The Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy is Bhutan’s unique approach to development, focusing on holistic well-being over mere economic progress. Conceived by Bhutan’s Fourth King, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in the 1970s, GNH views happiness as a public good that should be nurtured through balanced development.
GNH rests on four pillars:
- Sustainable and Equitable Socioeconomic Development – Ensuring economic growth that benefits all citizens without exploiting natural resources.
- Preservation and Promotion of Culture – Maintaining Bhutan’s rich heritage, traditional practices, and spiritual values.
- Environmental Conservation – Protecting the environment through policies like maintaining at least 60% forest cover.
- Good Governance – Developing an effective, transparent government that upholds the needs of the people.
Bhutan measures its progress through GNH indicators, focusing on the well-being of its people and the environment, rather than just GDP. This philosophy has made Bhutan a global example of an alternative development model that prioritizes collective happiness and sustainability.
