Human Rights Education Institute of Burma

Letter from the Executive Director

Another year has passed at the Human Rights Education Institute of Burma, bringing with it more changes than ever before. 2011 has seen a surge of reforms taking place inside Burma—the release of political prisoners, the election of National League for Democracy members to parliament, and the establishment of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, among others. After decades spent under authoritarian rule, the people of Burma have begun to glimpse the light at the end of a long and dark tunnel. These recent developments are as important in raising hope as they are in affecting international policy.

Letter from the Executive Director

As I look back on the last ten years I am filled with many emotions. But what stands out most is a sense of encouragement. I am encouraged by all of those who continue to fight for freedom and human rights in Burma—by their determination to stand up for dignity.

Letter from HREIB’s Executive Director

I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the history of the Human Rights Education Institute of Burma. Just nine years ago we started with two staff, committed to raising awareness about human rights in refugee camps along the Thai – Burma border. We now have over 50 staff working inside Burma and along Burma’s borders in Thailand, India, and China. We have developed resources for human rights educators in over seven languages and have trained thousands of activists to stand up to abuse.