About Us

Network Myanmar was set up in the summer of 2007 to assist the process of reconciliation and rehabilitation in a country which has suffered so grievously ever since it gained its independence from Britain on 4 January 1948.

Our Aim and Objectives are set out in the attached Charter which stresses our commitment to dialogue and our concern for people to people contact and interaction. We believe that the Burmese people have suffered enough over the past 50 years and that campaigns to isolate and sanction the country hit primarily at an impoverished population and not only fail to achieve any change in the social, economic and political climate, but are in fact quite counterproductive.

Our logo is an immediate reflection our commitment to the Burmese people as it was designed through a competition organised privately with graphic arts students in Yangon (Rangoon). The winner was a Third Year Graphic arts student, and prizes were awarded to the winner, who is a lady, and to the two runners-up.

Since our launch, we have achieved a maximum desirable membership and have accordingly for the present decided not to accept any further "Members" as such. Those who wish to suport us may still become "Friends" of Network Myanmar or make a donation.

We have a Management Committee of five Members:

· Chairman - Derek Tonkin, independent commentator and former British Ambassador to Thailand, Vietnam and Laos

· Secretary - Marie Lall, Lecturer at the University of London

· Treasurer - Emily Pelter, marketing and communications project manager

· Member - Nicky Black, Research Consultant, corporate responsibility and humanitarian action

· Member - Jenny Walton Masters, long engagement in cultural and educational activities and exchanges with Myanmar

As Chairman, Derek Tonkin sees his role very much as a co-ordinator of contributions from Members, Friends and indeed anyone who might wish to make a supportive contribution compatible with our Charter. The Management Committee provide their services in their own time and at their own expense.

A copy of the Constitution of Network Myanmar is also attached for those to study who might wish to join us as "Friends".