On Sanctions, Dialogue and Democracy

1. In the past you have always supported sanctions against the Burmese junta. What is your position now on continuing sanctions? Do you see any other strategies that could be more effective in pressuring the junta to open up and allow more freedom in the country?

2. Can the “Roadmap for Democracy” be of any use in leading the country forward?

3. You have suffered for many years in the struggle to bring democracy to Burma. And, as you are well aware, the Burmese people are also suffering greatly. Do you have any words of guidance for them? Was there any one thing in particular that helped keep you strong in your darkest days?

4. Is the military junta that has ruled Burma for so long now any different today than it was in the past? Do you have any reason to believe they won’t just re-arrest you tomorrow?

5. There are many problems that the Burmese people face everyday – poor nutrition, poor health care, poverty, lack of educational opportunity. Is there anything that the Burmese government could do tomorrow to alleviate some of these problems and show concern for the Burmese people?

6. Other authoritarian countries like China and Vietnam have pursued open markets first which some believe will eventually lead to more open societies. Do you see this as a possible model for Burma? Why or why not?