EXPERTS ADVISORY

Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the new democratically elected Myanmar government starts her visit to the U.S. today. Experts at the University of Michigan can discuss the visit and possible outcomes.

John Ciorciari is an associate professor at the Ford School of Public Policy. His research focuses on Southeast Asia and examines foreign policy strategies, human rights and the reform of international economic institutions.

“Aung San Suu Kyi’s visit represents a culmination of sorts for the Obama administration’s engagement with Myanmar,” he said. “It also represents the opening of a new and different relationship. She is no longer coming as an unassailable icon but rather as the head of a deeply troubled state. Suu Kyi the icon could engage largely by expressing shared ideals and a common vision for the country. Suu Kyi the politician has to engage in calculations of domestic politics and national interest that sometimes cause friction with Washington.

“This visit will feature deliverables to show progress in the relationship, probably including additional aid programs and further sanctions relief. The public diplomacy surrounding the summit will emphasize the positives. But U.S. officials will also try to manage expectations about the relationship and note a number of areas of concern. It will be apparent that in her new role, Suu Kyi no longer exercises the degree of control over U.S. policy toward Myanmar than she did in the past.”
Contact: 734-615-6947, johncior@umich.edu

Linda Lim, professor of strategy at the Ross School of Business, is an expert on political economy of local and multinational business in Southeast Asia.

Contact: 734-763-0290, lylim@umich.edu