Burma/Myanmar: a Country in Crisis

Although Burma/Myanmar has long been overlooked as a dedicated subject of study, the country’s complex history and dynamic cultures merit an interdisciplinary approach. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the history, ecology, culture, and contemporary politics of Burma. The first part of the course introduces the ecological, religious and cultural foundations of the country, followed by its colonial and post-colonial history. The second part examines a range of contemporary issues such as military rule, conflict and ethnic insurgency, refugees and human rights, gender and sexuality, the drugs trade, popular culture, and debates around international pressure for change.