What Does Federal Democracy Mean for Myanmar?
MYANMAR STUDIES PROGRAMME
About the Webinar
Following the Myanmar military’s February 2021 seizure of power, elected lawmakers opposed to the coup and determined to steer the country toward a federal democratic future formed the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. This interim legislative body in turn established the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC), promulgated a Federal Democratic Charter, and in April 2021 formed the National Unity Government (NUG). The military’s continued repression of anti-coup protestors led the NUG to establish a People’s Defence Force and to declare armed resistance against the State Administration Council (SAC) junta.
Against this backdrop of crisis, warfare, and transformation, the NUCC has emerged as a crucial forum for discussion of and consensus on Myanmar’s future as a federal democracy. Nevertheless, the council and its plans to convene regular sessions of a People’s Assembly face continuing challenges—relating not least to the problems of a multi-ethnic country and to appropriate governance and social and cultural institutions. Assessing the NUCC’s work and those challenges sheds light on what federal democracy will mean for a post-SAC Myanmar.
About the Speaker
Saw Kapi is Director of the newly established School of Governance and Public Administration, a joint programme of Myanmar’s Salween Institute for Public Policy and Thabyay Education Network Foundation. A veteran political analyst with a particular focus on promoting federalism and good governance in Myanmar, Saw Kapi founded the Salween Institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from San Francisco State University and a master’s degree in development economics from Williams College.
Registration
This webinar will be delivered online entirely. You can join the webinar at the specified date and time using devices (computer, phone, or tablet) with internet connection.
Please register here to receive your unique link for joining the webinar.