Report on Activities to Support Democracy Activists in Burma as Required by the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003

Description: 

"The restoration of democracy in Burma is a priority U.S. policy objective in Southeast Asia. To achieve this objective, the United States has consistently supported democracy activists and their efforts both inside and outside Burma. However, programming aimed at organizing the democratic opposition in Burma has been difficult in the face of the military junta's tactics of terror, torture, intimidation, and censorship. As conditions have deteriorated inside Burma, especially since the events of May 30, 2003, it has become increasingly difficult to meet growing needs; many opposition leaders are detained and isolated. Addressing these needs requires flexibility and creativity. Despite the challenges that have arisen, United States Embassies Rangoon and Bangkok as well as Consulate General Chiang Mai are fully engaged in pro-democracy efforts. The United States also supports organizations, such as the National Endowment for Democracy, the Open Society Institute, and Internews, working inside and outside the region on a broad range of democracy promotion activities. U.S.-based broadcasters supply news and information to the Burmese people, who lack a free press. U.S. programs also fund scholarships for Burmese who represent the future of Burma. The United States is committed to working for a democratic Burma and will continue to employ a variety of tools to assist democracy activists..."

Source/publisher: 

US Dept. of State: Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

Date of Publication: 

2003-10-30

Date of entry: 

2003-11-10

Grouping: 

  • Individual Documents

Category: 

Language: 

English

Format: 

Size: