Dec 2, 2009 (DVB)-A group of experts on Burma will tonight debate the efficacy of controversial Western sanctions on the country, following renewed international engagement with the ruling junta.
Panelists will include Thant Myint-U (former head of policy planning in the UN’s Department of Political Affairs), Mark Farmaner (director of Burma Campaign UK), Derek Tonkin (former British ambassador to both Vietnam and Thailand, and current chairman of Network Myanmar) and Brad Adams (executive director of Human Rights Watch’s Asia Division).
The debate comes amid renewed scrutiny on the success of sanctions on Burma, with allegations that China’s economic support for Burma dimishes their impact.
Speculation over the future of both US and EU sanctions on Burma was triggered following Washington’s announcement in October that it would begin dialogue with Burma’s military rulers, following years of sanctions and isolation.
The debate will be streamed live on the internet from 18.45 GMT. To watch it, click here.
