By Dr. Haqnawaz Ahmad Bhutan has always taken pride in pursuing economic policies that balance revenue needs with social well-being but the recent rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) has triggered a question many ordinary citizens are now asking in tea shops, markets, and homes: is this policy …

By Brahma Chellaney NEW DELHI—In a rambling address to the American people on April 1, US President Donald Trump claimed that the US war against Iran has been a success, vowing to “finish the job … very fast.” It was a statement in obvious conflict with the facts. Trump is …

The government’s decision to subsidise diesel under the National Fuel Price Smoothening Framework (NFPSF) comes as both a relief and a warning. Relief, because soaring global fuel prices, driven by geopolitical tensions are already pushing up the cost of living. Warning, because such relief comes at a steep and unsustainable …

By Helen Clark AUCKLAND – The US-Israeli war on Iran has already destabilized the global economy and the geopolitics of the Middle East. Even more alarming, recent reporting suggests that US President Donald Trump is considering deploying ground troops, a prospect that immediately evokes memories of past failed interventions – …

By Bram Govaerts, Sharon Burke MEXICO CITY/ WASHINGTON, DC – Since the start of the US-Israeli campaign against Iran, only a handful of the 100 vessels that once transited the Strait of Hormuz each day have managed to pass through. Now, with Iran reportedly laying sea mines in the narrow …

Bhutan’s latest fuel price shock has triggered both public anger and legitimate questions. When diesel in Bhutan becomes more expensive than in India, despite being sourced from there, it naturally raises suspicions. However, as the evidence shows, the reality is more complex, and uncomfortable in equal measure for both the …

Bhutan is making some important long term investments through the Gelephu Mindfulness City, the Diamond Strategy and other reforms and initiatives. The main aim is to build a brighter future for our youth, and the success and completion of many of these long-term ventures will depend on the youth. Therefore, …

By Brahma Chellaney TOKYO – Since returning to office last year, US President Donald Trump has ordered military strikes from the Caribbean and eastern Pacific to Africa and the Middle East, targeting alleged drug-smuggling boats and suspected terrorist groups. He has attacked Venezuela and kidnapped its leader, Nicolás Maduro. And …

By Carolyn Kissane NEW YORK – The war with Iran is widening faster than many expected. The Islamic Republic’s retaliation against Arab Gulf states has extended beyond military targets to critical civilian infrastructure, including airports, water desalination plants, and energy facilities. Hezbollah has opened a second front from Lebanon. US …

Bhutan has developed a habit over the years. We copy and paste systems from outside the country with great enthusiasm. These systems are often borrowed from larger economies with far more complex markets and institutions. However, once they arrive here, they are implemented with a rigidity that even the countries …