Bhutan

Bhutan has never participated in any UN peacekeeping operations. The reason relies on its internal political environment. The Wangchuk hereditary monarchy has wielded power since 1907 (BBC 2006h, par. 1). This has created internal problems where social participation in the political life has not been possible. But Bhutan looks set to make the switch to a parliamentary democracy (Ibid.). This will increase the changes to have a more active participation in international affairs. The king says he will relinquish power in 2008, ushering in democratic elections and the ascendancy of the crown prince to the throne (Ibid.). A draft constitution envisages a two-chamber parliament (Ibid.).

Initial variables of the data collection process:

UN/UN peacekeeping policy reform
No record.

Perception of peacekeeping
Television was introduced only in 1999, because for years Bhutan had a deliberate policy of isolation, fearing that outside influences would undermine its absolute monarchy, freedom and culture (Ibid., par. 10). Thus, it is not likely that its population is aware about peacekeeping.

Domestic political environment
Political reform will be a priority in 2007-08 as Bhutan undergoes a transition from absolute monarchy to parliamentary democracy (EIU 2006bd, 1). The crown prince, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, will be installed as monarch after his father, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, abdicates in 2008 (Ibid.). The country will then hold its first general election (Ibid.).

Domestic economic environment
Spending on health and education will be prioritized in the budget for fiscal year 2006/07 (July-June) (Thomson 2006b, par. 5). Domestic revenue will be boosted by electricity sales to India (Ibid.). Negotiations to join the WTO are progressing (Ibid.). While many countries see tourism as a strong source of revenues, tourism is restricted; visitors must travel as part of a pre-arranged package or guided tour (BBC 2006h, par. 7). Backpackers and independent travelers are discouraged despite the fact that Bhutan’s ancient Buddhist culture and breathtaking scenery make it a natural tourist attraction (Ibid.).

Military affairs
The armed forces consist of the Royal Bhutan Army, the National Militia, the Royal Bhutan Police, body guards, and a paramilitary force (Thomson 2006b, par. 8). The army is trained and equipped by India (Ibid.). In 2001 military expenditures were $9.3 million, or 1.9% GDP (Ibid.).

Foreign policy
International relations are focused around India (EIU 2006g, 8).

Under the Indo-Bhutan friendship treaty of 1949, Bhutan agreed that its external affairs would be guided by India Bhutan is careful to nurture its relationship with India, which is also its main donor. According to an agreement signed with India in January 2005 Bhutan will receive financial assistance for its ninth development plan, which started in July 2002. There are concerns in Bhutan about the protection of its national sovereignty, given the vast disparity in size with its neighbors. (Ibid., 8-9)

Bhutan also has relations with China.

While India remains Bhutan’s largest donor and main development partner, the country’s relationship with China has been improving. The two countries do not have formal diplomatic relations, but China and Bhutan have conducted 17 rounds of high-level border talks since 1984. In April 2004, a significant step forward was announced with the decision to form a technical group to finalize the boundary lines in two areas under dispute. (Ibid., 9)

Bhutan has established bilateral relations with 22 countries and 45 international agencies (Ibid., 8). It has resident embassies in India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Kuwait, and permanent missions to the UN in New York and Geneva (Ibid.).

Additional variables found after the preliminary analysis:

Climate changes
No record.

Independent negotiations taken by DPKO to seek troops

No record.

Independent negotiations taken by contributor countries to engage non-contributor countries
The fact that China and India have a strong influence in its foreign policy could mean that both countries could engage Bhutan in peacekeeping.

Meetings organized by other international organizations to engage in dialogue about peacekeeping
No record.