New mission: peacebuilding in Myanmar

Myanmar has been plagued by civil war for over fifty years. In recent times, the violence has further escalated, with a humanitarian crisis as a consequence. FBA is now being tasked with peacebuilding in Myanmar.

The Swedish government has decided upon a new strategy for Sweden’s development cooperation with Myanmar during 2018–2022. Sweden’s two state agencies for development cooperation, SIDA and FBA, are both commissioned to work for peace, security and development in Myanmar.

– The situation in the country is very serious and deeply worrying, says Lisa Ljungström, acting project manager for the FBA’s work in Myanmar.

– Myanmar faces several challenges. Long-term internal armed conflicts, recurring natural disasters, severe poverty and a lack of respect for human rights are some of the factors that contribute to a difficult and complex context.

According to the new strategy, FBA’s mission during the coming years is to contribute to inclusive peacebuilding and dialogue and to strengthen respect for the rule of law in Myanmar. A total of 30 million SEK from the Swedish development cooperation budget is allocated to the FBA’s assignment.

– Peacebuilding is crucial for socio-economic development. Strengthened respect for the rule of law contributes to protection of the rights of the citizens and improved public service, and it improves the conditions for democratic change, Lisa Ljungström says.

Photo: Paul Arps

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Beyond Vulnerability: A Guidance Note on Youth, Climate, Peace and Security

In recent years, young people’s crucial role in preventing conflict and maintaining peace has become increasingly recognized as the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda has gained momentum. At the same time, the Climate, Peace and Security (CPS) field is developing rapidly at the research and policy levels. CPS is also increasingly becoming an entry point for programming; recognizing the interactions between climate change and existing vulnerabilities, which compound risks of insecurity, including violent conflict and the erosion of social cohesion.

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Beyond Vulnerability: A Guidance Note on Youth, Climate, Peace and Security

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