Myanmar Programme 2016

MYANMAR’S POLITICAL BACKGROUND Since 2011, Myanmar has gradually been returning to civilian rule, cumulating in historic nationwide elections held on November 8th, 2015, and the subsequent installation of new parliaments 3 months later. Over the past few years, a series of social and economic reforms were launched in Myanmar, opening up the country to the global community after a long period of isolation. At the same time, the country is still trying to end conflict with some of its numerous ethnic groups. THE APPROACH OF NIMD IN MYANMAR Together with Demo Finland, NIMD started working in Myanmar in 2014. The programme in Myanmar has two key aims. The first is to help the politicians from all the political parties to enhance their knowledge and skills for working in a democracy. The second is to develop the practice of collaboration. The programme works on both of these aims by running the Myanmar School of Politics (MySoP), an intensive retreat lasting up to one month, held at a secluded location. During MySoP, politicians from different parties discuss and learn together in a multiparty setting. During 2014 and 2015, these schools have been held in Shan State, Mon State, and Tanintharyi Division, with Kayin State and Kayah State added in 2016. MySoP is followed by activities for its alumni. These activities provide an opportunity for the politicians to keep coming together to learn and practice interparty dialogue. Bram Steenhuisen is Demo Finland’s and NIMD’s Country Representative in Myanmar. In an interview with Demo Finland he gives an insight into the school’s activities.