Gender Equity Commission

Bhutan Olympic Committee

Gender Equity Commission

The Gender Equity Commission, established in 2014 (originally known as the Women in Sports Committee), plays a critical role in promoting gender inclusivity in sports in Bhutan. Its primary mission is to encourage greater participation of girls and women in sports while creating an environment that supports and empowers them to thrive in athletic pursuits.

Comprising of five members, including a chairperson, the commission operated as an advisory body to the Bhutan Olympic Committee on matters relating to gender equity in sports. The Chairperson, nominated by the Honorable President of the BOC and elected during the General Assembly, also serves as a member of the BOC Executive Board. The commission members are recommended by the commission itself, with all members serving a term of four years. Guided by the BOC constitution, the commission is mandated to advocate for gender equity in sports, promote awareness, create enabling environment and shape a more equitable and inclusive sporting landscape through initiatives, policies and programs.

One of the commission’s most notable achievements is the formulation of the Safe Sports Policy in collaboration with the Athletes Commission of Bhutan, aimed to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all who participate in sports. This effort, undertaken with unwavering commitment, received strong supports from the Honorable President, reflecting the leadership’s recognition of the critical importance of safeguarding athletes and all other participants.

The Gender Equity Commission plays a critical role in advancing the mission of the Bhutan Olympic Committee by fostering an environment that encourages and supports individuals to engage in sports. The GEC is committed to creating a safe and thriving space, free from all forms of abuse and harassment, enabling participants to fully realize their potential.

Through this focus on inclusivity, fairness and equality, the GEC strengthens the foundation of an equitable sports system, contributing to the realization of the BOC’s mission.

Quick Info:

Commission : Gender Equity Commission

Contact Information: Office Location: Thimphu, Bhutan

Chair/Coordinator: Sonam Yangchen, General Secretary, Bhutan Tennis Federation

Mission:

To actively promote equality of opportunity for girls and women as participants, competitors, coaches, officials and leaders in sports without discriminating on the basis of gender.

Primary Objectives

  • Emphasize the importance of women and girls in sports and to assist in encouraging gender equality in sporting community in the country;
  • To support the development of activities to promote gender equity in participation at both national and international levels;
  • To promote gender equity in decision making positions in sport in Bhutan and internationally, and   to   recommend changes to rules and procedures of Member Federations and the BOC to support this objective;
  • Fostering and promoting the Olympic values;
  • To encourage gender equity in participation  across both technical and administrative roles;
  • To provide advice and recommendation to the BOC Executive Committee and the General Assembly on matters affecting gender equity in participation and promotion in sport, with focus on achieving equal participation and representation for women and men.
  • Maintain contact with OCA and IOC Women and Sports Commission, as well as with relevant domestic and international agencies.

Key Responsibilities

  • Developing and implementing policy and program options to promote equality and expand opportunities for gender equity in sports
  • Raising awareness for gender balanced portrayal of male and female athletes
  • Advocacy for increased participation of women, promoting the rights and well-being including greater access to sport for girls and women
  • ​Providing input and advice on emergent and existing impediments affecting the growth of women’s participation in sport
  • Supporting the development of women’s skills in management and leadership within the sports community, including through training, seminars, workshops and mentoring
  • ​Work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders on matters of mutual interest and with particular focus on promoting and addressing issues of equality in sports

Initiatives and Programs:

Ongoing Initiatives: 

  • Initiative Name: Safe Sports Awareness
  • Objective: Raise awareness about safe sports
  • Description: Awareness for National Sports Federations
  • Target Audience: Athletes, coaches, and sports administrators.
  • Outcomes: Increased awareness and prevention of abuse and harassment in sports

Completed Projects/Programs

Safe Sports Policy formulation 2020

The safe sport policy was developed based on the command received from His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck in November, 2020. The Safe Sport Policy was framed in collaboration with the Athletes’ Commission of Bhutan and in consultation with the member affiliates of the BOC and subject matter experts of the International Olympic Committee. The aim of the Policy is to promote good practice, strengthen safety and protection of athletes’ wellbeing whilst being involved in the activities of the Olympic movement in the country, and to allow participants to make informed and confident responses to specific safeguarding and athlete/ child protection issues.

Signed MoU with National Federations for implementation of Safe Sport Policy and training of safeguarding officers.

IMPLUSE Seminar for Women in Leadership, 2016

The Seminar was funded by the Olympic Solidarity. Normally, one or two commission members attend the seminar held elsewhere. However, the commission recognizing the seminar’s significant impact, particularly in building confidence proposed brining the seminar to Bhutan to benefit more girls and women in sports. The seminar focused on the empowerment of women in sports by addressing critical areas of personal and professional development. The seminar covered amongst others topics such as communication, public speaking, and networking which are essential skills that not only enhance their confidence but also enables women to express their ideas and take on roles including leadership roles more effectively. By gaining deeper understanding of themselves as individuals, participants could better identify their strengths and areas for growth. For women working in sports administration, the seminar aimed to equip participants with practical tools and strategies to navigate their roles and overcome challenges with confidence.

Additionally, the seminar sought to encourage a supportive environment where women and girls could connect, share experience, and build a strong network. This initiative ultimately aimed to enhance their ability to make meaningful contributions to their organizations and the boarder sports community. 

We have observed increased confidence among participants, along with enhanced interaction and networking opportunities. 

Bumo Journal

Bumo, meaning “Girls” in Dzongkha, is a quarterly journal initiated by the Gender Equity Commission. Its mission is spotlight the insipiring stories of female national athletes, aiming to encourage and promote greater participation of girls and women in sports. By sharing these stories, the journal seeks to create a positive narrative around women in sports, breaking stereotypes and inspiring young girls and their families to view sports as a safe, empowering, and productive avenue for growth. Beyond promoting individual athletes, Bumo serves as a powerful platform for female athletes to showcase their journeys in both print and social media. This visibility not only celebrates their achievements but also positions them as role models for younger generations. Through these stories, the journal highlights the transformative role sports can play in shaping lives, instilling discipline, promoting healthy habits, and sheering children away from negative influences.

Inspiring younger generations by breaking barriers and challenging traditional views about women in sports, and promoting health and discipline.

Future Plans:

Planned Initiatives or Projects: Strengthen Network with National Sports Federations. 

Expected Impact: Enhanced collaboration between GEC and NSFs while fostering a culture of inclusion. The partnership aims to drive collective policy reforms and promote fairness, equality, and safety in sports.

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