Bhutan media guide

A Bhutanese map sits by a roadside in Thimphu in Bhutan reading a newspaperGetty Images

Television did not come to Bhutan until 1999. For years, the country cut itself off, fearing that outside influences would undermine its monarchy and culture.

Radio broadcasting began in 1973 and the internet arrived in 1999.

Media freedom is restricted. The creation in 2018 of a media regulator whose members are appointed by the government "poses a major threat to media independence", says Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

While there are multiple private media outlets, many depend on advertising from government bodies, and the media sector remains subject to a high degree of self-censorship.

Continuing problems include discrimination against Nepali-speaking and non-Buddhist minorities, media self-censorship, and, the use of libel and defamation cases to silence journalists.

State-funded BBS is the only TV station to broadcast from Bhutanese soil. But cable TV viewers can choose from Indian and international channels.

There were 583,000 internet users by July 2022. comprising 74% of the population (Internetworldstats.com).

Press

Television

Radio

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