On 13th May 2023, the Ministry of Health and UNFPA launched a book entitled “A Champion’s journey: Her Majesty The Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck Queen Mother of Bhutan”.
As a part of the 60th birth anniversary celebration of Her Majesty Gyalyum, this book takes readers on a remarkable voyage, capturing the unwavering commitment and impactful endeavors of Her Majesty in advancing the health, well-being and lives of the Bhutanese people, especially women and girls. It highlights Her Majesty’s tireless efforts and selfless dedication in promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, which have earned Her Majesty the title of a true champion in this field.
From the Bhutan of the 1960s to Her Majesty's appointment as the UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador in 1999, the book offers an insightful journey that showcases the relentless endeavors of Her Majesty. It provides glimpses into Her Majesty's unwavering commitment to numerous health and social initiatives in Bhutan, spanning a quarter-century. These include promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights, addressing HIV/AIDS, combating gender-based violence, empowering women, and advocating for adolescent and youth education, including life skills.
The book features tributes from prominent individuals and testimonials from individuals whose lives were profoundly impacted and transformed by Her Majesty's benevolence.
“I am honored to present this tribute to Your Majesty in recognition of more than two decades of unwavering commitment and effort to advance the ICPD agenda and enhance the health and wellbeing of all people in Bhutan, particularly women and children.” – Dr. Natalia Kanem, Executive Director, UNFPA
“My deepest gratitude to Her Majesty for helping the women of Lunana get pap smears, check ups, medicine and Her endless generosity. To thank Her Majesty, I would like to offer my prayers for Her Majesty’s long life and overall well-being.” – Angay Dorji, Resident, Lunana
The book also highlights the numerous national and international awards bestowed upon Her Majesty in recognition of her remarkable contributions. These accolades not only acknowledge her pivotal role in enhancing the health and well-being of all individuals but also acknowledge for being the driving force behind UNFPA’s advocacy efforts in Bhutan and advancing the rights of women and girls in Bhutan. The book concludes with a beautiful section where Her Majesty, a pivotal figure who continues to inspire and impact numerous lives, answers thought-provoking questions
“I believe that we must continue to focus on promoting women’s empowerment, gender equality, and Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights in Bhutan and beyond. I fully intend to collaborate with UNFPA and other organizations to expand the reach of our message and advocate for policy changes that improve the lives of women and girls.” Her Majesty the Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck, UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador.
During the event, an exhibition titled “A Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Her Majesty the Gyalyum Sangay Choden Wangchuck” was also inaugurated at the Royal Textile Academy to commemorate Her Majesty's Birth Anniversary. The exhibition showcased a diverse collections of artifacts, photographs, and videos that dipicted different aspects of Her Majesty’s life starting from her early days to her accomplishment as a diplomat, philanthropist, and advocate for women’s rights.
Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck graced the occasion. Ministers along with other senior government officials, international dignitaries and well-wishers of Her Majesty from other countries also attended the event.
