Ongoing Workshop Series at Inya

The ‘Myanmar’s Borderlands: Past, Present, and Future’ initiative is an 18-month project aimed at better understanding Myanmar’s borderlands and how they have historically shaped, continue to shape, and will contribute to shape Myanmar in the future. Here we introduce you to the workshop facilitator, Dr. Kimberly Roberts, our Summer 2023 Research and Mentoring Fellow, and, in the following pages, to the 23 junior researchers. After online morning sessions on research methodology held on June 26-30, the eight groups of junior researchers are currently working with Kimberly on refining their research topic and planning their research activities during the 10-month period of the project. The groups will present their findings at a conference in July 2024 in Bangkok.

Dr. Kimberly Roberts is a political ecologist with expertise in rural agrarian change and resource frontiers in the uplands of South and Southeast Asia. Roberts holds a Ph.D. in Human Geography, a M.Sc. in International Conservation and Development, and a B.Sc. in Environmental Studies. For the last 20 years Roberts has lived and worked in urban and rural spaces of mainland Southeast Asia and North America, collaborating with development practitioners, students, and researchers from across the South and Southeast Asian diaspora on the socio-political intersections of environmental degradation and community development. Spanning the physical and social sciences, Roberts has presented as geography, Asian studies, borderlands, feminist geography, agricultural, engineering, and history conferences and published in Asian studies, geography, and geopolitics journals. Below, Kimberly explains her approach to the workshop.

The uplands of Southeast Asia are undergoing rapid environmental change. In research, teaching, and mentoring, I work across differences of identity and experiences to collaboratively explore nature and society debates regarding environmental degradation, conflict, and rural agrarian change in the borderlands of Myanmar. For my dissertation I drew on scholarship from political geography, political ecology, and resource conservation to investigate the uneven power relationships between states/non-state territories, social movements, and resource frontiers in conflict zones in the borderlands of Thailand and Myanmar. Through interactive classroom activities and assignments, I bring insights into the classroom, in ways that students can experience and connect to individual, community, regional, national, and transnational levels of practice. For example, as part of an intensive social empowerment leadership and advocacy training program, I used theater forum to teach research methods to youth from Shan, Kayah, Mon, and Karen states in Myanmar. Additionally, in a ten-week study abroad program I co-directed through the University of Washington, I combined seminars with 26 site visits/ guest speakers to allow students to learn directly from ethnic minority community members and organizations about environmental, political, and socioeconomic contributions to human rights violations along the Thailand-Myanmar border.

Questions about environmental degradation and society led me to the borderlands of Thailand and Myanmar 16 years ago. For two years, I lived 17 km from the Myanmar border at a small farm agroforestry research center. There, I worked alongside Lahu, Dara’ang, Karen, Kachin and Akha colleagues in undocumented migrant communities. My ongoing and future research will continue to advance this work exploring questions of resilience, resistance, equity and justice in environmental issues across Myanmar borderland communities, a topic expanded on in a special collection ‘Remaking Resource Frontiers in Myanmar’ published in Geopolitics that I co-edited. As a result of the coup in Myanmar, however, many of the local leaders and organizations are now in exile. As such, I will look at the impact of the coup on environmental and human rights through a project that asks about the political ecologies of conflict resolution in exile from Myanmar’s borderlands.To conclude, through collaborative transnational partnerships that emphasize ethical and safe research methods, I contribute to debates in, and questions surrounding, rural agrarian change and conflict in the face of climate change within the fields of geography, political ecology, and environmental studies from the borderlands of Myanmar.

I am Abdu Rahman from Maungdaw, northern Rakhine State. I am a humanitarian and field researcher. I completed my high school in 2015. Furthermore, I attended TOEFL prepation course at Thabyay E-learning Platform and many other online courses on research methodology and journalism. I have been advocating for Rohingya education since 2018, and working as a field researcher and transcriber in IOM since 2019.

My name is Muhammed Shahid I am a community teacher and I have been working for IOM-CwC as a researcher and transcriber since 2019. I am originally from Maungdaw, northern Rakhine State. I graduated from Sittwe University with B.Sc (Hons) Physics in 2012.

