Myanmar Women's Liberation Manifesto: A Vision for Equality and Justice
This is the sixth and final installment in Moe Gyo’s essay submission exploring the role of Burmese women in the revolution against the military junta.
The struggle for women’s liberation in Myanmar is inextricably linked to the broader fight against oppression, exemplified by the recent Spring Revolution. This movement embodies the collective aspirations of a diverse populace striving for a democratic society free from the shackles of military rule. The Women’s Liberation Front of Myanmar (WLFM) emerges as a powerful voice within this revolution, advocating for the dismantling of patriarchy and the establishment of gender equality across all sectors. Our manifesto articulates the urgent need to empower women as equals in social, economic, political, and security domains, while also drawing inspiration from global movements.
The Spring Revolution marks a pivotal moment in Myanmar’s history, ignited by widespread dissent against the military coup of February 2021. Citizens from various backgrounds, including ethnic minorities, urban workers, and rural farmers, united to demand democracy, justice, and human rights. Central to this movement is the recognition that women are not only victims of oppression, but also vital agents of change. As Myanmar grapples with its identity and future, the WLFM calls for an inclusive approach that places women at the forefront of societal transformation. Therefore:
The WLFM draws inspiration from the Kurdish women’s movement, which has been instrumental globally in challenging patriarchal structures and advocating for women’s rights. This movement has emphasized the importance of women’s autonomy, leadership, and participation in all aspects of society. At the core of the Kurdish women’s movement is a feminist framework that seeks to understand the social, political, and economic realities of women’s lives. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of gender, class, and ethnicity, advocating for an approach that addresses multiple forms of oppression. The WLFM adopts this framework as a guiding principle, recognizing that the struggle for women’s liberation cannot be separated from the broader fight against systemic injustices. By embracing this holistic perspective, we can develop strategies that empower women while addressing the root causes of inequality.
The WLFM calls for a redefinition of masculinity that embraces empathy, cooperation, and respect for women. This involves challenging traditional notions of masculinity that perpetuate dominance and control. Men must engage in self-reflection and actively participate in discussions about gender equality, recognizing their privilege upon birth over women and advocating for systemic change.
The patriarchal structures embedded within Myanmar’s society must be dismantled to achieve true liberation. Patriarchy is not merely a social construct; it is a system that perpetuates inequality, marginalizes women, and denies them agency. The WLFM stands firmly against all forms of discrimination, advocating for policies that challenge traditional gender roles and dismantle the societal norms that uphold male dominance.
To eliminate patriarchy, we must engage in a cultural transformation that challenges deeply ingrained beliefs and practices. Education plays a crucial role in this process, promoting gender sensitivity and awareness from an early age. Curricula should reflect diverse perspectives, emphasizing women’s contributions to society and history. By fostering an environment of respect and equality, we can cultivate a generation that values gender equity and actively works to dismantle patriarchal norms.
The WLFM envisions a society where women are recognized as equals across all sectors of Myanmar. This includes social, economic, political, and security spheres. Gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but also a catalyst for societal progress.
The military (Tatmadaw) has long been associated with oppression and violence. The inclusion of women in leadership roles within the security sector, including police, corrections, intelligence services, border management, and other security sector institutions, is critical to challenge the prevailing patriarchal militaristic culture and dismantle traditional notions of masculinity that often dominate these fields. By promoting women into these roles, we can help redefine the narratives surrounding security and conflict, fostering a culture of cooperation, communication, and community engagement.
Women’s representation in politics is vital for a truly democratic society. The WLFM demands equitable representation of women in all levels of government and decision-making bodies. This includes advocating for policies that promote gender parity in political representation, supporting women candidates, and creating spaces for women’s voices to be heard. A diverse political landscape ensures that the needs and perspectives of all citizens are addressed, leading to more inclusive governance.
Women’s economic empowerment is crucial for the overall development of Myanmar. The WLFM calls for initiatives that promote women’s participation in the workforce, entrepreneurship, and leadership in economic decision-making. By providing access to resources, training, and financial support, we can enable women to thrive economically. This economic independence not only benefits women but also strengthens families and communities, fostering resilience against systemic injustices.
In the social sector, women must have equal access to healthcare, education, and social services. This requires the establishment of policies that address systemic barriers, such as gender-based violence and discrimination. The WLFM advocates for comprehensive health services that cater to women’s unique needs, including maternal healthcare and mental health support. Education should empower women with knowledge and skills, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
While advocating for women’s empowerment, it is essential to acknowledge the role of men in this transformative journey. Men must be active participants in the movement toward gender equality, assuming leadership roles in sectors such as health, education, and social affairs. Men in leadership positions must collaborate with women to create inclusive policies and practices. This partnership can facilitate a more holistic approach to addressing societal challenges, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of all genders are considered. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and collaboration, we can create a society that values diversity and equality.
The WLFM envisions a collective future where women and men work together to build a just and equitable society. This requires solidarity among diverse groups, fostering a sense of shared purpose and mutual support. Understanding the intersections of gender, ethnicity, class, and other social identities is crucial for addressing the unique challenges faced by marginalized women. The WLFM advocates for an intersectional approach that recognizes the diverse experiences of women and ensures that all voices are heard in the liberation movement.
Engaging communities in the fight for gender equality is essential for fostering lasting change. The WLFM encourages grassroots activism, supporting local initiatives that empower women and challenge patriarchal norms. By building strong networks of support and solidarity, we can create a powerful movement that transcends borders and inspires change.
The WLFM stands at the forefront of the fight for gender equality and social justice. This Manifesto articulates the urgent need to eliminate patriarchy, empower women as equals, and redefine societal roles for both men and women. We recognize that the struggle for women’s liberation is intertwined with the broader fight for justice and equality.
As we move forward, the WLFM calls on all individuals - regardless of gender - to join us in this transformative journey. Together, we can create a future where women, men, and marginalized communities thrive in a society built on the principles of equality, justice, and solidarity. The time for change is now, and we must work collectively to realize the vision of a liberated Myanmar.
Central Executive Committee
Women's Liberation Front of Myanmar