In light of important political transformations happening in Burma it’s crucial that youth are politically aware, explained an ethnic academic that was part of a recent workshop for young people on federalism and peace.
Moses C. Tehlo, research director of Centre for Development and Ethnic Studies (CDES), said that it’s important to feed the minds of the next generation because “today’s youths may become leaders tomorrow”.
“I want youth to have a full understanding of what is federalism and peace when the federal union will be built. Federalism and peace are related. Peace cannot be obtained without the establishment of a federal union.”
The workshop held in cooperation with Shan State/Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA) was in Shan State capital Taunggyi.
Discussions included the distribution of power for building a federal union; the importance of Amyotha Hluttaw (parliament); political dialogue; and whether a constitution is needed or not for a federal union in Burma.
Other topics included the nationwide ceasefire agreement and increasing women’s participation in the upcoming 21st Century Panglong Conference (also Union Peace Conference).
RCSS/SSA’s Information Officer (Taunggyi office) Captain Sai Kyaw explained that the workshop was held to raise awareness about the importance of federalism for the ethnic groups and country.
“We couldn’t talk about federalism during U Ne Win’s regime because it was considered (by doing so) we wanted to separate from the country. Now, we can talk about federalism. That’s why I want youths to know about it.”
About 50 young people from eastern, northern, and southern Shan State joined the workshop.
Reporting by S.H.A.N.
Translated by Thida Linn
