An Assessment of Vulnerable and At-risk Adolescents (13-18 years) in Bhutan

The overall aim of the assessment was to gather strategic information about the behaviours and needs of vulnerable and at-risk adolescents in Bhutan aged 13-18 years. The focus of the assessment was on specific behaviours and settings that make this important, yet sometimes forgotten, group of adolescents susceptible to negative social and health outcomes including: tobacco use, alcohol and drug misuse; early school leaving; pregnancy; sexually transmitted infections, including HIV; and violence.

HIV prevalence is currently low in Bhutan however understanding the context for sexual behaviour, violence, and drug use is important for planning future adolescent related policies and programmes - not just for HIV prevention but also to foster healthy sexuality and positive relationships; tobacco, alcohol and drug education; prevention of gender based violence and promotion of mental health.