Bhutan Watch Publishes Seventh Edition of The Bhutan Journal
Bhutan Watch has released the seventh edition of The Bhutan Journal, continuing its long-running effort to provide space for careful research and thoughtful analysis on issues affecting Bhutan and the wider Bhutanese community.
Published on 23 January 2026, The Bhutan Journal Issue 7.1 brings together contributions from scholars, researchers and practitioners examining a range of social, political and economic questions. The journal, produced by the independent think tank Bhutan Watch, is known for its focus on evidence-based inquiry and long-form analysis rather than short-term commentary.
The editorial accompanying the latest issue reflects on the Journal’s founding purpose as an academic research publication and reaffirms its commitment to methodological rigour and ethical standards. It also marks a moment of reflection following the death of the Journal’s founding editor, Dr Govinda Rizal, whose work helped shape the publication’s direction and scholarly ethos.
This edition includes an interview with Hari Bangaley Adhikari, which explores questions of human rights, identity and the experiences of the Bhutanese diaspora. The conversation offers personal insight alongside broader reflections on displacement and community life.
Economic change is examined in Bikram Adhikari’s article on bitcoin and digital currency mining in Bhutan, which considers the country’s emerging engagement with cryptocurrency in light of its development goals and policy constraints.
Human rights and international engagement are the focus of Ram Karki’s contribution on Bhutanese political prisoners. The article analyses state responses to allegations of political detention and the role of multilateral institutions in addressing long-standing concerns.
Public health issues are addressed in Devi Katel’s examination of lifestyle-related illnesses in Bhutan. The article looks at shifting patterns of disease and the social and economic factors contributing to changing health outcomes.
The issue also features an article by late Govinda Rizal on Bhutan–Nepal relations, tracing the historical and political dimensions of the bilateral relationship and it’s continuing significance in the region.
Together, the articles reflect the Journal’s broad scope, covering topics ranging from foreign relations and human rights to public health, economics and diaspora experiences.
Bhutan Watch has also invited submissions for the next edition of The Bhutan Journal. The editorial team is seeking original research articles and analytical essays on issues related to Bhutan and the Bhutanese diaspora. Submissions will be subject to peer review, with further details available on the organisation’s website at https://bhutanwatch.org.
The Bhutan Journal Issue 7.1 can be accessed online at https://bhutanwatch.org/the-bhutan-journal/issue-7-1/.