WildFlower Land Awareness Working Group

Problem StatementThe dark veil of secrecy that shrouds Burma must be lifted before the back of democracy is broken completely.(11) In 1962, when General Ne Win's military took control of the country, the new government instituted several measures that effectively cut Burma off from the outside world. With SPDC's continued authoritarian government, this isolation has largely remained. Burma is still rarely mentioned in the international media, and is not a recognizable player in other international events such as business, sports, or art. The Burmese people and their elected, democratic leader, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi(12), have repeatedly asked for awareness, assistance and solidarity from the international community. Burmese people inside Burma and those living in exile - both in Thailand and abroad - are eager to share their stories of suffering at the hands of the military junta. However, due to the climate of fear in the Burmese society, and other problems such as language, the lack of freedom of movement, and ignorance due to a dreadful education system, the Burmese community has not been given ample opportunity to share their situation with the outside world. Another concern is the growing tourist industry in Burma. Due to economic sanctions and poor internal economic management, the military regime is in want of dollars, and has made a large effort to attract tourists, usually using forced labor to build tourist infrastructure. In addition, the military government is careful to present Burma in a way that masks the reality of life inside 'Myanmar'; such tactics include restricting the areas open to tourists, intimidating any visitor thought to have political aims, and oppressing any Burmese citizen who dares to speak the truth of their country. The primary concern is that an increased number of people will visit, unaware of the harsh reality of life in Burma and the effect their tourist visit has on daily Burmese life. Past ProjectsIn late September 1999, an awareness pamphlet was created with the cooperation of several Wildflower Land working members, HRDU (Human Rights Documentation Unit) and ABFSU-FAC (All Burma Federation of Student Unions - Foreign Affairs' Committee). This pamphlet gives an overview of life in Burma, including a brief chronology of important events, the current human rights situation, and a few suggestions on how to support the cause. The pamphlet was printed in English, German, and French; so far, it has been widely distributed and circulated in Thailand, India, Laos, Nepal, the United States, Germany, and Sweden. Several letter writing/petition campaigns have also been initiated with the aim of addressing important issues concerning Burmese people, as well as highlighting their plight to the international communities and relevant officials. The latest project concerned the status and safety of the Burmese exiles living in Thailand; various signatures from international persons were collected on the appeal letter and the associated e-mail campaign has gained momentum in raising awareness about this situation. Proposed Projects The Awareness Working Group has made contact with and plans to network with other groups - local and international - interested in the Burmese cause, for facilitation of further campaigns; such groups as the Free Burma Coalition from America, and Canadian Friends of Burma. Located in the border area, The Awareness Working Group has access to current, vital information from a network of sources that can be shared with others. Currently, the Awareness Working Group is developing a tourism concerns campaign. Posters and further pamphlets will be produced, then widely distributed. Also, there are plans to create and develop a website dedicated to promoting international awareness of Burma, its people, and their struggle. This form of media will be instrumental in giving Burmese citizens an international voice. Future ProjectsIn addition to further awareness campaigns through letter writing and the distribution of pamphlets, posters, postcards and other media, the Awareness Working Group aspires to operate as a gate-keeping organization on the Thai-Burma border. In this way, information can be freely exchanged between many groups. The Awareness Working Group also intends to network with local groups in writing, petitioning, and facilitating for newspapers, journalists and photographers; as well as aiding independent documentaries, and seeking other methods to encourage media attention on the Burmese plight. In order to more successfully carry out these tasks, the group plans to aid and work in coordination with underground student and political groups operating inside Burma. In cooperation, the group hopes to accurately document the present situation by obtaining relevant photos and information, especially regarding the cultural climate of the country. Aims: To promote international awareness of the current human rights and cultural situation of Burma, thereby encouraging solidarity between Burmese people and the world.
To provide the Burmese people an international voice though various media forms, the internet/website and improved cooperation with international bodies.
To raise international awareness of Burma and its people through letter, e-mail, and other campaigns; media devices including pamphlets, posters, and postcards; and international networking to encourage media attention on Burma.
To strengthen cooperation between local Burmese groups struggling for democracy and international persons and bodies desiring to help.