Myanmar's NLD faces governance test

Subject

Grassroots politics in Myanmar.

Significance

The next parliament's first session opens on February 1, heralding the new National League for Democracy (NLD) government. The NLD's November 8, 2015 election victory is seen by the party and the international community as a watershed in Myanmar's political development. However, until legislators and voters become accustomed to the processes and practices of democratic government, policy-making could face a bumpy path.

Impacts

• Assuring quality democratic representation will require that political parties gain experience.
• The next government needs to increase popular awareness of the government's powers and duties.
• It will also need to consider voters' perceptions of democracy when formulating its policies.