Burma Redux

Contemporary Myanmar faces immense political challenges, and the role outsiders might play in dealing with them is highly contentious. Drawing on views expressed by local citizens, Burma Redux argues for committed strategies of grassroots involvement that engage international aid agencies, global corporations and foreign states. The wide-ranging discussion positions Myanmar’s history, contemporary politics and social circumstances within broader discussions of global justice, democratic transitions, the aid business, corporate social responsibility and international sanctions. The book serves several audiences: general readers and scholars interested in Southeast Asia, global justice and problems posed by pariah states; Burmese inside the country and in the diaspora; and policymakers, aid workers and advocacy groups.

Ian Holliday is professor of political science at The University of Hong Kong.

“In the Western mind, Burmese politics is characterized by a struggle between a rapacious military elite and a gentle, freedom-loving democrat. There is some truth to this view. But more is needed to understand the country and to help its people, and this excellent book—a rare combination of history, social science, and normative political theory—provides the rest.” —Daniel A. Bell, Tsinghua University

“As both the United States and the European Union have announced their intention to engage with the new administration in Myanmar, Ian Holliday’s timely and well-focused study provides important background and scholarly guidance justifying intervention on human rights grounds. The strategy proposed of grassroots engagement particularly utilizing neighboring states, international agencies and multinational corporations is well argued and persuasive. The author recognizes that practical difficulties will require determination and high-level persuasion, not least in regional diplomacy. This is an important contribution, from a refreshingly new perspective.” —Derek Tonkin, Network Myanmar

“In this considered and up-to-the-minute analysis, rooted in a firm foundation of political theory, Holliday, a political science professor at The University of Hong Kong, examines the current state of the country once known as Burma. . . . This astute book, best suited for political analysts or researchers, extends the hope that Myanmar might return to its once promising state.” —Publishers Weekly