Bhutan’s Hidden Crises: Human Trafficking, Illegal Trade, and Financial Crimes
Amidst the serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Bhutan, hidden crises are brewing. This tiny Himalayan nation, known for its commitment to environmental conservation and peace, is facing growing challenges with human trafficking, illegal trade, and financial crimes.
Human Trafficking: The Vulnerable Children
Children in Bhutan, who are legally allowed to work from the age of 14, are susceptible to:
- Domestic servitude
- Forced labor
- Sexual exploitation
Human traffickers exploit both domestic and foreign victims within the country and send Bhutanese women to nations like Iraq and Oman for forced labor. The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the issue due to the increase in unregistered foreign recruitment agencies operating through social media.
Illegal Trade: Logging, Counterfeit Goods, and Tobacco
Bhutan’s market for illegally traded goods includes local products and counterfeit imports. Illicit logging is a major issue in areas like Gelephu, Samtse, Paro, and the Manas National Park, making it a significant source and transit country for timber smuggling. Counterfeit goods, mostly from China and India, are also circulated within the country.
- Logging: Alleged collusion between local tribes, India’s timber mafia, and corrupt officials
- Counterfeit Goods: High demand and smuggling activities along the Bhutan-India border
Despite the ban on tobacco products since 2004, a black market thrives due to the high demand. The pandemic led to the temporary lifting of the ban on tobacco sales due to an increase in smuggling activities.
Environment: Collusion Between Officials and India’s Timber Mafia
In Bhutan, local tribes allegedly collude with India’s timber mafia and corrupt officials to carry out large-scale illicit logging and tree smuggling, undermining its extensive conservation efforts. The country also serves as a source and transit country for the illicit caterpillar fungus trade and wildlife poaching.
Financial Crimes: Favouritism in Public Procurement and Cyber-Enabled Fraud
Bhutan’s financial crimes are driven by the tourism industry and the expanding digital economy. Public sector corruption is relatively low, with favourierement and nepotism in public procurement being common. In the private sector, nepotism and favouritism also fuel financial corruption. Cyber-enabled financial crimes, such as phishing, are on the rise as well.
Criminal Actors: Local and International Organized Crime
Criminal networks operating in Bhutan involve local groups in activities like gold smuggling, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and wildlife poaching. Foreign mafia-style groups have been expanding their territory into Bhutan, particularly in the illegal logging market.
In conclusion, Bhutan’s commitment to combating organized crime and corruption remains essential, especially in addressing growing concerns related to human trafficking, illegal trade, and financial crimes. By strengthening its legal framework and collaborating with international partners, Bhutan can effectively tackle these complex challenges and preserve its peaceful and prosperous future.