Myanmar's Fragmented Democracy: Transition Or Illusion?

The recent military coup in Myanmar has set the country back to the days of political uncertainty and military authoritarianism. This book examines how far the country has come since its nascent attempt at democratic reforms and democratisation in 2010. The extent to which democratic reforms have been achieved, the significance of the three elections, the transformation of the National League for Democracy, the role of the Union Solidarity and Development Party, the ethnic crisis, and Myanmar's relations with the global and regional community are all considered. The book argues that Myanmar has been locked in a perpetual cycle transitioning between military authoritarianism and democratisation, leading to a fragmented democracy and a lost opportunity to demonstrate its foray into a genuine democracy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2022
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

The recent military coup in Myanmar, perpetrated by the Tatmadaw, has brought the country back to a period of political uncertainty and military authoritarianism, reminiscent of its earlier days. This book delves into the journey of Myanmar since its initial attempt at democratic reforms and democratization in 2010.

In the first chapter, the book examines the extent to which democratic reforms have been achieved since the Constitution was formalized in 2008. Debates have arisen regarding the degree to which democratic principles have been incorporated into the country's political system.

The second chapter explores the significance of the three elections held in 2010, 2015, and 2020. These elections marked significant milestones in Myanmar's political landscape, providing opportunities for citizens to participate in the democratic process. However, questions have been raised about the fairness and transparency of these elections, as well as the impact they have had on the country's political development.

The third chapter examines the transformation of the National League for Democracy (NLD) over the past decade. The NLD, which emerged as the dominant political party after the 2010 elections, has faced challenges and changes within its leadership and organization. The party has grappled with internal divisions and has had to navigate a complex political landscape.

The fourth chapter delves into the roles played by the Tatmadaw, the country's military government, in the last decade. The Tatmadaw has been a dominant force in Myanmar's politics, exerting control over the government and the military. The chapter explores the extent to which the Tatmadaw has influenced the country's political landscape, including its involvement in the ethnic crisis, particularly the Rohingya issue.

The fifth chapter examines how the ethnic crisis, particularly the Rohingya issue, has continued to dominate the country's political landscape in the last decade, overshadowing the democratization process. The Rohingya crisis has been a source of deep division and conflict, leading to international condemnation and pressure on Myanmar to address the issue.

The final chapter explores how far these efforts at democracy have demonstrated Myanmar's futile attempts to appease both the domestic and international audience. Myanmar's relations with the global and regional community, particularly the United States, China, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), have taken a toll in the last decade. There is a shift in power politics, with China emerging as a significant player in Myanmar's affairs.

In conclusion, Myanmar has been caught in a perpetual cycle of transitioning between military authoritarianism and democratization. These prevailing issues have led to a fragmented democracy and a lost opportunity to demonstrate the country's genuine commitment to democracy. The book highlights the challenges and complexities that Myanmar faces in its journey towards a more inclusive and democratic society.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811251351