Notizie

ALDA’s Commitment in Bhutan: A Workshop on “Strengthening Pathways in Channelling Needs of CSIs for Inclusive and Participatory Decision-Making”

Lug 02, 2025

Sviluppo territoriale e locale

As part of the V4GCP – Voice for Green Change Partnership project, ALDA conducted a four-day training in Trashiyangtse, East Bhutan, aimed at enhancing the role of business associations in public policy dialogue at both local and national levels. The workshop was organised and hosted by the lead applicant, the Handicraft Association of Bhutan, and it brought together the project’s partners and beneficiaries: BAOWE, SABAH Bhutan, ABCSMI, ABTO, HRAB, ASAB, and BCCI – all CSOs representing various business sectors.

The workshop also gathered stakeholders from the public and private sectors, particularly from the six eastern Dzongkhags (districts), including Planning Officers, Gewog Administrative Officers (rural communities), Economic Development and Marketing Officers (EDMOs), Thromde Thuemis (municipal level), DBDC Chairs (Chamber of Commerce committees on the territory), and business representatives.

Led by Marco Boaria and Anna Ditta from ALDA, with the support of international consultant John Hummel, the training brought together around 40 participants.

By employing an interactive and participatory methodology, ALDA guided participants through a combination of theoretical input, group exercises, and applied case studies. The training focused on how associations can better engage in structured dialogue with public institutions, advocate for members’ interests, and contribute meaningfully to the formulation of business-related policies.

This initiative is part of ALDA’s growing commitment in Bhutan and the wider South-East Asia region, seen as a strategic entry point for the promotion of democratic values, inclusive governance, and local development. The collaboration with HAB and the Bhutanese stakeholders reflects ALDA’s broader mission: empowering civil society and building bridges between citizens and institutions—no matter how far from Europe.

As ALDA’s presence in the region expands, the organisation continues to foster international cooperation by sharing tools and experiences that support democratic transformation and sustainable development at the local level.