I am Sawna Ullah from Maungdaw, Rakhine State. I completed my high school from Alay Than Kyaw High School in 2016. I attended English

I am Naw Seng, a junior researcher from Myitkyina, Kachin State. I have a strong background in community development and I am passionate about education and community empowerment. I started a degree in Chemistry at Myitkyina University in 2018 and have been actively involved in the Catholic Student Action Myitkyina (CSAM) as a student coordinator since 2019. I have gained valuable teaching experience as a guide teacher in church boarding houses from 2018 to 2020 and recently I furthered my education in community development through a research diploma program at Thabyay Education Foundation. During my studies there as a research fellow, I wrote a research paper related to environmental themes. Currently working as an assistant researcher at the National University of the Union of Myanmar (NUUM) on a theme related to education, I am also working as a manager in the Student Learning Resources Center (SLRC).

My name is Khaing Yamin Lwin . I obtained a B.A. in International Relations at Dagon University. In summer 2022, I was a student researcher at the Center for Research, Policy and Innovation in the U.S. I am passionate about politics and law but also about research that can contribute to policymaking and promotion of human rights. I am pursuing some continuing literature course and computer courses in Chittagong, Bangladesh. I have been working for various projects as animator, peace builder, training of trainer, peace education trainer, researcher and facilitator.

We are very excited about this innovative Summer 2023 Research and Mentoring Workshop Series. We join the workshop from the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar and focus on humanitarian relief to refugees and public health in borderlands for our project. We hope to contribute findings that will support the health and safety of the people who have been displaced by violence and persecution.

The UN agencies and other national and international organisations are providing basic necessities to Rohingya refugees. Yet, there are huge gaps in the provision of humanitarian relief because service providers typically don’t consult with beneficiaries before implementing new assistance programs.

In addition, public health measures must be implemented in order to prevent the spread of diseases among refugees and local populations in the borderlands. This may involve providing access to primary health care services, providing immunization, and establishing sanitation and hygiene facilities. Healthcare is the major issue for Rohingya refugees who reside in the borderlands and usually lack proper medication and treatment although there are many humanitarian health facilities in the camps.

Overall, humanitarian relief and public health measures are necessary in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the people affected by the violence and persecution in the borderlands.

I am Ngun Cer Hlei Iang, an aspiring educator and junior researcher from Hakha, Chin State. Despite the challenges people have faced since the 2021 coup, I have been pursuing an International Relations degree at Monywa University. I strongly believe in the importance of continuous research for gaining a better understanding of current affairs. My past research experience includes an investigation into the education freedom in 2018 as a research fellow and a study on mothertongue based education in 2021 with colleagues from Chin bridge Institute. Through research fellow programs, I have gained valuable experience in fieldwork, data collection, process improvement, coordination, and documentation handling. My internships at the Chin Human Rights Organization and position as a subject teacher have allowed me to engage

Khaing Yamin Lwin

Hnin Eaindra Lwin Eaindray Nyein Chan Pyae

learning about constitutional law at the Constitutional Federalism Institute.

I am Hnin Eaindra Lwin and I completed my BArch from West Yangon Technological University. I have been working at a graduate architect posi - in statistical and financial data analysis related to freedom of religion. Driven by a lifelong dream, my ultimate goal is to become an educator and researcher so as to help students maximise their educational experience. tion for over three years mainly focusing on the restoration and conservation of historic buildings. I am eager to learn new things and interested in taking part in projects that promote sustainability and development.

Our research topic is about language barriers in the education systems of Myanmar’s borderlands with a focus on enhancing access and quality in the multilingual communities of Kachin and Chin States. Language plays a crucial role in education: access to quality education may be difficult if students are not proficient in the language of instruction. We propose to identify challenges faced by students and effective strategies in order to mitigate the problems linked to language barriers and ensure equitable educational opportunities for all. We hope to contribute to the creation of an inclusive and equitable educational environment that support the diverse linguistic needs of students.

I am Eaindray Nyein Chan Pyae . I obtained my B.A. from Dagon University specializing in Law. I worked as a training and outreach intern at a social enterprise. I am passionate about community development works, ethnic affairs, constitution, migrant workers in developing countries, and the complex legacy of authoritarianism. I am now pursuing a political science, governance, and public administration course for further professional development.

We will work on labour migration and human trafficking, two major issues hindering the development of Myanmar and undermining regional security . Myanmar is currently suffering problems from brain drain,

I am Moris Zin Htet Aung. I hold a Bachelor degree, majoring in Computer Technology from the University of Computer Studies (Loikaw) in 2012. I gained some work experience at a government department and a youth organization before the coup in 2021. After the coup, I stepped down from these responsibilites. On May 21, 2021, armed clashes broke out in my hometown, Deemawso. Soon after, I volunteered in IDP camps. In 2022, I illegally moved to Thailand for security reasons. As an illegal migrant, I would like to participate in some research on cross-border migration from Myanmar to Thailand. I feel lucky to join Inya Institute and be part of the workshop series.

