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  • Essay / Political Crisis in Myanmar: Towards a Democratic Nation

    The purpose of this note is to discuss the crisis in Myanmar, one of the ASEAN member states. The situation in Myanmar worsened after the elections on November 7, 2010. They cost many lives and also injured many people of Myanmar. This also caused political instability in Myanmar. International media claimed that a lack of coordination by the United Nations was to blame. At present, ASEAN, as a regional grouping that includes Myanmar, is seen as the most appropriate mediator in trying to find a solution to the problem. Decisions must be made on what steps to take to resolve this issue and reduce tensions in Myanmar. Two possible and viable options currently are to integrate Myanmar through constructive engagement or to abolish the policy of non-interference in ASEAN. . The first option will be to use a “soft approach” to help Myanmar overcome the situation. This will help Myanmar maneuver to transform itself into a democratic nation. On the other hand, the second option would require ASEAN to abolish the non-interference policy which no longer seems relevant to solving the problem in Myanmar. Considering both options would put ASEAN’s reputation at stake. As a reputable organization, ASEAN should join hands to help Myanmar resolve the issue. It is recommended that ASEAN chooses the first option to resolve Myanmar's problems, as this approach is considered more practical in the face of the current Myanmar government. . Additionally, this proposal will include the lifting of sanctions against Myanmar. ASEAN can be a mediator for both the government and an observer to ensure the happy medium of the paper proposal. ASEAN should use it as a factor to unify the people of Myanmar and give them the chance to participate in the engagement. It is clear that the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to helping the people of Myanmar become a democratic nation. ASEAN, as a reputable organization, can play a mediating and leadership role for Myanmar to realize its dream. Stability in Myanmar can translate into greater political engagement as well as higher growth in regional economic relations. THANKS. Works Cited (2009). ASEAN President's Statement on Myanmar. Bangkok. Brown, E. (2008). The need for an integrated international approach to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar/Burma. Budapest, Hungary. Sukma, R. (January 20, 2011). ASEAN's new approach to Myanmar is nothing new. Jakarta Post. Jakarta.