The Role of Civil Society in Promoting Democracy, Good governance, Peace and National Reconciliation in Myanmar

Title: The Role of Civil Society in Promoting Democracy, Good Governance, Peace and National Reconciliation in Myanmar

Author: Peter Sang Lian Thang
Institution: University of Agder, Norway (2013)

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Overview

This master’s thesis is a qualitative study that examines how Civil Society (CS) has contributed to democracy, good governance, peace, and national reconciliation in Myanmar. It focuses especially on changes before and after the 2010 general election—a moment when Myanmar began shifting from strict military rule toward wider political openness.

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Key Points

1. Context and Background

• Myanmar has long been ruled by military regimes and has experienced ethnic conflicts and political exclusion.

• The 2010 election marked a significant opening of political space.

• The author traces CS development across historical periods: pre-independence, post-independence under military rule, and post-2010 reforms.

2. Redefining Civil Society

• Civil society is conceptualized as a realm between the state and individuals made up of voluntary, autonomous organizations.

• These include NGOs, faith-based groups, political organizations, media, student groups, professionals/intellectuals, and ad-hoc groups.

3. Research Questions

The thesis explores:

1. Who the main CS actors are and how they promote political and social reforms.

2. How CS interacts with the state, citizens, and other CS actors.

3. The successes and challenges CS faces.

4. How CS roles have changed following the 2010 election.

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Findings

Significant Contributions of Civil Society

• CS plays a significant role in promoting democratic values, encouraging civic participation, holding authorities accountable, and supporting good governance ideals.

• After 2010, CS has greater space to operate and influence change, including supporting peace processes and reconciliation efforts among diverse ethnic groups.

Challenges Identified

• Despite progress, many CS groups still lack sufficient capacity, resources, and coordinated strategies to drive major political change.

• Under earlier military rule, CS was severely restricted; this has constrained its institutional development relative to CS in more open societies.

Comparative Insight

• The thesis compares CS roles before and after the 2010 election, noting that while CS now has more influence, its greatest impacts remain in social and humanitarian areas rather than in driving deep political reforms.

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Conclusion

Civil society in Myanmar has played and continues to play an important role in shaping democratic norms, governance, peace, and reconciliation. However, its impact is still limited by historical constraints and current institutional weaknesses. The study suggests strengthening CS capacity and collaboration as crucial steps for deeper reform.