Bhutan Nepal Foundation
Our Work

Non-Resident Bhutanese

An umbrella framework for the global Bhutanese diaspora, working toward recognition and unity.

The concept of Non-Resident Bhutanese (NRB) was proposed by Dr. D. N. S. Dhakal, who believes that NRB is a key framework for achieving an amicable solution to the Bhutanese refugee issue. The Bhutan–Nepal Foundation will work toward the formation and formal recognition of NRB at an appropriate time.

Global Bhutanese diaspora
Pillar Five

A Framework for Unity

The fifth pillar envisions an umbrella organization that should ultimately be recognized by the government of Bhutan and by other countries hosting the Bhutanese diaspora. This framework provides a unified voice for scattered communities.

Together with the other four pillars — the Archive, the Museum, Advocacy & Reconciliation, and People-to-People Contact — NRB promotes reconciliation, understanding, and cooperation among Bhutan, Nepal, and the Bhutanese diaspora worldwide.

“The NRB initiative will ultimately be led and managed by the Bhutanese diaspora worldwide — a community united across borders by shared heritage and common purpose.”

— Dr. D. N. S. Dhakal, Founder

Key Objectives

Formal Recognition

Working toward official recognition of the Bhutanese diaspora by the government of Bhutan and host countries worldwide.

Global Coordination

Connecting Bhutanese communities across the globe — from Nepal and India to the United States, Europe, Australia, and beyond.

Diaspora Leadership

Building a framework for the NRB initiative to be ultimately led and managed by the Bhutanese diaspora themselves.

Amicable Resolution

Working toward a just and sustainable solution to the Bhutanese refugee issue through constructive engagement.

Global Bhutanese Diaspora

South Asia

Nepal, India, Bhutan

North America

United States, Canada

Europe

UK, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway

Oceania

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.

The Path Forward

01

Foundation Building

Establishing the groundwork through the Bhutan Nepal Foundation, building archives, preserving history, and developing advocacy capacity.

02

Community Engagement

Connecting with Bhutanese communities worldwide, understanding their needs, and building networks of support and collaboration.

03

Formal Recognition

Working toward official recognition of NRB by the government of Bhutan and host countries at the appropriate time.

04

Diaspora Leadership

Transitioning leadership of NRB to the global Bhutanese diaspora, creating a self-sustaining organization led by the community it serves.

For the Diaspora

Be Part of the Future

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.

Endless Knot

Join Us in Preserving
History & Heritage

Whether through membership, volunteer work, or supporting our initiatives, your involvement helps us honor the past while building bridges for the future.

30+
Years of History
3,000+
Community Members
5
Mission Pillars
1
Cultural Complex