Bhutan’s National Council Initiates Critical Legal Reforms to Align with GMC
The National Council of Bhutan is preparing for significant legal reforms to enhance alignment with the Gelephu Mindfulness City, focusing on meritocracy, entrepreneurship, economic laws, and population empowerment, as emphasized in the Royal Address on the 117th National Day. NC members are tasked with reviewing existing laws and presenting their findings in April to prioritize necessary changes.
On February 20, 2025, Bhutan’s National Council (NC) met to discuss significant legal reforms aimed at aligning the country’s laws with the objectives of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). With attention to the guidelines set forth in the Royal Address during the 117th National Day, the NC is prioritizing four critical areas: meritocracy and democracy, entrepreneurial bureaucracy, economic enhancement, and population empowerment. His Majesty noted that effective laws are crucial for maintaining order and prosperity, while cautioning against issues stemming from excessive regulations and poor enforcement.
Dago Tsheringla, Spokesperson and Deputy Chairperson of the NC, emphasized the Council’s commitment to aligning activities with the national vision. He stated that NC members have been tasked with reviewing existing laws to determine which require consolidation, amendment, or enactment, based on His Majesty’s directives. A comprehensive report, which includes research and objectives, is set to be presented to the House in April to prioritize these legal reforms.
The NC aims to facilitate a seamless integration of GMC with Bhutan’s legal framework over the next decade. This includes in-depth discussions with relevant organizations and constitutional offices. During the February 13 meeting, members reviewed Schedule A and Schedule B laws established for the GMC, which took effect on December 26, 2024, adopting vital regulations from Singapore and Abu Dhabi that govern various sectors including company incorporation and taxation.
GMC has incorporated 18 Singaporean laws and 10 Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Financial Services Regulations for governance. Notable Singaporean laws include the Companies Act 1967, Employment Act 1968, and Income Tax Act 1947. Furthermore, the ADGM regulations cover essential areas such as Anti-Money Laundering and business operations conduct. The NC intends to assess the compatibility of these laws with local legislation to ensure an efficient legal landscape.
As both GMC and Bhutan possess similar legal frameworks regarding companies, employment, income tax, and property tax, it is imperative for NC to conduct comparative analyses. This will facilitate necessary adjustments and ensure legal coherence between the two systems, thus promoting effectiveness and clarity within Bhutan’s legal framework.
The National Council of Bhutan is undertaking a comprehensive evaluation of its legal framework in response to the Royal Address delivered on the 117th National Day. Guided by His Majesty’s emphasis on effective legislation, the Council is focusing on key areas while ensuring alignment with the Gelephu Mindfulness City. By consolidating existing laws and enacting new ones, the NC aims to enhance governance and foster economic growth within Bhutan.
Original Source: asianews.network
