Myanmar is in the early stages of a transition to a more open government with greater citizen engagement, as stated in its development strategy. However, the practice of engaging communities in the design, delivery and quality assurance of public services is in its infancy, and support for it is patchy among politicians and civil servants. With this project, Helvetas supported equitable and accountable civic engagement in Myanmar.
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Project NamePEACE – Promoting Equitable, Accountable, Civic Engagement in Myanmar
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Project Phase2016 to 2020
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FundingThis project is co-funded by the European Union.
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Thematic focusAdvocacy
Voice, Inclusion & Cohesion
Myanmar has a dynamic and diverse civil society. However, because of the country´s recent history, citizens lack knowledge and confidence to exercise their rights. Before the current transition, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) primarily engaged in advocacy and demonstrations, opposing the government, and in delivering services outside government channels. In contrast, CSOs have relatively little or no experience in implementing long-term development projects, and in constructively participating in dialogue with the government. In order to be successful in long-term projects and with different kinds of local authorities, local CSOs therefore need to enhance their knowledge, skills, and experiences.
The project PEACE contributes to enhance resources and strengthens capacities of local CSOs for an empowered and accountable civil society in Myanmar that embraces diversity, promotes social inclusiveness, accountability, transparency and civic responsibility.
PEACE strengthens the capacities of local CSOs in the long term. The project is able to play a more influential role at national and sub-national level and contributes to a more equitable development of Myanmar.
The project is funded by the European Union. More information on the EU representation in Myanmar can be found here.
Promoting Equitable, Accountable, Civic Engagement in Myanmar
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