Bhutan’s National Council Initiates Comprehensive Legal Reforms

The National Council of Bhutan is preparing for substantial legal reforms to align with national goals and the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative. The focus includes consolidating and amending laws as well as enacting new ones based on directives from the Royal Address. The council aims to create coherent legislation that promotes economic growth and social harmony.

Bhutan’s National Council (NC) is proactively engaging in reforming laws and regulations to align with the nation’s vision and the initiatives outlined for Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). In a meeting held on February 13, members focused on addressing directives from the Royal Address commemorating the 117th National Day, which underscored the importance of meritocracy, democratic governance, entrepreneurial support, economic growth, and empowering the population.

His Majesty emphasized that effective laws form the bedrock of order, security, prosperity, and social harmony. He pointed out the plight of many countries hampered by excessive legislation, inadequate public comprehension, and ineffective enforcement, which can inhibit innovation and impede enterprise.

Dago Tsheringla, NC’s spokesperson and Deputy Chairperson, highlighted the Council’s commitment to channel its activities toward realizing the national vision. He noted, “NC did a recapitulation exercise on His Majesty’s address to the nation related to laws on 117th National Day.” The NC intends to thoroughly evaluate and amend existing laws while potentially creating new ones to ensure compatibility with GMC within the next decade.

NC members have been tasked with identifying the laws requiring consolidation or amendment and deciding on new legislation aligned with His Majesty’s directives. In April, comprehensive presentations supported by research will be made to prioritize amendments and new laws, promoting effective governance.

During their recent meeting, NC members reviewed Schedule A and Schedule B laws for GMC, implemented on December 26, 2024. These schedules include laws adopted from Singapore and regulations from the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) to streamline governance in key areas such as corporate operations and financial legislation.

The adopted Singaporean legislations encompass a wide array, including the Companies Act, Employment Act, Income Tax Act, and the Goods and Services Tax Act. The ten ADGM regulations provide essential frameworks to govern financial services, anti-money laundering, and business conduct within GMC’s jurisdiction.

Furthermore, NC plans to assess how national laws correspond with both Bhutan’s existing legislation and GMC’s regulations, particularly in areas where both frameworks share similarities. This comparative study aims to identify necessary amendments or integrations to create a cohesive legal environment.

The National Council of Bhutan is committed to significant legal reforms to achieve national objectives aligned with the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative. The focus is on consolidating and amending existing laws while potentially enacting new regulations. The aim is to create a coherent legal structure that fosters prosperity, order, and innovation for the benefit of the populace.

Original Source: asianews.network