Introduction

Hundreds of pro-democracy activists left for the Indo-Burma border after the 1988 military coup to continue the struggle for democracy and human rights in Burma. About a hundred women and girls were among them. Apart from these women activists,  hundreds of Burmese women refugees, mostly ethnic Chin and Kuki nationals, took shelter in India because of political and economic turmoil in Burma.

To promote the status of Burmese women as a major aim, the Women's Rights and Welfare Association of Burma (WRWAB) was formed in February 1995 in New Delhi. Initially, it was a grouping of Burmese women who were staying in Delhi. However, within a year after its formation, the organization expanded its membership to the border areas, particularly in Manipur and Mizoram States of India. At present, we have about 60  active members in the organization and the WRWAB has celebrated its 8^th anniversary in February 2003.

Objectives

•       To promote education and improved living standards for women of Burma from all spheres of life

•       To extend support and assistance to Burmese women in India who need help to start a new life

•       To bring about greater unity among women of Burma and fight against all forms of discrimination and oppression

•       To cooperate with other women's organizations around the world and participate in various activities together

•       To spread awareness of equality and rights among Burmese women and to enable them to speak out against injustice

Vision 

While fighting against discrimination of women, the WRWAB will strive to promote women's active participation in all spheres of life and empower them with the requisite skills and knowledge, and leadership qualities. Women of Burma today will become qualified political leaders of tomorrow.

Members 

Women from Burma who are 16 years and above are eligible to become a member of the WRWAB. Elections for the Executive Committee and an Annual Conference are held once a year. Members are democratically elected by secret ballot.

Activities and Programs Implemented

•         Primary & pre-nursery school in New Delhi

•         Tailoring training courses in New Delhi, Mizoram and Manipur

•         Health care centre in New Delhi

•         Handloom weaving training course in Mizoram

•         English and Hindi language classes in New Delhi

•         Basic political training courses in New Delhi

•         English language school in Manipur

•         Computer training courses in New Delhi

•         Human rights, women's rights and legal awareness training for women

•         Constitution awareness workshops for Burmese women

•         Networking and solidarity building with local women groups

•         Participating in international conferences, seminars and meetings

•         Knowledge-building and exposure trips for members.  

  For further information, please email wrwab@vsnl.net