Bhutan: Free Long-Term Political Prisoners
Held for Decades After Torture, Unfair Trials
January 26, 2026
As Bhutan’s prime minister Tshering Tobgay tours Europe this week seeking investments in the “Gelephu Mindfulness City” mega-project, European leaders should urge him to release the 30 remaining political prisoners from his country’s notorious jails.
Held for Decades After Torture, Unfair Trials
Submission from Human Rights Watch to the Committee on the Rights of the Child
HRW Oral Statement - Universal Periodic Review Outcome Adoption - HRC58
At least 32 political prisoners – mostly Nepali-speaking Bhutanese – who are languishing in his nation’s jails.
Released Political Prisoner Describes Desperate Conditions
47th Session of the UN Universal Periodic Review
Uphold Ideal of ‘Gross National Happiness’ by Ensuring Economic Rights of All
Foreign Governments Should Urge Release of Dozens Held for Decades
At Least 37 Serving Long Sentences Following Alleged Torture, Unfair Trials