The role of international support in Myanmar's democratic transition

This lecture will explore the critical importance of international recognition and support for the National Unity Government of Myanmar (NUG) as Myanmar strives for a peaceful and democratic future. Minister Zin Mar Aung will highlight the geopolitical dynamics influencing Myanmar's situation, emphasising the strategic roles of Western countries and the contrasting positions within ASEAN. The lecture will also address the impact of neighbouring countries like China and India on Myanmar’s political landscape. Minister Zin Mar Aung will discuss how global cooperation and unified international actions can bolster Myanmar's democratic transition, foster stability, and ensure respect for human rights. The lecture aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the NUG’s efforts and the indispensable role of international support in overcoming the challenges posed by the military junta. Through collaborative international efforts, Myanmar can navigate its path towards a democratic and inclusive future.

About the speaker

H.E. Zin Mar Aung was born in 1976. In 1988, she participated in the strike as a member of the Primary Students’ Union of North Okkalapa. In 1996, she was involved in Dagon University Students’ movement. In 1998, she participated in the 10th anniversary of the 8888 revolution and the movement to release the arrested students. She was arrested after that and sentenced to 28 years in prison. After spending 11 years at notorious Insein Prison and Mandalay Prison, she was released in 2009. After being released, she immediately resumed political activities. She founded Yangon School of Political Science (YSPS) and Rainfall Gender Studies Organization. In 2012, she was awarded the International Women of Courage award by the United States Secretary of States. In 2014, she was nominated for the World Global Leader 2014 by the World Economic Forum.

She is the Deputy of the Central Women Committee of the National League for Democracy (NLD). In 2015, she contested in the general elections and got elected as a Parliamentary Member of House of People’s Representatives from Yankin Township. She was a member of the Social Affairs Committee of the House of People’s Representatives and a member of the Public Accounts Committee of the Assembly of the Union. She was re-elected in the 2020 general elections. She was also a Country Representative for ASEAN Women Peace Registry (AWPR). Currently, she is a Member of the Committee Representing Pyidaung Hluttaw (CRPH) and Union Foreign Minister of the National Unity Government (NUG).

Light refreshments in the Atrium at 5pm
Lecture in HB1 at 5.30pm

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