Gross National Happiness

The beginnings of Gross National Happiness (GNH)

As early as the 17th century, the leaders of united Bhutan proclaimed "If the government cannot create happiness for its people, then there is no reason for the government to exist." A fairly revolutionary statement for a monarchy.

In the 1970s, the fourth king finally declared Gross National Happiness to be an important factor that stands above Gross National Product. This king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, thus coined the term significantly. Since his statement, the country's development plans and policies have been oriented towards the individual happiness of the people.

Clear rules for the economy, health, promotion of environmental protection, history and education were drawn up. In 2008, this pursuit of Gross National Happiness was even anchored in Bhutan's constitution. The goal is ambitious: the people of Bhutan should soon be among the happiest in the world.

The definition of Gross National Happiness

Surprisingly, there is no official definition of gross national happiness. However, the following description is commonly found:

"Gross national happiness (in contrast to gross national product) represents the idea that the progress of a sustainably cohesive society depends on achieving a balance between material and emotional well-being. A holistic interplay of spiritual, cultural, as well as material sources of inspiration promotes the positive development of individuals who feel valued and perceived as part of society. This contributes to the quality of a mentally healthy society and thereby a strong nation."

Unlike the economic focus of gross national product, gross national happiness also addresses "soft factors".

The concept of "Gross National Happiness" - is based on four pillars.

1. Good governance

2. Sustainable development of society and economy

3. Preservation of cultural values

4. Environmental conservation

How is happiness measured?

Because the pillars of the "Gross National Happiness Commission" concept are difficult to measure, nationwide surveys are conducted every 2 to 3 years by the Centre for Bhutan Studies. These aim to determine whether the residents of Bhutan perceive happiness in their lives as increasing or decreasing.

Comprehensive questionnaires address areas such as educational opportunities, politics, and economics. Measures include individual mental well-being, self-perceived health as well as measurable health condition, personal and familial education, and also one's own standard of living as well as the governance of the authorities. All of this, just to outline:

Are the Bhutanese people happy? The measured changes from the previous survey then directly impact life in Bhutan.

The idea from Bhutan's royal house: government frameworks and personal efforts

Yet in the land surrounded by mountains, a happy life is not only a declared state goal. Because the government creates the conditions for improvements, at the same time, every individual resident of Bhutan is called upon to take their life into their own hands. Thus, selfishness, envy, and anger should be avoided as much as possible by every Bhutanese resident. Instead, everyone should increasingly turn to positive emotions and make meaningful use of their time in spiritual activities.

Participation in social life, individual slowing down of daily life, and sufficient sleep are also intended to enhance Bhutan's well-being on a small scale. The perception of a happy life should not be seen as a short euphoric state but as a long-term, enduring experience, a kind of attitude towards life that can be learned.

The fundamental principle intended to bring happiness to the residents of Bhutan is that each individual causes as little suffering as possible. Furthermore, they should strive to bring about the greatest possible happiness in the world - for themselves, the present, and all future generations.

The government officials of Bhutan are convinced: anyone who adheres to these guidelines will experience happiness in everyday life and contribute to general well-being.

Gross National Happiness Commission

If you want detailed information about Bhutan's Gross National Happiness, the four pillars, and current developments, you can educate yourself and find information on the website of the Gross National Happiness Commission.

"Happiness is a place" - Happiness has a name: Bhutan

Join us in visiting the Land of the Thunder Dragon and experience for yourself whether happiness radiates from every place and person here. In any case, you will observe a unique blend of cultural heritage and future, of originality and development.