Promoting Peace,
Empowering the Diaspora
Peace Initiative Bhutan (PIB) is a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to fostering reconciliation, justice, and lasting peace between the Government of Bhutan and the exiled Bhutanese — guided by the principles of compassion, non-violence, and the Bhutanese spirit of harmony.
Our Story
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Bhutanese government carried out a campaign of forced exile targeting ethnic Nepalis—also known as Lhotshampas—who had lived in Bhutan for generations. This systematic expulsion uprooted tens of thousands, many of whom spent decades in refugee camps in Nepal before being resettled abroad.
Peace Initiative Bhutan was founded by members of this diaspora—individuals shaped by displacement but driven by the hope of reconciliation. They are joined by allies who believe in the power of education, storytelling, and community engagement to heal long-standing divisions.
Unlike many organizations with adversarial stances, PIB takes an independent, dialogue-based approach. We prioritize compassionate listening, mutual trust, and finding common ground with all parties—including the Government of Bhutan.
At our core, we believe peacebuilding must be rooted in human dignity, cultural recognition, and justice. Our work is not just about political outcomes—it's about restoring the social fabric and building a future where Bhutanese communities, both in exile and at home, can thrive together.
- 30+
- Years in exile for many Bhutanese refugees
- 8
- Countries where our community has resettled
- 10+
- Active partnerships and diaspora collaborations
Our Values
Guided by the principles of Gross National Happiness, we envision a Bhutan where reconciliation and human dignity pave the way for lasting peace.
Compassion
Rooted in Buddhist tradition, we lead with compassion — recognizing that peace begins with empathy for those who have endured displacement and injustice.
Non-Violence
Following Bhutan’s tradition of peaceful coexistence, we are committed to approaches rooted in non-violence and mutual respect.
Justice
We advocate for truth, accountability, and healing — including amnesty for political prisoners and recognition of human rights violations.
Dialogue
We foster sincere dialogue and compassionate listening as tools to bridge divides — honoring the Bhutanese spirit of harmony.
Our Approach
Our work centers on truth, reconciliation, and inclusive development \u2014 bridging communities through dialogue and long-term peacebuilding efforts.
Peacebuilding & Reconciliation
We promote sustainable peace through mutual trust, compassionate listening, and non-adversarial dialogue between the Bhutanese government and diaspora communities.
Community-Led Advocacy
Our efforts are guided by those directly impacted — former refugees, youth leaders, and grassroots organizers shaping programs through lived experience.
Long-Term Healing & Inclusion
We focus on education, storytelling, and human rights as tools for long-term healing, civic participation, and reintegration — in Bhutan and in exile.
Our Leadership
Passionate advocates, former refugees, and scholars committed to non-violence, reconciliation, and community healing.
Board of Directors
Sudarshan Sharma
Chair, Board of Directors
Dedicated to building reconciliation between Bhutan and its exiled citizens through peaceful advocacy.
Manju Gautam
Board Member
Passionate about community healing and preserving the Bhutanese refugee experience.
Suraj Budathoki
Board Member
Leads national and international dialogues advocating for peace and justice in Bhutan.
Kailash Mishra
Research & Communication
Experienced Research Assistant with a background in data representation and public policy.
Puspa Chhetri
Administrative Assistant
Dedicated to community service and education, advocating for justice and peacebuilding.
Arati Chapagai
Treasurer
Senior at The Ohio State University, passionate about social justice and community service.
Board of Advisors
Dr. Anneloes Smitsman
Advisor
Theo Dunfey
Advisor
Dr. Cora Quisumbing-King
Advisor
Beena Sarwar
Advisor
Dr. Chidubem Gbujie
Advisor
Bill Gillett
Advisor
Netra Acharya
Advisor
Our Team
Passionate organizers, researchers, educators, and advocates driving forward the mission of Peace Initiative Bhutan.
Kailash Mishra
Research & Communication
Arati Chapagai
Treasurer
Puspa Tiwari
Administrative Assistant
Thakur Kharel
IT Manager
Be Part of the Peacebuilding Journey
Join us in advancing reconciliation, justice, and human dignity for Bhutanese communities worldwide. Whether you're part of the diaspora or an ally, your voice and support matter.