Bhutan’s eco-tourism sector is promoting conservation, economic opportunities, and cultural heritage preservation, particularly for rural women, through community-based initiatives and eco-lodges. Bhutan has established robust policies to support eco-tourism, addressing challenges such as sustainability, local ownership, accessibility, and low footfall in remote sites. Women’s Economic Empowerment in Rural South Asia: Sustainable Pathways, a regional conference that took place in Thimphu from May 8 to 10, was where she made her remarks. More than 100 people from all around South Asia attended the event, including researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and grassroots women leaders, to discuss how to strengthen the involvement of women in rural tourism and commerce.
Panel discussions highlighted policy’s role in empowering rural women, promoting sustainable tourism, and fostering responsible practices. They called for an integrated policy approach connecting tourism, gender equity, and rural development. The conference, organized by South Asia Women’s Network, Trans-Himalayan Environment Program Nepal, International Development Institute, and Tarayana Foundation, highlights Bhutan’s eco-tourism commitment and women’s leadership for sustainable development.