In the wake of the the cyclone Nargis, right, that hit Burma on 2 May this year and, within a matter of days, caused enormous damage and suffering to millions of BUrmese, the Norwegian Burma Committee (NBK) invites to a conference addressing the role, both actual and potential, of the international community in pushing Burma´s current regime in the diretion of democratic reforms. (20-JUNE-08)

Based on NBK´s own reminder release, issued today, this article has been edited and prepared for publication here by HRH F / Niels Jacob Harbitz. Photo of Burmese monks and ordinary people helping each other cutting down ande clearing away the many huge trees that fell over houses and roads: Democratic Voice of Burma.

When the cyclone Nargis hit Southwestern Burma on 2nd May, the Western world seemed surprised by the reluctant response by the military. At the same time, the military junta claims to have finalized four out of seven steps in the Roadmap to Democracy. The next step will be an election in 2010 for the legislative body Pyithu Hluttaw. What are the consequences of the new constitution and what kind of support might the international community offer to help facilitate transition to a democratic government? How might we best help the Burmese find spaces for broadening dialogue and constructive engagement?

Opening remarks:
By chairperson of the Norwegian Burma Committee, Harald Bøckman

The current situation in Burma:
Introduction by State secretary Raymond Johansen

Dialogue and reconciliation – it is possible?
Introduction by UN Representative, National Coalition Goverment of the Union of Burma, dr Thaung Htun

A saffron revolution in Burma? Buddhist backgrounds to a Burmese predicament
Introduction by editor of Anthropology Today, Royal Anthropological Institute, London, Gustaaf Houtman

After the opening remarks and three 20-minutes introductions, there will be time for a thorough discussion on the Norwegian (governmental and civil society) strategy forward. Please confirm your presence to info@burma.no or 22 47 92 37 before Friday 20th June.

The cpnference takes place at ´Litteraturhuset´ in Oslo, on 23rd June, from 11 to 14 hrs.

For further information, please contact:
Marte Graff Jenssen
Information director at the Norwegian Burma Committee
Tel: 22 47 92 37, fax: 22 47 92 01
www.burma.no