In Bhutan democratic rights of the people are overshadowed by the absolute power of the regime. There is no written constitution and any bill of rights and hence all the rights of the people are under threat. As such the basic rights of the workers i.e to organize and form trade union is a far cry for the Bhutanese workers who are compelled to work under pathetic work environment. Workers in Bhutan are not protected by labour and social legislation as there exist none and are prone to hazards and discrimination.

However, Federation of Bhutanese Trade unions (FOBTU), a workers organization operating from exile  is endeavouring to advocate for the rights of the workers by organizing all the workers in Bhutan according to specific trade and profession. In this state of affairs it is increasingly difficult for the unions to operate openly in Bhutan. FOBTU endeavours to establish just, peaceful and democratic social relationships in Bhutan that has respect for the working class. It believes in the social cohesion among all the ethnic and religious groups for peaceful co-existence.

FOBTU is an umbrella organization of its 13 affiliates representing presently 3500 members. It is independent, representative and democratic in nature and strives to maintain this in the days to come. It is the largest and only workes’  organization operating from exile (Nepal, India & Europe) though it has established a strong base inside Bhutan, FOBTU believes in the equal participation of women in all the decision making levels as such women empowerment is the primary agenda of its activities. The women have their own forum known as “ FOBTU-Women Forum”. The youth play the most vital role in shaping the policy and procedures of FOBTU as they have their forum called “FOBTU- Youth Forum”. Likewise there are other forums for effective coordination of FOBTU’s activities like The Children Forum, Human Rights and Trade Union Rights Forum, Environment Forum and Forum for Social activities. Each forum is specialised and committed to its mandate  and carry out its activities in close cooperation with the FOBTU Secretariat.