How to Engage Authoritarian Regimes: The Case of Burma

Global efforts over the last two decades to influence the military regime in Burma (Myanmar) have been largely ineffective. With the current leadership slated to retire following elections next year, the situation is at a critical juncture. How can the international community more effectively promote peace, respect for human rights, and better governance in the country?

At this Open Society Fellowship Program event, three distinguished speakers reflect on their own experiences in trying to influence the authoritarian regime in Burma. They will present their thoughts on what approaches are likely to be most successful in the future and address the following questions:

• What potential is there for progress on human rights issues while the military remains in control?
• How can poverty and suffering be alleviated?
• Can the U.S. government’s reinvigorated foreign policy and renewed Asia focus give it some leverage?

Panelists

• Richard Horsey, Open Society Fellow
• Priscilla Clapp, former U.S. Chief of Mission in Burma (1999-2002)
• Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, former UN Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Burma
• Maureen Aung-Thwin, Director, Open Society Institute Burma Project (moderator)