Beyond Shangri-la

Bhutan, the only surviving Himalayan Buddhist monarchy, has become unique, essentially through isolation of its people, conservation of its culture, and protection of its environment. But a fossilized and exotic Shangri-la it is not.

At the beginning of a new millennium, indeed, this kingdom in the clouds offers the world, both North and South, not impossible or romantic notions of paradise on earth, but a living example of wise balance and circumspection in the process and goal of development.

Bhutanese leaders are aware of challenges that accompany current changes due to globalization and are providing more infrastructure and basic human services to people in the countryside to discourage any rural-to-urban drift before it begins.

In these pages, UNICEF tells what it's trying to do in taking part in the Bhutanese people's own efforts in human development, particularly in implementing the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and meeting the needs of children and women in health, education, and water and sanitation.

Bhutan deserves support in its carefully measured endeavour to ensure a decent life for its people, and shows how an international community of interest, perhaps built through the Internet, could help the country fulfil still outstanding basic needs.