The absence of modern technological infrastructure is one of the most detrimental legacies of Myanmar’s decades of isolation. Internet penetration is currently at 1 percent, the lowest in ASEAN. The situation was not helped by the confusing submissions process that potential investors faced during Myanmar’s January bidding round for telecoms licenses, which sparked concern from some about the country’s business potential.
Myanmar’s ICT deficit also presents major challenges for its political development. Decades of crackdowns on public association have left Myanmar civil society highly fragmented. Social media and mobile phones, which provide virtual avenues for interaction, are nearly absent. Political, business, and community associations, critical for a healthy democracy, will take years to develop. The government passed a law in December 2011 to allow peaceful demonstrations, but implementation remains haphazard.
Technology can play a vital role in fostering the growth of a vibrant civil society. In countries like Indonesia, online platforms provide important avenues for addressing social and political issues and formulating collective action. ICT can facilitate the development of formal and informal networks and linkages across Myanmar, bridging its fractured ethnic and religious terrain.