Ok, the whole Burma/Myanmar name debate has probably been done a hundred times over. For most people involved in the democracy struggle, using 'Burma' as an act of defiance and a show of solidarity is enough. For those who are not, they often at some point learn that 'Myanmar' is simply the Burmese pronunciation of Burma, and suddenly they think using 'Myanmar' is really not such a big deal. Its a bit more complicated than just a English/Burmese language issue, though. I came across a great Wiki on the topic: Explanation of the names of Burma/Myanmar. It explained alot more than I was previously aware of, and its definitely worth a read. Here's a tantalizing excerpt:    more »

Since Vaclav Havel and Archbishop Desmond Tutu have called on the UN Security Council to take action on the Burma issue, it seems the heat’s really starting to turn up on the junta. The US is also pushing for the Security Council to put Burma on the agenda during the next month. The ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar (Burma) Caucus has also called on ASEAN to increase pressure on the junta to implement democratic reforms - and to suspend its membership if progress is not made within a year. Even a Thai Senator, Kraisak Choonhaven, stated that the relinquishment of the 2006 ASEAN chairmanship “heralded the start of further action against the generals”. (Watch out Mr. Thaksin, a senator supporting sanctions against Burma might lead to an epidemic of people following their own conscience instead of government rhetoric.) One could almost feel as if we are reaching a turning point in the crisis.   more »

The Democratic Voice of Burma runs a section called 'Let's Talk', where readers can submit their comments on issues. One of the latest topics is the aid to Burma dilemma. Check it out.

When the Global Fund pulled out of Burma in August it sparked a flurry of debate and commentary over the issue of sending humanitarian aid to Burma. The Global Fund had promised US $98.4 million to fight HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria in the country. It faced criticism going into Burma in the first place, from those who support total sanctions, and it faced criticism when it pulled out, from those who support ‘constructive engagement’ - at least in the form of aid. The Global Fund rejected claims that it had ultimately pulled out because of criticism from the former, instead citing restrictions placed on their operation, and movements, by the junta.

I have to say, when I first heard of Global Fund pulling out, my immediate reaction was that it is a good thing. Ultimately, though, I am not from Burma, and my opinion on such issues isn’t nearly as important as the opinions of those who are. But my own friends, who are, did express their agreement with my own feelings; it would be impossible to run such a well-funded and extensive operation without corruption funneling a huge chunk of that money right into the generals’ pockets.   more »