In particular the speed of politico-economic changes

spearheaded by President Thein Sein and his government compel experts to

move from pure analysis to more action-centred approaches and policy

recommendations.

At the same time, prognoses are dangerous where uncertainty continues.

Political transitions of any kind are by nature dynamic, fragile and to a certain

extent reversible. The question of the hour is how to foster irreversible progress

towards good governance, rule of law, democratisation, de-centralisation, conflict

resolution, peace-building and poverty eradication.

Symposium speakers analysed dynamics related to the reform process, the vast

challenges posed by the country’s multi-layered crises built up over decades, and

the roles of international governments and transnational actors in assisting

Myanmar to master these challenges. The immense potential gains and

opportunities for all stakeholders were examined and corresponding development

agendas and policies identified.