Myanmar has made important progress toward democratic reform since President Thein Sein's civilian government came to power in early 2011. Significant challenges, however, remain and could scuttle efforts at change. Key among these are the peace process between the government and armed ethnic groups in the border regions; communal tensions in Rakhine state bordering Bangladesh and in central Myanmar; and the free and fair conduct of the 2015 general elections, which could also impact the peace process and communal relations. This report explores the United States' interests in peace in Myanmar and offers recommendations for how Washington can best promote it.

Lynn Kuok was a visiting fellow with the Sumitro Chair for Southeast Asia Studies at CSIS.