We are an non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Bhutanese refugees in Denmark. Founded on October 23, 2010, the organization plays a crucial role in helping resettled Bhutanese refugees integrate into Danish society while preserving their cultural heritage.
Background
The organization was established to address the needs of Bhutanese refugees who were resettled in Denmark through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) program. Most of these refugees belong to the Lhotshampa population, a Nepali-speaking ethnic group from Bhutan who were stripped of their citizenship and persecuted by the Bhutanese government in the 1990s.
Aims and Objectives
ABC Denmark has several key objectives:
- Facilitate the integration of Bhutanese refugees into Danish society
- Represent the common interests of Bhutanese to various organizations at local, regional, national, and international levels
- Preserve and promote Bhutanese identity, culture, tradition, language, and history among Bhutanese in Denmark
- Foster mutual understanding between Bhutanese and Danish people
- Advocate for assistance to Bhutanese resettled in Denmark, in accordance with Danish law
- Maintain up-to-date data on Bhutanese resettled in Denmark
Membership and Structure
The organization is open to resettled Bhutanese, Danish citizens, and people from other minorities who support its goals. Membership is renewed every two years, and the organization is governed by a committee elected at the general assembly. The committee consists of seven members, including a president, two vice presidents, a treasurer, a sports coordinator, a cultural coordinator, and a public relations officer.
Activities
ABC Denmark organizes various activities to support the Bhutanese community and promote cultural exchange:
- Language courses
- Cultural festivals
- Lectures and workshops on Bhutanese history, culture, and religion
- Coordination with government and non-government organizations to provide financial and advisory support to Bhutanese refugees
- Collaboration with other organizations working on refugee and development issues
Challenges
One of the major challenges faced by the Bhutanese community in Denmark is statelessness. Many resettled refugees lack valid passports or proof of identity, which limits their opportunities for travel, education, and work abroad. ABC Denmark actively campaigns to find solutions to this situation, even for those who have lived legally in Denmark for 15 years.
Impact
Since 2008, Denmark has resettled 874 Bhutanese refugees, according to UNHCR. ABC Denmark plays a vital role in supporting this community, helping them navigate the challenges of integration while maintaining their cultural identity. The organization’s efforts contribute significantly to the well-being and success of Bhutanese refugees in their new home.
By fostering connections between the Bhutanese and Danish communities, ABC Denmark not only aids in the integration process but also enriches Danish society through cultural exchange and diversity.