Lives Well Lived DASHO DECHEN WANGMO: pandemics & politics
Jul 17, 2025
Dasho Dechen Wangmo, a prominent Bhutanese public health leader and former Minister of Health, shares her incredible journey navigating Bhutan through the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses achieving a remarkable 94% vaccination rate in just four days and the vital role of community trust in public health. Dechen also touches on Bhutan's unique Gross National Happiness approach, the significance of women in politics, and lessons learned during global health crises, all interspersed with cultural insights and reflections on the philosophical underpinnings of Bhutanese society.
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Trust and Solidarity Crucial for Success
- Bhutan's pandemic success was due to trust in leadership, solidarity, and agility from being a small country.
- His Majesty's leadership unified people, and meticulous planning reached even remote areas effectively.
Micro-Planning Vaccine Delivery
- Bhutan used micro-planning to deliver vaccines to remote areas using horses and backup plans.
- Detailed coordination was needed due to lack of cold storage infrastructure in rural regions.
Leadership Earns Public Trust
- Bhutanese trust their leaders because past kings have proven benevolence and delivered results.
- Bhutan's democracy was introduced as a gift from the fourth king to protect the future of the people.