Can Bhutan's New Megacity Help Reduce High Youth Unemployment & Brain Drain? | CNA Correspondent

Summary

This video script explores Bhutan's ambitious project, the 'Mindfulness City,' aiming to harmonize traditional values with modern development. Amidst high youth unemployment and brain drain, Bhutan seeks to redefine capitalism through a city that integrates conservation, Buddhist mindfulness, and technology. The script delves into the country's cultural identity, its struggle to balance progress with tradition, and the government's efforts to create a sustainable, mindful urban utopia that could change Bhutan for generations.

Takeaways

• 🗻 Bhutan, known as the 'Land of the Thunder Dragon', is situated between India and China and is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural traditions, and Buddhist faith.
• 🏙️ The country is facing a significant youth unemployment issue, with 29% of young people unemployed and many seeking opportunities abroad, leading to a 'brain drain'.
• 👑 The Bhutanese government, led by Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, is concerned about the economic impact of the pandemic and the need to rebuild the economy with a focus on youth employment.
• 🌆 Bhutan is proposing a new city, the 'Mindfulness City', as a response to these challenges, aiming to create a harmonious blend of technology, conservation, and Buddhist philosophy.
• 🏞️ The Mindfulness City project will span over 1,000 square kilometers, larger than Singapore, and includes plans for a new international airport and protected natural zones.
• 🛠️ Despite ambitious plans, the construction of the Mindfulness City has yet to commence, with only artist renderings and special administrative zones currently in place.
• 🤔 There is skepticism about the feasibility of the Mindfulness City, with no concrete details or public commitments from foreign stakeholders or investors.
• 💡 The concept of 'Gross National Happiness' is central to Bhutan's philosophy, emphasizing well-being, cultural values, and environmental sustainability over material wealth.
• 🌱 The country is exploring a new form of capitalism that coexists with its traditional values, termed 'mindful capitalism', aiming for economic growth without sacrificing societal harmony.
• 🌟 Bhutan's leaders see the Mindfulness City not as an experiment, but as the start of an 'epic journey' that aligns with the country's cultural legacy and aspirations for the future.
• 🌐 There is a sense of optimism and a 'can-do' spirit among the Bhutanese people, who are eager to embrace change while preserving their cultural identity and values.

Q & A

What is the primary concern of Bhutan's Prime Minister regarding the country's economy?

The primary concern is the high youth unemployment rate, which stands at 29%, and the brain drain, as many young talents are leaving the country for better job prospects abroad.

What is the significance of the term 'drul' in the context of Bhutan?

Drul is the local name for Bhutan, meaning 'the land of the thunder dragon,' reflecting the country's cultural identity and its mythical status as a paradise in the Himalayas.

How does Bhutan's population demographics impact its economy and job market?

Bhutan has a very young population, with half of all Bhutanese being younger than 27 years old. This demographic pressure exacerbates the issue of unemployment, as there are not enough jobs for the youth.

What is the 'Mindfulness City' project in Bhutan, and what is its purpose?

The 'Mindfulness City' is a grand vision announced by King Jigme Kesar Namgyel Wangchuk, aiming to create a new utopia in harmony with the country's conservation efforts and Buddhist mindfulness philosophy. It is intended to be a technologically advanced place that attracts the brightest minds.

How does the proposed 'Mindfulness City' align with Bhutan's commitment to environmental conservation?

The 'Mindfulness City' will be flanked by two large protected natural zones and will utilize green energy from a hydroelectric dam, reflecting Bhutan's dedication to natural conservation.

What is the current status of the construction for the 'Mindfulness City'?

As of the script's recording, construction has yet to take off, with only artist renderings and some infrastructure like an international airport and an abandoned town being part of the project.

What is Bhutan's approach to economic growth in the context of the 'Mindfulness City'?

Bhutan aims to achieve a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, proposing an alternative form of capitalism that coexists with the country's values of mindfulness and well-being.

How does Bhutan's concept of 'Gross National Happiness' influence the 'Mindfulness City' project?

The 'Mindfulness City' is deeply influenced by the concept of 'Gross National Happiness,' which prioritizes well-being, cultural values, and environmental sustainability over material wealth, and is a key pillar of the project.

What are some of the challenges Bhutan faces in implementing the 'Mindfulness City' project?

Challenges include securing foreign investment, defining the project's concrete details, and balancing the preservation of cultural identity with the need for modernization and economic development.

How do local Bhutanese view the potential impact of the 'Mindfulness City' on their country's future?

Many locals, such as entrepreneurs and cultural figures, view the project with optimism, believing it could be a transformative phase for Bhutan, positioning it on the global map with a focus on social and green values.

What is the significance of Bhutan's cultural traditions and festivals in the context of the country's development?

Cultural traditions and festivals, such as the Paro festival, are a source of pride and a testament to Bhutan's ability to preserve its cultural identity while embracing change and development.