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 Pyakurel
Chair, Board of Directors
Community leader, social justice advocate, and former Bhutanese refugee serving as the Executive Director of BCCO. Dedicated to refugee empowerment, mental health advocacy, and peacebuilding.
Suraj Budathoki
Board Member
NH State Representative, former Bhutanese refugee, business owner, and doctoral student at Saybrook University focused on transforming conflict into dialogue, trust, and shared humanity.
Kailash Mishra
Board Member
Bhutanese American community leader involved in organizing, youth engagement, and advocacy. J.D. Candidate at the University of Illinois College of Law.
Puspa Tiwari
Board Member
Community advocate and White House delegate for Bhutanese American issues. Active member of PIB since its inception, supporting peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts.
Aarati Chapagai
Board Member
Bhutanese American professional with experience at Cardinal Health and JPMorgan Chase. Actively engaged in community initiatives, youth empowerment, and civic engagement.
Board of Advisors
Dr. Anneloes Smitsman
Advisor
Futurist, systems scientist, and award-winning author. Founder and CEO of EARTHwise Centre, focused on catalyzing a thrivable future.
Theo-Spanos Dunfey
Advisor
President and Executive Director of Global Citizens Circle with over 30 years of experience in non-profits, higher education, and international affairs.
Dr. Cora Quisumbing-King
Advisor
Filipino American social and organizational psychologist, Fulbright-Hays scholar, and community advocate for racial equity and immigrant rights.
Beena Sarwar
Advisor
Pakistani journalist, editor, filmmaker, and peace activist. Founder and editor of Sapan News Network, Nieman Fellow at Harvard.
Dr. Daniel Chidubem Gbujie
Advisor
Nigerian global health consultant, climate advocate, and founder of Team 54 Project International advancing climate action in over 100 countries.
Bill Gillett
Advisor
Director of Public Policy & Advocacy at the International Institute of New England, a key voice for inclusive and equitable immigration policies.
Dr. Uzma Gul
Advisor
Distinguished human rights advocate, alternate representative to the UN for the International Alliance of Women, advancing gender equality and social justice.
Our Team
Passionate organizers, researchers, educators, and advocates driving forward the mission of Peace Initiative Bhutan.
Kailash Mishra
Research & Communication
Aarati 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.