The Bhutan Media Foundation (BMF), in collaboration with the Department of Media, Creative Industry & Intellectual Property (DoMCIIP), Ministry of Industry, Commerce & Employment, conducted a Media Engagement Workshop for Government Officials: Strengthening Government–Media Relations from May 22–23, 2025, at the Thimphu Press Club.

The workshop aimed to strengthen the capacity of government media focal officers to engage effectively with the media, enhance access to information, and foster stronger government–media relations. A total of 14 media focal officers from the Prime Minister’s Office, ministries, constitutional bodies, autonomous agencies, Thimphu Thromde, and CSOs participated.

The programme began with an opening address by Mr. Sonam Penjor, Director of DoMCIIP, followed by a keynote speech from the Guest of Honour, Dasho Dr. Tshering Cigay Dorji, Hon’ble Commissioner of the Royal Civil Service Commission. Key sessions included:
•⁠ ⁠Media landscape and open Government
•⁠ ⁠SOP on Information Sharing with the Media
•⁠ ⁠Building media relations, press release writing, and media briefings
•⁠ ⁠Media interview skills
•⁠ ⁠Media situation in Bhutan and the World Press Freedom Index
•⁠ ⁠Social Media for Government Officials
•⁠ ⁠Crisis Communication

Throughout the workshop, both participants and facilitators emphasized the value of sustained government–media engagement in promoting transparency, accountability, and public trust. The event was found very impactful and concluded with active participation and a shared commitment to enhancing communication between the government and the media.