| Summary/Abstract |
T This article suggests that a political censorship regime
exists in Bhutan and that appeals to ensure security and sovereignty
of the country, rather than power, are used to uphold this regime.
Fieldwork uncovers that fear of how authorities may punish
anyone in open opposition is widespread among Bhutanese college
students. A number of political issues are characterised as ‘sensitive’
by informants and skilful navigation around them is needed. The
perception of free speech as limited inspires self-censorship in public
and in private among Bhutanese college students. Free speech is
practised in culturally specific ways and online, where anonymous
opposition against the established correct ‘non-discourse’ is known
as ‘silent protests’.
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