Empowering Refugees for Sustainability

Abstract

In this paper, I examine ways the illegitimate military regime in Burma systematically denies its people access to basic needs, and creates an environment in over a million of its people see their only option for survival in leaving the country. I argue against treating these people who must leave their homeland in ways which further their SUffering, and point out the importance of focusing on ways to encourage the increased agency and empowerment of environmental refugees so that they may one day return to their homeland when it attains democracy. Only when people have access to basic needs and human rights can they be in condition to promote positive change.