1 Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION In this Chapter: A. B. C. D. Why an ICT Sector-Wide Impact Assessment (SWIA) in Myanmar Expectations for Responsible Business in Myanmar The Reference Framework for the SWIA SWIA Methodology A. Why an ICT Sector-Wide Impact Assessment (SWIA) in Myanmar Myanmar currently has one of the least developed ICT sectors in ASEAN. However, concerted efforts are underway to rollout an extensive telecommunications network to spur the development of the ICT sector and enable other industries dependent on modern communications to flourish. It is estimated that by 2030 the ICT sector could contribute $6.4 billion to Myanmar’s GDP and employ approximately 240,000 people. 17 With foreign investment in the telecommunications sector estimated to contribute over $2 billion of $8.1 billion in total FDI in 2014/2015, 18 Myanmar is finally bridging the ‘digital divide’. ICT is considered a high-risk sector for human rights. Certain impacts of the ICT industry on human rights have been well documented, for example, working conditions in hardware manufacturing. 19 However, other types of impacts, particularly on freedom of expression and privacy, have only come into focus more recently. Emerging from decades of ethnic conflict, authoritarian rule and a long period of economic sanctions, Myanmar is considered a high risk destination. As investments in the sector are increasing rapidly, all stakeholders – companies, Government, civil society and donors – need to understand the potential impacts of the sector if it is to improve the outcomes for Myanmar and all of its people. This Sector Wide Impact Assessment (SWIA) aims to aid that understanding. 20 The ICT sector is often described as a complex ‘ecosystem’. Its elements range from telecommunications service providers to large equipment manufacturers to small software 17 See, McKinsey Global Institute, “Myanmar’s Moment: Unique Opportunities, Major Challenges” (June 2013), pg 3. 18 Deal Street Asia, “Myanmar 2014-2015 FDI swells to $8.1b: govt agency” (April 2015). 19 Report of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on the issue of human rights and transnational corporations and other business enterprises (herein “SRSG”), “Addendum, Corporations and human rights: a survey of the scope and patterns of alleged corporate-related human rights abuse”, A/HRC/8/5/Add.2 23 (2008). 20 MCRB, IHRB and DIHR have already carried out two other SWIA on important areas of the Myanmar economy – oil and gas and tourism. 42 PAGE CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION