The Gross National Happiness Framework: what we can learn from Bhutan

By Leonie Hirschmann

Image via Pixabay

What is the Gross National Happiness Framework?

The Gross National Happiness (GNH) index is a holistic measurement tool used to evaluate the happiness and well-being of the Bhutanese population. The population’s wellbeing in turn guides policymaking to enhance GNH. It encompasses nine domains supported by 33 indicators to analyze individual achievements and the nation’s overall well-being. These domains are living standards, education, health, environment, community vitality, time use, psychological well-being, good governance, and cultural resilience and promotion. This multi-dimensional approach highlights the interrelated factors vital for happiness, such as material security, ecological diversity, and a balance between material and non-material development. This strongly distinguishes GNH from gross domestic product (GDP) per capita.

Bhutan has further separated these domains into 38 sub-indexes, 72 indicators, and 151 variables. The domains are also categorized into four pillars: good governance, sustainable socio-economic development, preservation and promotion of culture, and environmental conservation. Governance through these four pillars is crucial for creating conditions that enable Bhutanese citizens to thrive. The pillars determine GNH values and make sure that these values are embedded in social policy. Sustainable socio-economic development recognizes the importance of household contributions and leisure in fostering happiness. Cultural preservation and promotion enhance happiness by maintaining cultural identity and resilience, while environmental conservation is vital due to its provision of essential services as well as its contributions to well-being. Thus, GNH reflects a comprehensive and interconnected framework for measuring and promoting the happiness of Bhutanese society.

Why is it important for sustainability?

Bhutan’s GNH framework is crucial for sustainable development, as it offers a comprehensive alternative to GDP that focuses on long-term ecological and societal health. Through operationalizing this concept to assess the impact of policies on happiness and well-being, GNH ensures that development is both sustainable and equitable.

The holistic approach of the GNH framework ensures that development strategies promote balanced growth by considering both material and non-material needs. For instance, GNH-driven policies have led to sustainable tourism practices.

GNH also facilitates effective responses to contemporary challenges, such as managing the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic diversification, by emphasizing community resilience and environmental stewardship. These achievements underscore the importance of GNH in fostering a sustainable development model that balances economic growth with ecological and social well-being. Bhutan’s GNH framework is an important example for other nations seeking sustainable development strategies that prioritize long-term ecological balance and the well-being of their populations.

What can we learn regarding our own sustainability?

Germany can learn several valuable lessons from Bhutan's GNH framework to enhance its approach to sustainable development:

1. Holistic Measurement of Progress: Germany could benefit from adopting a more comprehensive measure of progress beyond GDP, similar to Bhutan’s GNH. This would involve integrating indicators of well-being, such as mental health, community vitality, and cultural preservation, alongside economic progress.

2. Sustainability Policy Integration: Bhutan’s GNH framework ensures that all policies are evaluated for their impact on happiness and well-being. Implementing similar policy screening tools to ensure that new policies and projects support sustainable development goals would help in balancing economic growth with social well-being and environmental protection.

3. Ecological Stewardship: Bhutan is highly committed to maintaining high levels of forest cover and being carbon-negative. Enhancing efforts in reforestation, renewable energy, and conservation can further Germany’s leadership in environmental sustainability.

4. Culture and Community: Bhutan emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation and community well-being in its development strategy. Placing greater emphasis on supporting local cultures and communities and preserving cultural heritage would again aid sustainable development.

5. Resilience and Adaptability: Bhutan’s approach to managing the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the benefits of prioritizing well-being and community resilience. By building resilient communities and systems that can adapt to future challenges—e.g., health crises, economic disruptions, or environmental changes—Germany would be better prepared for any crisis.

6. Integration of Non-Material Aspects: Bhutan’s GNH includes psychological well-being and time use as key indicators. Germany could enhance its sustainable development approach by integrating non-material aspects of well-being, ensuring that policies support a balanced and fulfilling quality of life for its population.

7. Sustainable Tourism: Germany can learn from Bhutan’s model of high-value, low-impact tourism, which aims to be environmentally sustainable and economically beneficial without degrading natural or cultural resources.

By incorporating these elements into its sustainable development strategy, Germany can create a more balanced and resilient approach that not only drives economic growth but also enhances overall human well-being and protects the environment for future generations.