May, 2008 - Volume 16 No.5
Why Independent Media Matters in Burma

Constitutional Conundrum
As Burmese wonder what to make of the coming constitutional referendum, KYAW ZWA MOE examines their hopes and concerns.

Framing the Future
Since independence, Burma has failed repeatedly to enshrine its political principles. DOMINIC FAULDER puts the regime’s current constitution into historical context.



A Natural Disaster in the Making
The Burmese junta’s disregard for the environment could have dire consequences for the country’s future, as WILLIAM BOOT reports.

A Monk’s Tale
One of the leaders of last September’s protests speaks with reporter WAI MOE about the Burmese regime’s treatment of dissident monks.

Almost Gone: The Tarong of Burma’s Far North
The Tarong are small in stature and few in number. WOLFGANG H. TROST traveled to their remote homeland to learn more about them.



Thai Premier’s ‘Flashback’ Visit to Burma
As Thai PM Samak Sundaravej moves to restore friendly and profitable ties with Burma, AUNG ZAW revisits 20 years of bilateral relations.



CULTURE
An Enduring Culture
The Mon were among the first people to settle in Thailand and Burma. Now, LAWI WENG writes, they are struggling to preserve their identity.


BOOK REVIEW
Laity of the Land
“Burma’s Mass Lay Meditation Movement: Buddhism and the Cultural Construction of Power,” by Ingrid Jordt is reviewed by NEIL LAWRENCE.


THE BACK PAGE
Thangyat: Traditional Songs Hard to Suppress
The junta doesn’t like them, but these satirical songs are still a festive favorite among Burmese New Year’s revelers.

Harn Lay: Art Exhibition in Chiang Mai
Irrawaddy cartoonist Harn Lay’s gifts as a painter are on full display in a joint exhibition at Chiang Mai’s Suvannabhumi Gallery.



Sai Htee Saing: More Than a Shan Songster
Although his fame waned in his later years, Sai Htee Saing’s musical influence is still almost ubiquitous in Burma, writes AMPORN JIRATTIKORN.



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