Phyu Nyein Ei. Empowering meaningful youth participation through embedding youth agendas into the policy processes of Myanmar. Master's Degree(Public Policy). Chiang Mai University. Library. : Chiang Mai University, 2568.
Empowering meaningful youth participation through embedding youth agendas into the policy processes of Myanmar
Abstract:
This study explores how meaningful youth participation can be empowered by embedding youth agendas into the policy processes of Myanmar, particularly in the wake of the 2021 military coup. Despite their historical and ongoing contributions to civic mobilisation, public service delivery, and resistance movements, Myanmars youth continue to face systemic exclusion from formal decision-making spaces due to military legacies, cultural norms, and institutional barriers. Using Sohail Inayatullahs Futures Triangle and the backcasting method, this research examines historical constraints, current mobilisation trends, and potential future pathways for youth inclusion in emerging local governance structures. The findings highlight how youth-led activism and civic engagementparticularly in conflict-affected regionsplay a vital role in building community resilience and shaping democratic local governance. However, their participation remains marginalised in formal policy processes. By analysing evolving governance mechanisms within opposition-controlled territories and ethnic regions, this study identifies opportunities to institutionalise youth agendas and recommends the creation of inclusive youth platforms, targeted capacity-building programmes, and formal guarantees for youth inclusion in local governance. This research contributes to the discourse on youth and governance in fragile contexts, emphasising the need to mainstream youth participation to ensure inclusive nation-building and long-term peace. Policy recommendations are tailored for use by local actors, transitional governance bodies, and international stakeholders engaged in supporting youth and democratic reforms in Myanmar.