THIMPHU – Bhutan’s media sector stands at a crossroads, balancing constitutional guarantees of press freedom with mounting practical challenges, according to a comprehensive 2025 Rapid Assessment Survey conducted by the Journalists’ Association of Bhutan (JAB).
With responses from 80 percent of the country’s registered journalists, the study offers an in-depth look into the current state of journalism across the nation. The survey reveals a media environment marked by financial instability, which threatens the sector’s sustainability and independence.
Private media outlets, in particular, are struggling with narrow profit margins due to declining advertising revenues and increased dependence on government subsidies.
Recent government austerity measures, such as shifting public notices to electronic procurement systems, have further squeezed their revenue streams, leading to the closure of regional bureaus, staff reductions, and diminished local coverage.
Access to public information remains a significant obstacle, with nearly 80 percent of journalists reporting bureaucratic barriers that hinder their work. Regulations like the ACC’s Model Public Service Code of Conduct and RADA have fostered a climate of reluctance among civil servants to engage with the media, further complicating information gathering.
The absence of a Right to Information Act, supported by 90 percent of survey participants, highlights the need for legal reforms to promote transparency. Self-censorship is widespread, with 80 percent of journalists admitting to avoiding sensitive topics out of fear of reprisal, legal consequences, or management pressure.
The concentration of leadership roles, where nearly half of media houses combine CEO and editor-in-chief positions, also raises concerns about conflicts of interest and editorial independence. The dissolution of the Media Council in 2023 has further weakened self-regulation and public trust in the media.
Despite these hurdles, the resilience of Bhutan’s journalists remains evident. Over 83 percent expressed a strong commitment to continue their profession, demonstrating their dedication to serving the public interest. The survey’s findings highlight urgent needs for reform.
Key recommendations include establishing a Media Endowment Fund to support independent journalism, enacting a Right to Information Act to improve transparency, reintroducing an independent press council to bolster self-regulation, and strengthening legal protections for journalists.
As Bhutan navigates these challenges, the commitment of its media professionals offers hope for a more robust and independent press sector in the future.
The report was launched on May 10, 2025.