Gross National Happiness
Bhutan opened its borders for the first time less than 4 decades ago and has since gained an almost mythical status as a real-life Shangri-La, largely because of its determined pursuit of happiness.
The 4th King of Bhutan, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, first used the phrase “gross national happiness” in 1972 when he said, “Gross National Happiness is more essential than Gross Domestic Product.” The concept suggests that sustainable development should approach concepts of progress holistically and give non-economic dimensions of wellbeing equal weight.