ABSTRACT
The chapter chronologically traces the role and relevance of women in Burma by not only examining the socio-economic and political challenges faced by them before and after independence, but also the inherent paradoxes and ambivalences in society towards them. The status of women during ancient times, the visibility and participation enjoyed by them during the British colonial period, and the fear and repression faced by them during the military regime have been brought out in the chapter. Various challenges faced by women like violence, trafficking, migration, displacement and livelihood concerns have been discussed to showcase the issues faced by women today along with the interventions attempted, which have not been easy, considering the years of marginalization, inequality and alienation. The attempt of the chapter is to initiate interest and concern for the prevailing conditions of women in Burma, which ultimately is the first step towards creating a more empowering environment for them in the future.
