Led by the National Statistics Bureau (NSB), has commenced preparatory activities for Population and Housing Census (PHCB) 2027. The NSB, as the lead agency, and in collaboration with partners including UNFPA Bhutan  has initiated a series of technical and operational activities, including planning workshops, methodological reviews, and stakeholder consultations. 

In April 2026, the NSB convened the first PHCB-2027 Questionnaire Consultation Workshop in April, bringing together stakeholders and subject matter experts from various agencies to review and develop the census questionnaire. The process aims to ensure that the census effectively supports national policy formulation, planning, and socio-economic development. Representatives from key institutions including the National Land Commission Secretariat, Centre for Bhutan Studies, National Assembly, National Council, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Information and Communications, among others, participated in the consultation. At the same time, UNFPA has been facilitating learning and experience-sharing sessions with its regional office and countries that have recently conducted censuses, such as Laos.

The census marks a critical national exercise that will generate updated, reliable, and disaggregated data to inform evidence-based policymaking, development planning, and resource allocation across the country. As Bhutan continues to navigate socio-economic transformation, the Census 2027 will provide essential insights into population dynamics, migration patterns, urbanization, and household characteristics.

The Population and Housing Census 2027 is expected to play a key role in tracking progress towards national development priorities and global commitments. As preparations move forward, continued collaboration between the NSB, UNFPA, and other national and international stakeholders will be essential to ensuring a successful, credible, and impactful census for Bhutan.