A forum for Myanmar’s democratic future in a time of crisis

 Part of the Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar initiative, this flagship gathering serves as a hub of ideas and platform for action for those who wish to articulate and realize a democratic future for Myanmar. The marketplace will feature research on digital rights and security and gender-equality work from the past year, among other themes. 

With Myanmar’s future uncertain, the gathering will discuss the need for continued and expanded support for Myanmar, particularly for women and ethnic minorities, and the country’s future — a critical issue with broader security implications for the Indo-Pacific region. 

Despite intensified repression, Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar continues to support the country’s knowledge community. Co-funded by IDRC and Global Affairs Canada, the initiative’s fellowships, mentorship and research grants support scholars and civil-society leaders in exile and inside Myanmar.  

The 2025 Marketplace will celebrate key milestones from the past year, including growing diaspora influence in Canada, through the efforts of the University of British Colombia’s Myanmar Initiative and the University of Toronto’s Myanmar Policy and Community Knowledge Hub, which are contributing to Canada’s foreign policy engagement on Myanmar. 

This year’s marketplace unfolds in the wake of immense tragedy — and transformation. On March 28, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar’s Sagaing Region, killing thousands of people and displacing many more. Myanmar’s network of diaspora scholars and fellows — including many supported by Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar — mobilized to raise funds, coordinate relief and raise awareness about the crisis internationally.  

The marketplace stands as a living laboratory of resistance, innovation, and hope — a powerful testament to the enduring role of education, solidarity and knowledge exchange in the fight for democracy.  

Learn more about the 2025 Knowledge Marketplace for Myanmar