Ethnicity and Democratization in Myanmar

Bibliographic Data

ID6233715
AuthorsIan Holliday (University of Hong Kong, corresponding author)
Year2010
Volume18
Issue2
Pages111-128
Publication date2010-08-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueAsian Journal of Political Science (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0218-5377 • E-ISSN: 1750-7812
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/02185377.2010.492975
OpenAlexW2087891215
LanguageEN
Citations received27
References cited37

Myanmar is embarking on political reforms that could prove to be the first stage of a gradual transition to democracy. However, critical problems of ethnic discord remain to be resolved. This article draws on the literature on multiculturalism to examine ways forward. First it considers how other democratic states have sought to manage ethnic relations, and constructs a matrix of four ideal types: multiculturalism; ethnic enclaves; assimilation; and marginalization. Next it demonstrates just how difficult matters of ethnicity and identity were in the development of modern Burma. Then it surveys possibilities for ethnic relations in contemporary Myanmar. Finally it sketches future pathways. A brief conclusion reinforces the core argument. Ethnic enclaves and assimilation are the major contenders for ethnic policy in Myanmar. Their relative merits will need to be debated as openly as possible during any future democratization process. © 2010 Asian Journal of Political Science

Argument (complex analysis · Assimilation (phonology · Democracy · Democratization · Development economics · Ethnic conflict · Ethnic group · Multiculturalism · Political economy · Political science · Politics · Sociology · Asian Geopolitics and Ethnography · Gender Studies · Global Peace and Security Dynamics · Law · Migration, Health and Trauma

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