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

MORE FROM HOME

Colombia – A Success Story for Peace?

In 2024, global conflict levels are historically high. One country seemingly defying this trend is Colombia, which continues to take cautious steps towards a more peaceful development after nearly 60 years of conflict. Following the peace agreement with the FARC guerrilla in 2016, negotiations are now underway with the largest remaining guerrilla group, the ELN, as part of President Gustavo Petro's comprehensive peace project, Paz Total – total peace. But how well does the image of Colombia as a peaceful success story hold up, and what lessons can be drawn from the country's peace process?

2024-03-28 11:07

On international deployment

Read our publications

An Insider’s View: Lessons from the Afghan Peace Process, 2001-2021

This insider’s view gives a first-hand account of the Afghan peace process between the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban between 2001 and 2021.

Documents
Attributes
Author:
Baryalai Helali
Year:
2024

THE FBA BLOG

FBA has both increased and adapted its work in Ukraine in the wake of Russia's invasion.

The War in Ukraine – How FBA is Assisting

FBA has both increased and adapted its work in Ukraine in the wake of Russia's invasion.

FBA in Ukraine
""

Pär Sköld

Pär is expert on Liberia, peace and democracy building

More about our experts
""

Our partner countries

FBA is part of Sweden’s development aid within the area of peace and security

Read more about the countries where we work

Upcoming courses

Twitter