Danida in Myanmar

Myanmar is one of 14 priority countries for Denmark’s development cooperation

For decades Denmark supported the democratic forces in Myanmar and provided humanitarian assistance to the many refugees and internally displaced people in the border areas. By making Myanmar a priority country for Danish development cooperation and opening an Embassy on 1 August 2014, Denmark confirmed its support to the now halted democratic transition process. At the same time, Denmark has been continuing its humanitarian support in conflict areas as needed.

Denmark’s cooperation in Myanmar
Denmark has had an active policy towards Myanmar based in the late 1990’s on primarily humanitarian aid for refugees and support for the exile community within the limits of EU sanctions that were suspended in 2012 and lifted in 2013 except for the continued arms embargo. Furthermore, from 1977 to 1982 Denmark provided a number of state loans to Myanmar amounting to some USD 140 million to support the fisheries sector. In 2013, the Danish government decided to give a complete debt relief as part of a larger debt write-off through the Paris Club, which helped clear the way for renewed multilateral engagement in Myanmar for both the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank.

Since 2006, Denmark has provided around USD 100 million in development assistance and humanitarian support in Myanmar and to refugees in neighbouring countries. This support focused on democratization, good governance and human rights, health, education and livelihoods. In all areas, Denmark’s engagement has focused on creating the foundations for sustainable and equitable growth while promoting human rights, including for marginalized groups and women, and on empowering the population to create changes for themselves.

Substantial humanitarian assistance has for years been provided to refugees and internally displaced people in the border area between Myanmar and Thailand. Following the escalation of conflicts in both Rakhine and Kachin states in the past years, more humanitarian resources have been directed to these areas through support to both international NGOs and UN agencies. Denmark expects to continue providing humanitarian assistance in the foreseeable future, with a particular focus on protection and sustainable solutions.

Read more about Denmark's support to Myanmar’s development here.