Recently returned from three weeks in Myanmar (or Burma, as the British government still insists on calling it). A joyous experience, but one which still leaves me uncertain as to the country's future. Whilst there have certainly been some limited signs of an opening up and a relaxation in certain of the restrictions placed upon the people, including the welcome recent release of a small number of political prisoners, it's far from evident that this extends to some of the more underlying issues.
That there is now open dissent visible on the streets is undeniable - from the posters of Aung San Suu Ky being sold on every streeet corner in Yangon to the Art of Freeedom festival presenting dissident films - but it yet to be determined whether this is a superficial act on the part of the ruling USDP to achieve the raising of sanctions or a more meaningful change in the way the country is governed. And for whom it is governed.
Sadly, much of the country remains out of bounds to foreigners (unless facilitated by expensive government operated tours), however, where ever I travelled I found a beautiful country with warm and generous people eager to invite you into their lives. And, indeed, full of hope.
Burmese Days
That there is now open dissent visible on the streets is undeniable - from the posters of Aung San Suu Ky being sold on every streeet corner in Yangon to the Art of Freeedom festival presenting dissident films - but it yet to be determined whether this is a superficial act on the part of the ruling USDP to achieve the raising of sanctions or a more meaningful change in the way the country is governed. And for whom it is governed.
Sadly, much of the country remains out of bounds to foreigners (unless facilitated by expensive government operated tours), however, where ever I travelled I found a beautiful country with warm and generous people eager to invite you into their lives. And, indeed, full of hope.
Burmese Days
annalee:
Beautiful photographs. What brought you to that part of the world. My teacher was there years ago, I think for a year but then had to leave as it was at a time too dangerous for westerners to stay there.
mercier:
@annalee I had wanted to visit Myanmar for years, but it is only recently that the NLD (Aung San Suu Kyi's opposition party), with the first signs of possible political moderation, have changed their stance and suggested that foreign visitors might benefit the country rather than contributing to the support of the post-junta government. That said, it is still best to avoid any business sponsored by the state or their cronies. I've travelled quite extensively and people are generally warm and welcoming wherever one goes, but Myanmar was probably the single most joyful place I have visited, despite what has gone before and the ongoing religious tensions. Hope to return at the earliest opportunity...