Managing Change: Executive Policymaking in Myanmar

Since 2011, Myanmar has undergone a daunting transition from entrenched military rule to a more democratic form of governance that can address longstanding political, economic and social fissures. As the transition continues, what has become increasingly clear is that one of the biggest challenges for the government is how to solve technical problems by crafting policies that achieve sustainable, positive outcomes. Establishing the structures and processes for effective policymaking is critical to providing guidance for government policymakers grappling with many issues for the first time.

This report provides an introduction to policymaking in Myanmar, focusing on policymaking by the executive branch of the Union government in Nay Pyi Taw and detailing the key actors and processes that define policymaking in the country. Its primary goal is to contribute to a robust public discourse on how policymaking actors and processes in the country can be strengthened, without which it will be difficult for Myanmar to catalyze and sustain a host of reforms critical to democratic governance, economic growth, and peace. The report concludes with recommendations on how policymaking can be strengthened to better support reform.

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