Myanmar in 2003: Frustration and despair?

Abstract

The diminished prospect for reconciliation between the government, the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC), and the main opposition party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), at the year's outset led to frustration and despair for the people of Myanmar (Burma) in 2003. Throughout the year, Myanmar was beset with political impasse and economic difficulties triggered by a violent clash between NLD members and government supporters, as well as by the government's third detention of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and U.S. economic sanctions. Myanmar's political future remains precarious; those anticipating democracy and prosperity were left feeling frustrated and desolate. © 2004 by The Regents of the University of California. All rights reserved.