No. 115: Myanmar: Limited Reforms, Continued Military Dominance

No. 115: Myanmar: Limited Reforms, Continued Military Dominance

Author(s): Prem Mahadevan
Editor(s): Daniel Möckli
Series: CSS Analyses in Security Policy
Issue: 115
Publisher(s): Center for Security Studies, ETH Zurich
Publication Year: 2012

After decades of military rule, Myanmar is experiencing a remarkable period of political change. There are, however, limits to democratisation at this stage, as the reform process is largely controlled by military leaders. Myanmar's efforts to reduce its dependence on China and engage more closely with the global economy have given rise to international competition for influence and access to the country’s natural resources. Still, given the uncertainties about Myanmar’s political future, Western countries should proceed cautiously.

Graphics:

Enlarged view:
Myanmar and its Neighbours
JavaScript has been disabled in your browser