Document(s) 2 of 9

Burma in the 1990s ranked among the most repressive and self-isolated countries in the world. But the occasional appearance of a few hopeful signs of possible transition prompted IDRC’s interest in the potential for development research.

For about five years in mid-decade, IDRC conducted detailed assessments of the chances for political transition in Burma. The assessment measured the probability of change, the capacity and independence of Burmese researchers, and the likelihood of good research influencing policy and action. It also took into account the Canadian government’s declared disapproval of Burma’s dictatorship.

In the end, IDRC decided against investing in programming for Burma. Yet the case illustrated the value of gathering careful intelligence for research decisions — and the difficulties of judging whether a transition is genuine or illusory

Document(s) 2 of 9