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

Scholarship Opportunity for Young Leaders in Women, Peace and Security in DRC and Afghanistan

Are you a young peacebuilder at the beginning of your career with a strong commitment to women, peace and security? Do you have experience working in this field in the Democratic Republic of Congo or Afghanistan and want to take your commitment to the next level? Then you have the opportunity to apply for the 1325 scholarship for 2026.

2025-11-06 15:30

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The Gender-Responsive Leader's Handbook

Gender equality is both a goal and a prerequisite for sustainable peace and development. FBA’s Gender-Responsive Leadership (GRL) Initiative is designed to support leaders and managers within organizations such as the EU, UN, ECOWAS, OSCE and the African Union to fulfill their central role in enabling gender equal peace, security and development work.

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