The Issues
Since 2011, Myanmar’s domestic reforms and improved relations with the United States, European Union, Japan, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have opened the door for Myanmar to become an important regional player. Myanmar’s foreign policy development and growing regional role are affecting not only the country's own economic development but also the strength and coherence of ASEAN. Despite notable setbacks in Myanmar’s democratic transition, the country’s strategic and political outlooks continue to evolve. Understanding the domestic and regional dynamics that shape Myanmar’s foreign policy is critical to supporting its re-emergence as a responsible state.
Project Objectives
In October of 2013, NBR organized a study tour of Myanmar by the project’s senior advisors to meet with government, business, and civil society stakeholders. This laid the groundwork for the subsequent report “Myanmar’s Growing Regional Role,” which aimed to support Myanmar’s 2014 chairmanship of ASEAN.
Project Activities
An organized study tour of Myanmar by the project’s senior advisors to meet with government, business, and civil society stakeholders. This laid the groundwork for the publication of a of project report to support Myanmar’s 2014 chairmanship of ASEAN.
A public report rollout in Washington, D.C., highlighting the findings of the study trip and implications for U.S. policy.
A workshop on the West Coast to provide a venue for scholars, civil society representatives, business leaders, and government officials to discuss Myanmar’s re-emergence.
Policy Importance
NBR has identified the opportunities and challenges presented by Myanmar’s re-emergence and is providing recommendations for Myanmar, the United States, and other regional actors as Naypyidaw assumes a more prominent international role. This includes outlining specific steps the international community can take to facilitate Myanmar’s development of a capable foreign ministry, active civil society, and strong cohort of experts integrated into regional networks.