For weeks now, I have been casting around for some sign of positive change in Burma. There were some hints of promise perhaps – as talks began between the government, the NLD and the UN – but nothing really convincing. However, it seems that the UN human rights envoy, Paulo Sergio Pinheiro, has now returned to Burma (Myanmar) for the first time since 2003. Could this be the first move towards greater openness?
Monday, November 12, 2007
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This is certainly more hopeful than much recent news from Burma. Pinheiro seems like the right man for the job. It's a year since the Old Vic production of "The Lady of Burma" which publicised the plight (and power) of the interned Suu Kyi - who now appears to be willing to begin a dialogue with the generals.
Sanctions too often hurt the wrong people, but international awareness and pressure - tho' slow - can bring about change.
The irrepressible Demond Tutu said this about Suu Kyi:
"Men, armed to the teeth, are running scared of her. When those men are no more than the flotsam and jetsam of history her name will be emblazoned in letters of gold. She has already won, and they know they have lost. I love her, and I am in awe of her."
I hope he's right.
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