Conflicts in South Asia: Identity, Resources, Governance in Myanmar

About this course

The course traces Myanmar’s development from the precolonial period to the present, focusing on land and resource disputes, environmental change, displacement, ethnic tensions and the effects of violence on marginalised communities. It considers the roles of state institutions, ethnic militias, civil society and local activism, alongside responses such as reform, dialogue and conflict resolution. Teaching combines slides, lectures and classroom discussions or debates. Comparative perspectives from neighbouring countries and material on Myanmar’s heritage, art and regional traditions are also included.

What you'll learn

• Explain key causes and consequences of conflict in Myanmar
• Distinguish between the country’s precolonial, colonial and postcolonial periods
• Analyse relationships between identity, ethnicity, resources, power, violence and politics
• Examine institutional and non-institutional mechanisms affecting Myanmar’s rural areas and borderlands
• Assess social, political and economic change in contemporary Myanmar
• Evaluate approaches to conflict resolution and dialogue

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for newcomers as well as learners with some existing background knowledge. It involves discussion and debate on sensitive subjects, so participants are expected to engage respectfully and remain open to learning from others. A good grasp of English is needed to follow the course.

• Suitable for learners new to the subject or those with some prior background
• Includes group and class discussion on sensitive political and social issues
• Requires a good grasp of English

Before you go

• A pen and paper or digital equivalent may be used for note-taking.
• A reading list will be provided.
• A museum or gallery visit is encouraged as part of exploring Myanmar’s cultural heritage.