Current Situation of Using Alcohol in Bhutan

Research Paper

As we know, drinking alcoholic beverages is the common way of social gatherings in many parts of world. Nevertheless, the consumption of alcohol carries a global problem which compromises both individuals and social development. It becomes the third largest risk element for premature mortality, disability and loss of health in the world and about 2.5 million deaths occur every year. And it is obvious to see that the harmful use of alcohol will directly result in many serious social issues, such as violent, abuse and traffic accidents. Moreover, it causes a huge psychological harm on the person who drinks a lot. The harmful use of alcohol has already reached a deep influence into the society.

Current situation of using alcohol in Bhutan

Bhutan is a small country which is between China and India and its population is about 741,822 in 2013. It is currently confronting a serious health issue because of the harmful use of alcohol. According to World Health Organization report, it has the highest per-capita alcohol consumption in South Asia. There are close to 5,500 bars in Bhutan and about 700 are in the capital. For this small country, the number is quite high. There are many people dead every year and a lot of people are suffering from the social issues which are carried by the harmful use of alcohol.

Elements influence the use of alcohol

Culture

In fact, alcoholic drinks play a significant role in Bhutan; it has become a part of people’s life and Bhutanese culture. They are usually provided when people celebrate the ceremonial and religious occasions and almost every family brews its own rice-based liquor in Bhutan. Therefore, it is normal for people to drink in this country; some are even at a very young age. If you go to any bar in the capital of Bhutan, the waiters will pour you a drink as you have the money. And there is no age bar or time, although the notice is clearly specifying the restriction.

Environment

As we know, sports are becoming much more popular in the world nowadays. Therefore, the same situation occurs in Bhutan, more and more people start to pay attention to sports especially the archery which is the nation sport in this country. People begin to get together, talk and drink while they are watching the game, even some archers will drink alcohol in their respective team tents. So some people jokingly say Bhutan is the only country where alcohol and sport goes together. Moreover, trendy bars and pubs have mushroomed in Bhutan, there are almost 5,500 bars and about 700 are in the capital.

Socio-economic

Bhutan is one of the smallest and least developed countries in the world, and its economy is based on the agriculture and forestry, which become