Burma

The transition from military to civilian rule that started in 2011 has slowed down and reversed in some places. The landslide victory of the opposition National League for Democracy in the November elections may reenergize reforms in some areas. Despite a significantly improved environment for freedom of expression and media, in key areas the government’s commitment to improving the human rights situation has faltered or failed, with an increasing number of political prisoners. Discrimination and threats against the Muslim minority in Burma, a manifestation of growing ultra-nationalism, has intensified. The Rohingya Muslim minority continues to face statelessness and systematic persecution.