2 > Next Generation Myanmar FOREWORDS We are delighted to introduce the Next Generation report for Myanmar, which connects the voices of young people here to counterparts in countries who have conducted similar studies – Pakistan, South Africa, Tanzania, Turkey and Colombia to mention just a few. The British Council’s Next Generation series focuses on countries undergoing change, whether social, economic or political. It aims to understand youth attitudes and aspirations, amplify youth voices and in turn contribute to improved youth policy and programmes. Through studies such as this one, we help ensure that young people’s voices are heard on issues that affect their lives. Here in Myanmar we have seen, and continue to see, social, economic and political change. This study reveals a wide range of insights about the aspirations and attitudes of Myanmar’s youth. Next Generation Myanmar was conducted by the British Council and VSO in partnership with Conflict Management Consulting and the Center for Diversity and National Harmony, and with the support of the Ministry of Social Welfare. It was led by, designed by and shaped by a task force of young people from across Myanmar. In their own voices, young people articulate their aspirations and attitudes in this significant period of the country’s history. The report clearly highlights the optimism of young people in Myanmar and their hopes for economic wellbeing and peace. Youth also express their positivity about their goals and their chances of realising their ambitions. They are upbeat about opportunities for political and social engagement, tempered to a degree by concerns about employment prospects and around crime and drugs. Attitudes to social media are also enlightening, with many young people outlining concern about the impact of social media on their lives and their country. The study further helps us understand the views of Myanmar’s youth. It also helps policymakers and practitioners understand how best to support youth and the prospect for the demographic dividend in Myanmar. On the positive side, young people feel a sense of personal agency, albeit slightly tempered by parental oversight. They report the importance of a sense of purpose in life and their desire to contribute to the communities around them. Myanmar’s youth also articulate clear views on the challenges ahead. They express concern about racial, religious and other forms of discrimination and outline their anxieties about their own financial future and that of their families. The study highlights increased levels of political engagement among young people across Myanmar, a growing desire to influence change, and ideas for how to shape Myanmar‘s place in the world. The British Council and VSO are committed to working with the Ministry of Social Welfare and local and international partners to support the aspirations of young people, helping them take advantage of opportunities and make a positive contribution to their country and to the world. To quote one of our research participants, ‘youth are an untapped potential in Myanmar’. Combining this potential and the optimism expressed in this study, we are confident that Myanmar’s youth can play a positive role in the country’s future. Joyce Laker, Director VSO Myanmar Richard Sunderland, Director British Council Myanmar