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The data revealed an alarming trend: 67.9% of economically active Bhutanese aged 23 to 37 actively participate in gaming platforms. While this may seem like a harmless form of entertainment, it raises serious concerns about the social and economic impact it could have on Bhutan’s young workforce. This trend deserves immediate attention as it could have far-reaching implications for the country’s future.
Widespread participation in gaming platforms indicates a significant diversion of disposable income towards gambling. For many young people in their prime working years, this diversion carries the risk of financial instability. Funds that could have been used for savings, investments or essential spending are diverted towards gambling activities. If not controlled, this can lead many people into a dangerous cycle of financial overextension. The temptation to continue gambling is often driven by the prospect of recovering losses, leading to borrowing money, trapping individuals in a cycle of debt that is difficult to escape.
Beyond the economic impact, the social and psychological impacts of such widespread participation in gambling cannot be ignored. High participation rates suggest a potential risk of gambling addiction, a serious problem with far-reaching consequences. Addiction can strain relationships, reduce productivity at work, and trigger mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. As more young people become involved in gambling, there is a real danger that the fabric of society will be eroded. The lure of “easy money” could undermine the ethics of hard work and perseverance that are essential for long-term stability and success. The risk with this continued trend is that we could see a cultural shift that prioritizes quick financial gains over more sustainable and ethical practices.
One might ask, so what?
The impact on national development is another area of concern. Economically active individuals are the backbone of Bhutan’s growth and development. If a large portion of this population group becomes distracted or financially strained by gambling, the consequences could be severe. Loss of productivity, coupled with reduced labor force participation, could ultimately slow the country’s economic development. There is a real danger that this could lead to a widening gap between the financially stable and the heavily indebted, and threaten the stability of the country’s social and economic fabric.
Moral and ethical issues must also be addressed. The gambling industry often targets young people who are more susceptible to the temptations of gambling, which raises ethical questions about the exploitation of vulnerable people, especially those who are still building their financial independence. We must recognize the need to take measures to promote responsible gambling and protect individuals from the risk of addiction.
Given its serious impact, it is imperative that stakeholders, including policymakers and the wider community, proactively address the issue. Measures such as awareness campaigns, stricter gambling regulation and support systems for those at risk of addiction must be implemented to safeguard the well-being of Bhutan’s young population.
If this growing problem is not addressed, it could have long-term negative impacts on our social and economic structures, undermining the foundations of national development and social harmony.
What’s really worrying is that this seemingly harmless pastime has turned into a national crisis.
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