Rescuing Democracy in Myanmar
Channel: United States Institute of Peace
Date: 2023-03-24

Exploring the Implications of the Pro-Democracy Movement for Peace and Security

For decades, the democracy deficit in Myanmar has left its people vulnerable to violence and instability. Since first coming to power in 1962, a draconian military regime has deployed brutal tactics against minorities and individuals seeking democratic freedoms. In that time, the military has routinely thwarted efforts to build peace despite ever-worsening internal conflict, particularly with ethnic groups. Even during the country’s brief and limited democratic turn from 2011 to 2021, the military-drafted constitution prevented genuine democracy from developing. And the military coup in February 2021 has only unleashed further violence, instability and human suffering on the people of Myanmar.

However, a diverse group of pro-democracy actors has come together in the two years since the military coup. Despite facing violent oppression and mass arrests, this movement has slowly grown in strength and is now engaged in an armed struggle against the military with the goal of creating a genuine federal democracy in Myanmar.

On March 24, USIP hosted a unique conversation featuring representatives of key pro-democracy stakeholders, including major ethnic resistance organizations and the National Unity Government, who addressed the critical role of democracy in shaping a peaceful future. A panel of experts then discussed opportunities for U.S. and international assistance to support a peaceful and democratic Myanmar.

For more information about this event, please visit: https://www.usip.org/events/rescuing-democracy-myanmar

Panelists:

Christina Fink
Professor of Practice of International Affairs; Director, B.A. and B.S. International Affairs, George Washington University

Johanna Kao
Regional Director, Asia, International Republican Institute

Scot Marciel
Former U.S. Ambassador to Burma

Moe Zaw Oo
Deputy Foreign Minister of National Unity Government of Myanmar

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The United States Institute of Peace is a national, nonpartisan, independent institute, founded by Congress and dedicated to the proposition that a world without violent conflict is possible, practical and essential for U.S. and global security. In conflict zones abroad, the Institute works with local partners to prevent, mitigate, and resolve violent conflict. To reduce future crises and the need for costly interventions, USIP works with governments and civil societies to build local capacities to manage conflict peacefully. The Institute pursues its mission by linking research, policy, training, analysis and direct action to support those who are working to build a more peaceful, inclusive world. Learn more about USIP: https://www.usip.org/about