Call for small research proposals – Myanmar’s current issues in the “digital space”

Introduction

The Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM)-Phase-II Initiative run program invites researchers in Myanmar and the diaspora to submit proposals for research projects on issues of importance to the many social, political and economic challenges facing Myanmar and its citizens. We are particularly interested in research making use of digital tools (online surveys, online focus groups, etc) as well as research at the intersection of digital technology and current policy affairs (see more on topics below). 

Objectives

This call for proposals is part of a two-year initiative to fund original and highly relevant social research projects on Myanmar issues, and to support young researchers to develop and continue their interest in research. This is the project’s second call for research proposals. The initiative is designed to support Myanmar’s research culture, which is at risk of being lost in the current political crisis. There is a strong need to support research for, by and amongst vulnerable groups, including LGBTQIA++, women, religious and ethnic minorities. Researchers submitting proposals may work individually or in teams. Younger and less experienced researchers are encouraged to apply, as research methodology training will be made available to successful candidates if needed. Of particular interest are research projects that will involve training and capacity support for young researchers from at-risk and vulnerable communities. Each funded research project will undergo a thorough risk assessment review, with digital safety training provided in advance of initiating research activities. 

Research topics to be funded

A research panel composed of experts from K4DM and leading academic institutes will select and fund up to six research proposals. The research topics may encompass the evolving digital landscape in Myanmar or cover a wide range of subjects, as long as they have direct or indirect impact on the digital sphere and address the current challenges and issues in Myanmar. 

Applicants should note that the research panel is particularly interested in topics that can directly support efforts to raise awareness on Myanmar’s socio-political issues, and/or lead to programmatic interventions such as educational outreach, mainstream media interviews, action frameworks, and so on. Although we aim for rigorous evidence-based research products, purely theoretical or strictly academic papers will not be supported.

Number and amount of grants

The precise number of research grants awarded will depend on the research proposals and the funding available. The goal is for six to eight research proposals to be approved at this time. 

Proposal requirements

Interested researchers should contact K4DM at the email below under “Submission Information” to receive a link to a research proposal template. Only proposals submitted using this template will be considered. Funding for each research proposal should not exceed CAD 10,000 (approx USD 7,600). Research proposals above CAD 10,000 will only be considered if there is a very strong need demonstrated for extensive fieldwork or other research costs. 

Submission Information

Interested researchers should email research@k4dm.ca to request a link to our research proposal template (a Google Form). The research panel will consider all submissions received based on their own merits, taking into consideration factors such as relevance, timeliness and link to social programs or policy initiatives. The deadline to submit a completed research proposal is 29 December 2023. Successful candidates will be contacted before 9 February 2024. 

Post-research communications

The research proposals should include a communications plan. The research panel intends for researchers and research teams to be available to discuss their research publicly. However, if anonymity is required, alternate dissemination plans will be considered. While travel to international conferences is not funded directly as part of this research activity, the funders will work with successful research applicants to promote Myanmar participation in international or regional policy and academic conferences. 

About Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM)

The Knowledge for Democracy Myanmar (K4DM) initiative nurtures a new generation of young actors to promote inclusion, gender equality, respect for diversity, and prosperity for all in Myanmar. K4DM is funded by IDRC and Global Affairs Canada, and works in collaboration with international partners. Making use of online courses, fellowships and research on digital spaces, the initiative supports diverse students and researchers primarily in the Myanmar diaspora and research institutions outside the country. www.k4dm.ca