Analyzing the national land use policy in Myanmar: policy instruments, policy implementation, and comparative study

Abstract

Myanmar's National Land Use Policy (NLUP) reflects the country's commitment to addressing crucial land management issues within its evolving socio-political context. Rapid development since the 2012 elections and the 2015 ASEAN integration exposed fragmented and outdated land governance frameworks. These gaps have raised concerns about extensive land acquisitions that could harm smallholders and community rights.In response, the Myanmar government developed the NLUP to modernize land governance and enhance land tenure security for small-scale farmers, women, ethnic minorities, and other marginalized groups. This study explores the NLUP's development, implementation, and effectiveness of its policy instruments and legal frameworks. Through a comparative analysis of land use policies in Thailand and Laos, the research identifies best practices and successful policy instruments to inform improvements in Myanmar's land governance. The findings highlight progress in land tenure security and stakeholder engagement while identifying areas needing better coordination, legal framework updates, and comprehensive community involvement. Recommendations emphasize political stability, inter-governmental coordination, and integrating sustainable land management practices.