Burmese community and civil society organizations provide a huge range of critical services in support of disadvantaged and marginalized people. These include the provision of health care and education, and action on women's empowerment, human rights, democratization and community development. The Burma Volunteer Program supports these organizations by placing skilled volunteers who provide an array of services including teaching, report writing, fundraising and organizational development.
Burma recently emerged from almost 50 years of military rule. During this period, institutions and infrastructure were shattered and Burma struggles with ongoing political, economic and social crises. An estimated 30-50% of the population lives in extreme poverty. Basic services such as health care and education are extremely limited or non-existent for the majority of people. Independent community-led organizations strive to provide basic services to the disadvantaged but have limited capacity.
This project will provide skilled volunteers to Burmese independent community-led organizations to build their capacity so that they can better serve Burmese populations. These organizations work across a range of key sectors including health, education, women's empowerment, democratization, human rights and community development. Through volunteers, these organizations gain access to skilled and committed individuals, at low or no cost, who can help them to bring positive change to Burma.
In light of the scope and scale of challenges that Burma faces as it emerges from military rule, the role of civil society, and independent community organizations, will be critical in forging a peaceful, socially just, and democratic future. The organizations receiving volunteers through this project are playing a central role in providing critical services to the people of Burma, leading grassroots development and democratization, and building the foundations for a flourishing society.
