Bhutan’s National Council Advances Legal Reforms for National Development

Bhutan’s National Council is focused on preparing legal reforms to harmonize national laws with the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). During a meeting on February 13, NC members discussed the Royal Address related to legal reforms, outlining key themes such as meritocracy and population empowerment. The Council aims to identify and amend laws as per the needs of the country while integrating Singaporean and Abu Dhabi Global Market regulations into the GMC.

The National Council (NC) of Bhutan is actively preparing for significant legal reforms to enhance the effectiveness of laws and align them with the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). During a meeting on February 13, the NC discussed the Royal Address presented on the 117th National Day, focusing on four key themes: meritocracy and democracy, enlightened entrepreneurial bureaucracy, economic enhancement laws, and population empowerment. His Majesty noted that robust laws are crucial for maintaining order, security, prosperity, and social harmony.

Dago Tsheringla, NC’s Spokesperson and Deputy Chairperson, stated that the NC’s activities would center on realizing the national vision outlined by His Majesty. The Council has commenced a review of existing laws, identifying those requiring consolidation or amendment, as well as those necessitating enactment. In preparation for the summer session, committee members have been tasked to produce comprehensive presentations by April, prioritizing legislative needs.

Additionally, NC intends to engage in extensive discussions with relevant organizations and constitutional offices to synchronize national laws with GMC guidelines. The meeting on February 13 also included presentations of Schedule A and B laws for GMC, effective since December 26, 2024. Under GMC’s governance framework, 18 Singaporean laws and 10 regulations from the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) have been adopted, covering essential aspects like company incorporation and taxation.

Among the Singaporean laws included are the Companies Act 1967, Employment Act 1968, and the Income Tax Act 1947, among others. The adopted ADGM regulations consist of the Financial Services and Markets Regulations 2015, which encompass key frameworks such as Anti-Money Laundering guidelines and Conduct of Business rules. Tsheringla emphasized that the NC will analyze the compatibility of these laws with Bhutan’s existing legal framework, comparing the Companies Act and other relevant legislation.

These initiatives underscore the NC’s commitment to revising the legal landscape in Bhutan, aiming for a seamless integration of the GMC infrastructure with the broader national context over the next decade. The Council’s efforts reflect a progressive legal alignment that responds to contemporary governance needs while fostering innovation and enterprise in the country.

The National Council of Bhutan is embarking on extensive legal reforms aimed at aligning national laws with emerging governance structures in the Gelephu Mindfulness City. By addressing the four thematic areas outlined by His Majesty, the NC seeks to establish a comprehensive legal framework that promotes order, security, and prosperity. The incorporation of foreign laws signals an intent to modernize Bhutan’s legal system while ensuring it aligns with local contexts. Through careful examination and collaboration with stakeholders, the Council is taking significant strides toward enhancing legislative efficacy in the country, ultimately facilitating national growth and empowerment.

Original Source: asianews.network