Building on a long legacy of support for the aspirations of the Burmese people, the United States is providing assistance to deepen and accelerate Burma’s political, economic, and social transition; promote and strengthen respect for human rights; deliver the benefits of reform to the country’s people; and support the development of a stable society that reflects the diversity of all its people.
Increased U.S. assistance to Burma reflects the U.S. Government’s support for Burma’s political and economic transition. Since 2012, the United States has provided over $200 million in assistance to Burma.
U.S. assistance is targeted to five key goals: national reconciliation; democratic institutions, healthy communities, economic development, and regional cooperation.
Sustaining national unity through peaceful political rather than military means is essential to the long-term success of reform. By creating opportunities for greater participation, trust-building and tolerance, U.S. assistance seeks to build networks of cooperation and understanding among Burma’s diverse citizenry, strengthen processes for peace and national reconciliation, and combat hate speech.
U.S. assistance builds the capacity of democratic institutions and a politically engaged civil society, promotes human rights, and strengthens rule of law. In 2013, the United States provided technical and capacity support for more than 300 civil society organizations and 5,800 individuals to engage in Burma’s transition and political processes.
U.S. assistance improves the lives of millions across Burma. This includes programs aimed at reducing under-five child mortality and transmission of high burden infectious diseases; and improving water supplies for thousands of Burmese communities.
U.S. assistance also funds efforts to help internally displaced persons; and supportpeople at risk of contracting HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, overcome malnutrition; and aid communities still affected by landmines.
The United States believes that responsible investment will promote economic reform and inclusive economic development, to improve the welfare of the Burmese people. Partnering with the private sector, other governments, donors, and civil society, U.S. assistance aims to significantly reduce poverty in targeted areas over the next five years.
As chair of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, in 2014, Burma plays an important role in promoting regional peace and stability as well as economic and social development. The United States is accelerating Burma’s development and ASEAN connectivity through a number of programs in cooperation with private sector partners.
The United States is proud to work with Burma in realizing the full potential of Burma’s remarkable people.
