INTRODUCTION

Burma: Country in Crisis was prepared by the Open Society Institute's Burma Project to provide background information on current events in Burma. Resource and contact lists suggest where to obtain more extensive and detailed information.

The publication is designed as an educational and information resource. Permission to link to, copy, or print and distribute material included in this publication is freely given.

The core of Burma: Country in Crisis is twelve "Burma Backgrounders." Each provides a synopsis of an important issue facing Burma today and ends with a short list of resources for further information. The separate backgrounders stand alone, but together tell the story that is outlined in the "Executive Summary." "Frequently Asked Questions" answers some of the most common queries about Burma and international policies toward the country. The booklet also includes a number of charts, tables, and other graphics depicting the political, economic, and social situation in Burma today.

We hope this publication will not only educate a broader public about events in Burma, but will also encourage many more people to join the international debate over what policies may best promote peace, prosperity, and respect for human rights in that country. Links to websites, and email, fax, phone and postal contacts for various organizations engaged in research, development, and advocacy regarding Burma are provided.

This online version will be regularly updated.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:

Special appreciation is extended to the Most Reverend Desmond M. Tutu, for contributing a foreword that reflects his deep and enduring commitment to the pursuit of peace and justice in Burma and around the world. Thanks also to experts and specialists who reviewed sections and offered constructive comments. Any inaccuracies, however, remain the sole responsibility of the author, Thomas R. Lansner, consultant to the Burma Project. Valuable editorial and research assistance was provided by Colleen Craig of the Burma Project. Graphics and design were prepared by Zeke Volkert of the Open Society Institute's Communications Department. Updates for this revised version were researched by Shan Jayakumar and Sonam Wangmo Dukpa.

Comments are welcomed and may be directed to: burma@sorosny.org