My name is Nan Myinzu Minn. I have a B.A. in English Literature from Mandalay’s University of Distance Education and a Master of Public Admin- exploitation and human trafficking and the majority of young people from Myanmar are forced to work and deal with unjust working conditions and trafficking abroad, not only as citizens of a developing nation but also as undocumented migrants who lack legal protection from their home country. Along Myanmar’s borders, legal and illegal migrants face huge problems caused by armed conflicts and a lack of humanitarian aid from neighboring countries and the international community. We hope our research will

My name is David Naung Ding. I am a freelance data analyst at Defection Program and a former news and information officer of the current civilian administration. I graduated in 2017 from the Myanmar Aerospace Engineering University (MAEU) and worked as a sales engineer until the coup. I enjoy participating in networking, communication and capacity building workshops, seminars, and outdoor activities. My volunteering experience include the support to a religion and rule of law training hosted by a faithbased organization, Institute of Global Engagement (IGE), and my activities as executive member of MAEU Student’s Union (2013-2016).

I am Su Paul Lu. I am currently volunteering at a prominent Kachin organization. I worked as a project officer and trainer in Rakhine State for two years and delivered there peace building and media literacy training for hundreds of youths.

Moris Zin Htet Aung Nan Myinzu Minn

istration (Management) from Flinders University, Australia. I worked as an election officer from 2016 to 2020. I then stepped down from any official responsibilities after the coup. I had to leave the country to escape from being arrested by SAC. My research interests include migration, election and public policy.

I am Moe Yeh Phaw from Deemawso, Karenni (Kayah) State. I obtained a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Taungyi Medicine University but while I was in my third year in 2021, I dropped out. After armed fights broke out in Deemawso, I had to live in an IDP camp in Taungyi. There, I work as a volunteer teacher for IDP children at Self-supporting Fabre School, Taunggyi.

David Naung Ding Su Paul Lu

Jakan Naw Awng

Before that, I worked and volunteered at organizations that are working on Myanmar’s peace process and other development fields. I majored in Social Studies and graduated from the Liberal Arts Program, Myanmar Institute of Theology in 2017. I currently live on the ChinaMyanmar border where I work and observe the social and political changes happening within the Kachin Region and at the country’s level.

I am Jakan Naw Awng. I am a researcher and political analyst based in Kachin State. I earned my Masters’ degree in Chinese Politics, Foreign Policy, and International Relations at Tsinghua University. My research interests cover China-Myanmar relations and ethnic armed conflicts. I worked as a field contribute to a better identification and understanding of the problems legal and illegal migrants face and lead to possible solutions that support migrant workers and, more generally, the country.

I teach Mathematics and Chemistry to Grade 10 students.

Our research topic is about the challenges of cross-border migration from Myanmar to Thailand following the 2021 coup. Myanmar’s overall situation has been deteriorating in every aspect including political, economic, security, social and education. The forceful and voluntary migration causes challenges for both the migrants and the host communities. We will seek to answer the following question: “What are the challenges both legal and illegal migrants face when leaving Myanmar for Thailand after the 2021 coup?” We will consider both legal and illegal migration routes leading to the host country. The results of the research will provide a better understanding of the cross-border migration and the consequences both legal and illegal migrants face in this context.

researcher at the Kachinland Research Centre for one and a half years. Prior to this research experience, I was an English teacher enthusiastic about community development and social change. Currently, I am volunteering at a local think tank group that acts as an advisor to various Kachin political stakeholders.

Our research will seek to answer the following question: “How does the military coup affect the existing governance mechanisms of KIO/KIAcontrolled areas at the China-Myanmar Border?” We will explore and investigate the changes and progress within KIO’s governance system, the positive and negative externalities of the collaboration between KIO and other national political stakeholders, the arrival of CDMers, the social changes that affect its governance mechanisms, and the relocation of human and intellectual resources after the military coup.

My name is Myo Myint Myat Thein I live in Yangon and work as a youth development instructor, specializing in enhancing consecutive learning. I am passionate about reading and researchbased learning. I consider that human rights and justice are not only dear values to me but also to each of our team members.

I am Sithu Aung, a former law student whose education was disrupted by the coup. I am passionate about human rights. With a Diploma in Human Rights from Spring University Myanmar, I seek to explore the workings of international organizations and enhance the enforcement of human rights globally. Additionally, I am interested in the connections between human rights and the environment.

