Who coined the term “Gross National Happiness” for Bhutan’s development philosophy?

Jigme Singye Wangchuck coined the term “Gross National Happiness” for Bhutan’s development philosophy.

The fourth Druk Gyalpo, or Dragon King, introduced the idea after becoming Bhutan’s monarch in 1972. It expressed the view that national progress should not be measured only by Gross Domestic Product. Bhutan’s approach emphasizes balanced development and the well-being of its people.

The Gross National Happiness framework is commonly described through four pillars: good governance, sustainable socioeconomic development, cultural preservation and environmental conservation. Bhutan later developed indicators and surveys to assess these areas, although the concept is used in different ways by researchers and governments.

Jigme Singye Wangchuck abdicated in 2006 in favour of his son, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The younger king continued Bhutan’s constitutional transition, which led to democratic elections and a parliamentary system.