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UN Backed by 68 Countries Calls for Holistic Approach to Development, Focusing on Sustainable Happiness and Wellbeing

In April 2012, the United Nations (UN) called upon its member states to adopt a holistic approach to development, prioritizing sustainable happiness and wellbeing. This landmark decision was made during the UN High-Level Meeting on “Happiness and Wellbeing: Defining a New Economic Paradigm,” which brought together world leaders, experts, civil society, and spiritual leaders to develop a new economic framework centered on sustainability and wellbeing.

Bhutan’s Efforts Against Corruption

In line with this vision, Bhutan has made significant strides in combating corruption. The country has implemented various measures to tackle the issue, including the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

Anti-Corruption Commission’s Performance

• In its first 10 years of operation, the ACC dealt with 4,333 complaints.
• Conducted 148 investigations and secured a conviction rate of 90%.
• Around 60% of the commission’s funding comes from development partners.

Notably, the ACC has also prosecuted senior officials, including the speaker of the National Assembly and home minister, on charges related to administrative lapses.

Challenges Faced by Anti-Corruption Commission

Despite its impressive performance, the ACC faces several challenges, including:

• Significant backlog of cases
• Assessment by Transparency International in 2015 found that the commission required more support in prosecuting corruption cases, including greater resources and better coordination with law enforcement agencies.

Royal Audit Authority’s Role in Fighting Corruption

The Royal Audit Authority (RAA) is another key institution in Bhutan’s fight against corruption. The RAA is responsible for auditing and reporting on the efficiency and effectiveness of public resource utilization. At times, it has been highly critical of policy implementation, highlighting areas that require improvement.

Conclusion

Bhutan’s efforts to combat corruption are a testament to its commitment to promoting sustainable happiness and wellbeing. While challenges remain, the country’s progress is encouraging, and its institutions, such as the ACC and RAA, play crucial roles in ensuring accountability and transparency. As the UN continues to emphasize the importance of happiness and wellbeing, Bhutan’s experiences can serve as an inspiration for other countries seeking to develop a more holistic approach to development.