GPIS Thesis Defense 5/20
<p align="center"> <strong>The Graduate Programs in </strong></p> <p align="center"> <strong>International Studies </strong></p> <p align="center"> <strong><em>Thesis Defense</em></strong></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> <strong>Myanmar and Its Democratic Transition</strong></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> Ja Tum Seng</p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"> </p> <p> With the third wave of democratization, there are now well over 100 democracies in the world today. Many of these newer democracies are not fully consolidated and remain fragile. Due to the complexity of the combination and the intensity of domestic and international factors, the transition can be smooth or interrupted; short or occurring over a lengthy period; and peaceful or violent. Whatever causes countries to democratize, the result of the transition seems to be more promising if political elites, economic elites or both agree and are committed to the genuine transformation to democracy. This study examines how the commitment of elites to democracy shapes transitions. Using Myanmar as a case study, the thesis examines how the military leadership has influenced democratization. Although the military has supported civilian rule, genuine commitment to democracy still seems to be lacking. The main reasons for this failure may be: (1) the military transformed itself into another political institution that is widely accepted by the international community but lacks a genuine commitment to democracy; and (2) the absence of a liberal commercial class that favors democracy, is able to compete and challenge the military leadership, and instead provides the resources for the survival of the military leadership. The thesis concludes that economic actors who challenge the military regime, and strong civilian institutions that both control the military and facilitate compromises among elites, are the keys to the successful transformation from a military regime to democracy.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> <strong><em>Batten Arts and Letters Building</em></strong></p> <p> <strong><em>Room 7031</em></strong></p> <p> <strong><em>May 20, 2014</em></strong></p> <p> <strong><em>1:30 pm</em></strong></p>
Ja Tum Seng Flyer.docx (15.1 KB)
Posted By: Margo Stambleck
Date: Fri May 16 15:41:13 EDT 2014