Burma in Transition: On the Path to Democracy
Abstract
The world has recently witnessed a radical transformation in the government of Burma. Sweeping reforms have led the change from a military junta to a more democratic form of government. The reforms initiated by Thein Sein and the parliament are embedded enough that a rapid reversion is unlikely, and the trend of democratization in Burma will continue at a slow pace through the 2015 elections. The transformation began in the 1990s and represents a long-form process of democratization. President Thein Sein continued those reforms at a rapid pace after adoption of the constitution and general elections. The Parliament has assumed responsibility as a legislative body, passing more liberal laws and acting as a check on the executive branch. Aung San Suu Kyi and the NLD established legal legitimacy and their continued focus on democracy guarantees the process, while the military has backed away from political influence. Meanwhile, the U.S. should encourage the transformation using all instruments of national power.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 30, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1045256
Entities
People
- David Faehnle
Organizations
- Naval War College