Throughout this guide book, there has been talk of values, especially of non-discrimination. It is important to learn to understand what “non-discrimination” really means, and to identify situations where people do discriminate, in order to learn not to discriminate and not to accept discriminating behaviour.

Another important value is diversity. Myanmar is a very diverse country in terms of ethnicity – there are over 130 different ethnic groups –, religion, and traditions. Traditions can vary even within the same ethnic group. We need to see the beauty of diversity and learn to see it as a strength. Instead of mistrusting people who belong to different groups from us, we have to learn to trust them. As a politician, you know that people tend not to trust politicians. Instead, especially when the general elections are approaching, politicians get blamed. We need a change of thinking: instead of seeing diversity as a threat, we must learn to understand its value. A politician can act as a role model in building this trust.

As Myanmar is so large and diverse, we need harmony. Harmony is a key element of development, and it is needed to gain gender equality.

Unfortunately, Myanmar is also a very fragile state (22^nd out of 178 nations[i]). Conflicts have been occurring for years among different armed groups (between ethnic armed groups, the military, and also communal conflicts). This is a heavy burden for a developing nation, but ending these crises is an aim, which every politician in Myanmar must keep in mind, even if the conflicts take place in a far corner of the country. A politician in Myanmar needs to learn the right approach – a sensitive approach – to conflicts.

Diplomacy is another essential asset for a politician in a country like Myanmar. It was talked about in Part I, Session B, Chapter 2. In chapter 9 there will be talk of values, which are essential for any democratic system, such as rule of law and good governance.