Support for public policy to Myanmar pro-democracy stakeholders: fellowships and training

 

From 2010 to 2021, the Union of the Republic of Myanmar, one of the poorest countries in Asia, made significant strides in openness compared to its early days of isolation. In 2017, to sustain emerging democratization, IDRC and Global Affairs Canada launched the Knowledge for Democracy – Myanmar (K4DM) Initiative to nurture capacity for meaningful engagement and to promote better governance, working with scholars, policy actors and activists.

In February 2021, the Myanmar military brought this democratic episode to a sudden halt. Civilian protests intensified against the coup, and the situation has continued to escalate into volent conflict. Canada’s support for independent policy research and pro-democratic voices in Myanmar is now more necessary than ever to protect the gains made and to prepare for a future return to democracy. The second phase of the K4DM Initiative (K4DM2) aims to develop a strong and well-informed civil society, mostly outside of Myanmar, to contribute to an inclusive, gender-sensitive vision that embodies democratic gains achieved prior to the military coup. K4DM2 will do this through online training, a wide range of fellowships, and research focused on digital rights.

This project focuses on online training, to be provided by UBC and partners, as well as fellowships at UBC and other partner organizations in Asia and North America. This form of continuing education is a vital element for the growing body of young researchers and leaders that will play a central role not only in securing previous gains, but also in ensuring the eventual return of an inclusive and liberal democracy in the country. In addition, it contributes to the expansion of virtual civic spaces and strengthens emerging pro-democracy research institutions.