I am Ahmmed Sukanu from Nga Sar Kyu Village, Maungdaw. I was not able to complete my graduate studies in Myanmar after the persecution of 2017. Therefore, I have completed a journalism workshop through PROI. I am a researcher, photographer, and poet. I have worked for NGOs agencies and did research for various universities and now I am facilitator at BRAC University’s Center for Peace and Justice (CPJ).

My name is Md Ahtaram. I was born in 1996 in Rakhine State. Due to the military policy of ethnic cleansing, I fled in Bangladesh as a refugee in 2017. I was unable to complete my graduation. However, in 2022, I studied political science through an online undergradu-

I am Zai Sam, a young social activist from Manhkring Internally Displaced People (IDP) camp, Myitkyina city, Kachin state. There I focus on reducing violence within the community and promoting and delivering educational opportunities to underserved young people. I have a strong interest in conducting research on environmental issues as well as on the challenges indigenous and marginalised people face in securing healthcare and education. I recently worked as a research assistant at the Centre for Research, Policy and Innovation, Burmese American Community Institute (BACI). I am also an alumnus of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Academic fellowship program on Civic Engagement at Arizona State University (Spring 2022).

My name is Htawshe Dau Hkawng. I live in Kachin state. I graduated from the

My name is Myat Thiri. I am the youngest member in this group and live in Yangon. I studied one year at the Co-Operative University in 2019. Now, I study via online and do self-learning. I am especially interested in community development and research. I am also working as a volunteer in my community library and also pursue online research training.

Our project will focus on legal status and impediments to aid for Myanmar refugees in Mizoram. Despite supports from local communities and state government, refugees in Mizoram deal with irregular food supplies, limited job opportunities, and lack of legal status and support from international organizations. Legal protection for refugees is crucial. India lacks a legislation addressing their status even though Mizoram government gives them temporary ID cards. Refugees are treated as illegal immigrants, which hinders access to safety, education, employment, and basic needs. Advocacy for asylum and the development of appropriate policies and international refugee programs are vital. Ensuring legal status and continuous aid for Myanmar refugees in Mizoram is crucial for upholding their dignity and protecting their basic rights. By establishing a secure legal framework and providing sustained support, refugees can make informed decisions about their future, including potential resettlement or seeking asylum in other countries. ate program at Yangon Cosmopolitan University. I also completed a Diploma in Critical Thinking and Analysis Skills at CPJ. I now work as a community-based researcher, social worker and freelance journalist.

NGOs and agencies as a researcher.

I am Mohammed Mirza Nu, a researcher and teacher with over 6 years of experience in the field. I completed my matriculation in 2016; unfortunately I was not allowed to go to university. In Bangladesh, I joined courses such as sociology, critical thinking, and peace building and I have worked with various

Our research focuses on the crossborder trade and relationship between Rakhine and Bangladesh as well as the historical impact of militarization on the Rohingya population. We aim to explore Rohingya’s historical perspectives as well as commonly acknowledged claims that Rohingyas are, falsely, portrayed as Bengali. Our particular interest lies in the relationship between the Rohingya Muslim minority and the policy ramifications of the Myanmar government. Understanding the complex history of cross-border trade and relationships between the Rohingya and Bangladeshi communities is integral to our research.

Kachin Theological Seminary and I am in the process of obtaining a Master of Divinity Degree from the Myanmar Institute of Theology. I am currently working as a facilitator at a local feminist organization and as an in-charge oficer at the Community Learning Center in Waimaw which provides free, critical education program to children and young people in Kachin state. My research interests include religion and society, ethnic affairs, issues related to marginalized communities, identity, cultural studies and social justice.

I am Zaw Sar Zu, an energetic youth and social studies student currrently at the Liberal Arts Program, Myanmar Institute of Theology. For my major, I stud- ied social suffering of industrial workers. Moreover, I am pursuing educational studies at the Naushawng Community school. I am a keen observer of my community when it comes to environmental and social issues. I also work as a teacher at a community learning center. My larger goal is to address access to education in relation to socioeconomic conditions, social suffering and promote justice and education in the Kachin borderlands.

Our research topic addresses the lack of access to education in northern Myanmar borderlands (Kachin State and China) due to geography and current socio-economic situation. Our team will investigate and conduct research on the Kachin State-China borderlands and will focus on young people’s and youths’ access to quality education as well as hinderances to this access.