Defection, One Soldier at a Time
Better Burma's objective is to aid a group of defected soldiers and their partners in organizing a campaign that urges fellow soldiers to refrain from engaging in any more acts of terror towards civilians, to permanently leave the Burmese military, and to actively join the democracy movement. If you're interested in supporting their detailed projects below, please consider contributing any amount!
Blooming Padauk (BPK) was founded on September 14th, 2021, by human rights activists and pro-democracy advocates along the Thailand-Myanmar border. As a Civil Society Organization (CSO), our mission is to build a better future for those fighting for human rights and democracy in Myanmar. We aim to provide essential assistance, such as food, shelter, and medical support, to individuals who have participated in the civil disobedience movement and their families, as well as victims of the military coup. Our organization also focuses on the rehabilitation and reintegration of these individuals into society.
BPK has experience in providing humanitarian support and livelihood assistance to migrants, refugees, Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) participants, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Mae-Sot region and Myanmar. We have implemented projects such as monthly financial support for basic needs and health care, emergency financial aid for house rent and transportation, and skill-building programs. Our livelihood training includes sewing, crochet, and cooking courses for conflict-affected women and activists. Additionally, we conduct advocacy and public messaging campaigns to contribute to the change process in Myanmar. Our organization has a team of professionals and volunteers with diverse skills, including finance, grant management, media production, strategic communication, and program coordination.
In carrying out the activities outlined in this proposal, our field offices play a crucial role. These offices ensure effective project implementation and facilitate close engagement with local communities, migrants, refugees, and other stakeholders. The field office team includes operation assistants, content creators, finance assistants, and a videographer, who work together to support the activities and initiatives of Blooming Padauk.
The proposed project aims to achieve the following objectives:
To reach out to soldiers within the Myanmar military who are considering defection and provide them with vital information and support. By sharing the experiences of defected soldiers and their families, we aim to expose the control mechanisms of the Sit-tat and inspire others to join the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) for democracy. The measurable goal is to increase the number of soldiers defecting from the military by 20% within one year.
To enhance the Blooming Padauk Organization’s operations and sustainability. The measurable goals include securing office rent and utilities, providing staff security measures, repairing and upgrading technology infrastructure, fostering networking opportunities, and ensuring the well-being and effectiveness of the organization's dedicated individuals. The goal is to improve the organization's capacity to engage in impactful initiatives and contribute to the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people.
To provide targeted support to the families of CDM soldiers. The measurable goals include providing monthly financial assistance, access to medical care, educational support, and distributing food and basic necessities. The goal is to address the immediate needs of the families, ensuring their well-being and resilience in their support for democracy in Myanmar.