Changes in Bhutan since 1999 (click on events for more info)

By mitch.cook

  • Country is opened up to the world

    Tourism is allowed, and internet and television are introduced. This is the turning point in opening up the country to the rest of the world.

  • First internet cafe opens in Thimphu

    This helps to connect the country to the outside world by providing more access to internet.

  • Proposed constitution is revealed

    A proposed constitution is announced and will be adopted or rejected in a referendum. It predicts a parliamentary democracy which would modernize the country and make it more appealing and accessible to tourists.

  • The King of Bhutan steps down and the Crown Prince takes over

    The King was expected to stay reigning the country until the parliamentary elections in 2008.

  • Mock elections are held

    Practice elections are held to help the citizens prepare for the actual elections in 2008.

  • First parliamentary elections are held

    The pro-monarchy Bhutan Harmony Party wins 44 out of the 47 seats, with another pro-monarchy party winning the remaining seats.

  • The new King is crowned

    With pro-monarchy parties winning the election, a new King replaces the Crown Prince.

  • Orange crop wiped out by virus

    Much of the country's orange crop is wiped out by the Huanglongbing virus. These crops are an important export for the country.

  • 64,000 international tourists visit in 2011

    This tourism earned the country $US47.7 million.

  • Parliamentary elections are held

    The People's Democratic Party wins 32 seats and takes over. The Prime Minister of the new government is Tshering Tobgay.