pervades the land from end to end. Bhutan is a place blessed with an almost magical power to transform the mind; whenever I am there, I feel as if transported into a pure realm. For the Kingdom of Bhutan is truly unique: it is the only independent Mahayana Buddhist country in the world. It has a great Buddhist heritage, stretching back uninterrupted over 1,300 years, and a legacy of more than 2,000 temples, monasteries, dzongs, and sacred sites. Many of the greatest Buddhist saints, like Guru Padmasambhava and the omniscient Gyalwa Longchenpa, have blessed this land, and holy places such as Paro Kyichu Lhakhang and Bumthang Jambay Lhakhang still retain their original form, dating back to the 7th century.
In the Kingdom of Bhutan, the great living tradition of Buddhist practice thrives, and the blessings still remain, unspoiled and quite undiminished. There exists a truly spiritual environment and foundation to life, so rare now in a world that has largely lost its spiritual bearings. This is, I feel, a testimony to the judgment and wisdom of His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck. His family, the members of the Royal House of Bhutan, have been distinguished by their moving devotion to the teachings of Buddha, and the support they have given to the great Buddhist figures of our age, who have included my own masters. I think, for example, of the Queen Mother and her devoted support of His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. In recent times, Bhutan has played a role of singular significance in safeguarding the future of the teachings and practice of Buddhism.
In his wise rulership, I see His Majesty as treading in the footsteps of the legendary Buddhist monarchs of the past, from Ashoka onwards. With his deep concern for his people and their welfare, both spiritual and secular, he has demonstrated how Buddhist values can truly guide the governance of a state. Through Bhutan’s unique system of government, where monasteries are represented in both the National Assembly and the Upper House, it has become clear how, even today, the spiritual and temporal can combine and prove a vitally effective system.
The last 25 years have been marked by remarkable progress in Bhutan, a steady improvement in the standard of living going hand in hand with a reconfirmation of the nation’s identity, independence, and security. While still a developing country, Bhutan can boast a healthcare and education system that is free to all citizens. Yet development and progress have been pursued with the greatest care in order to avoid the ravages of unchecked material exploitation and the harmful aspects of modern influence. Balance has been the keynote, and His Majesty has shown that modernization is possible, while at the same time preserving intact all of Bhutan’s age-old traditions.
One domain in which Bhutan has become a world leader is the conservation of the environment. With 72 percent of the country covered with forests, and with some of the rarest and most beautiful plants in the world, Bhutan stands out as a country where the people share a precise understanding of the crucial importance of their relationship with nature. Another sphere of excellence that must be saluted is Bhutan’s exquisite tradition of sacred art, without question among the finest Buddhist art in the world. Today, the arts in Bhutan are maintained with all their original verve and authenticity and are being faithfully passed down to future generations.
The last quarter of a century has seen a great Buddhist country guided with wise and steady hands. His Majesty has blended his own forward-looking, innovative genius, and his dedication to his people, with a deep respect for the Buddhadharma and a knowledge of the far-reaching importance of spiritual culture. It is this which gives Bhutan its unique character. In a world made ever smaller by modern communications, Bhutan has a vital place in showing the world just what is possible, and how it can be done.
I congratulate His Majesty on his Silver Jubilee and on his achievements. I pray that he will rule for many, many years and bring great benefit to the Dharma, the people of Bhutan, and to the world.