An umbrella framework for the global Bhutanese diaspora, working toward recognition and unity.
The concept of Non-Resident Bhutanese (NRB) is a key framework for achieving an amicable solution to the Bhutanese refugee issue—working toward formation and formal recognition at an appropriate time.
The concept of Non-Resident Bhutanese (NRB) emerged in 2009 following structured discussions with members of the Bhutan National Democratic Party (BNDP) and the Druk National Congress (DNC) at a meeting held in Kathmandu. The meeting agreed to promote the NRB initiative as a platform to provide a unified voice for the scattered Bhutanese community, particularly as large numbers of Bhutanese refugees were being resettled overseas, including in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, the Netherlands, Denmark, and the United Kingdom.
Following this decision, the BNDP took the lead in organizing an expert meeting at Hotel Himalaya in Kathmandu to gather input from well-wishers and government officials. There was broad consensus in support of establishing an NRB platform, modeled after similar outreach programs in neighboring countries. The proposed platform aimed to bring together resettled Bhutanese as well as those who had migrated directly from Bhutan in pursuit of education and economic opportunities.
Today, approximately 20 percent of Bhutan's population resides abroad, generating a combined gross annual income that exceeds Bhutan's gross domestic product. The importance of an NRB platform appears to have been recognized by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, as reflected in his interactions with the Bhutanese diaspora during his state visit to Australia in 2024.
The Bhutan National Democratic Party encourages the Government of Bhutan to grant NRB status to willing resettled Bhutanese and to integrate them with the broader overseas Bhutanese diaspora. This integration would enable them to contribute meaningfully to national development efforts.
Working toward official recognition of the Bhutanese diaspora by the government of Bhutan and host countries worldwide.
Connecting Bhutanese communities across the globe — from Nepal and India to the United States, Europe, Australia, and beyond.
Building a framework for the NRB initiative to be ultimately led and managed by the Bhutanese diaspora themselves.
Working toward a just and sustainable solution to the Bhutanese refugee issue through constructive engagement.
Nepal, India, Bhutan
United States, Canada
UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway
Australia, New Zealand
The Bhutanese diaspora has settled across the globe, from traditional communities in South Asia to resettlement countries in North America, Europe, and Oceania. NRB seeks to connect these communities under one unified framework.
Establishing the groundwork through the Bhutan Nepal Foundation, building archives, preserving history, and developing advocacy capacity.
Connecting with Bhutanese communities worldwide, understanding their needs, and building networks of support and collaboration.
Working toward official recognition of NRB by the government of Bhutan and host countries at the appropriate time.
Transitioning leadership of NRB to the global Bhutanese diaspora, creating a self-sustaining organization led by the community it serves.
If you are part of the Bhutanese diaspora — whether in Nepal, India, the United States, Europe, or elsewhere — your voice matters. Join the Foundation as a member and help shape the future of NRB as an organization led by and for the diaspora.
Whether through membership, volunteer work, or supporting our initiatives, your involvement helps us honor the past while building bridges for the future.