Karin Limdal
New mission: 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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