Introduction and Deliberation on the Review Report on the State of Media
During
the 11th Sitting of the National Council, the Social and Cultural Affairs
Committee (SCAC) presented its review report on the State of Media in Bhutan.
The committee recognized the need for this review following His Majesty the
King’s Royal Kasho granted to the Bhutan Media Foundation on 21st February
2010, which emphasized the media's essential role in fostering a vibrant
democracy.
Hon'ble Kesang Chuki Dorjee, Chairperson of the SCAC, presented the report, which outlined its background, objectives, methodology, findings, and recommendations. The report aimed to review Bhutan’s media legislation, assess the impact of government interventions, and explore strategies to support independent journalism.
She noted Bhutan’s significant decline in the World Press Freedom Index, which fell from 33rd in 2021 to 147th in 2023, reflecting challenges in the political, legal, economic, and sociocultural landscapes.
She also highlighted critical challenges faced by media houses, including financial instability, outdated regulatory frameworks, limited access to information, and inadequate support for media professionals.
To address these issues, the committee recommended re-establishing an independent Media Council, creating a strategic roadmap for media sustainability, and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for information sharing and regular media development assessments.
During deliberations, the House supported the four recommendations proposed by the committee. However, following additional submissions from some members regarding one section of the recommendations, the House tasked the SCAC with revisiting this aspect in consultation with the concerned members. The House is set to adopt the report and its final recommendations on December 5, 2024.
Representatives from various media houses also attended the session.
