In the midst of numerous crises, Myanmar faces a series of significant and complex challenges. According to the World Wildlife Fund, some regions of Myanmar have seen a reduction of up to 30 days in the monsoon season, which serves as the primary source of rainfall for agriculture, upon which around 70 percent of the population depends. Upland areas are also at risk of experiencing substantial increases in average temperatures, which could have devastating effects on crop yields.

Additionally, unregulated exploitation of natural resources, such as mining activities, is worsening the vulnerability of Myanmar’s landscapes to pollution and erosion. Myanmar is one of the nations most vulnerable to rising sea levels, particularly in the low-lying farmlands of the Ayeyarwady delta, which are at risk of inundation and salinization. Neighboring Bangladesh faces similar threats. Are communities well-prepared to deal with the consequences of climate change? Are the armed groups? What steps can be taken to better prepare Myanmar?

This panel discussion will explore these vital issues, drawing insights from recent publications by the RCSD and featuring commentary from various stakeholders in Myanmar and the wider region actively engaged in addressing the urgent climate change crisis.

This panel discussion forms part of the opening of The Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM) initiative’s KNOWLEDGE MARKETPLACE – Chiang Mai 2023: Exchanging Ideas for a Democratic Myanmar. which will be held on Friday, December 1st – Sunday, December 3rd, 2023, at Ang Kaew Villa, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai.

K4DM Knowledge Marketplace 2023 opening event
Friday 1st December (Chang Mai)
4:00pm – 6:30pm
Venue: Ang Kaew Villa, Chiang Mai University [Room 1 & Networking Area]

This is open to the public.