ASSESSING DELIBERATIVE POLICY PRACTICES IN MYANMAR: POLICY PERSPECTIVES TOWARD EFFECTIVE AND LEGITIMATE DELIBERATION

Abstract

The research aims to evaluate deliberative policy practices within existing local governance systems, identifying gaps in promoting public participation spaces, and proposing policies to address these gaps for enhancing effective and legitimate deliberation. Myanmar's bureaucratic culture, characterized by a ‘Do nothing; be uncomplicated; and avoid trouble’ ethos, along with the influence of the Parachute Policy, significantly impact the country's policymaking environment. Public participation opportunities are more accessible at the local level compared to the state and union levels, yet local governments lack fiscal authority. Policy recommendations include fostering the Ideal Deliberative Policy Forum (IDPF) through a pilot project especially in areas controlled by ethnic armed resistance forces. This initiative, in collaboration with scholars and development agencies, will fill existing gaps and promote the quality of public participation, legitimacy, and effectiveness in local governance in Myanmar.