Understanding the role of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in shaping the economic policies of developing countries can be a challenge, especially in a country like Myanmar where the political and economic fabric of the country is rapidly changing. Together with New Rules for Global Finance, an organization that advocates for reforms in the rules and institutions governing the global financial system, BIC has developed a guidebook in order to demystify the Fund’s activities in Myanmar.
This guidebook, entitled Understanding & Influencing IMF Policy Advice in Myanmar, provides essential information about the IMF to civil society groups and other interested stakeholders so that they can actively and effectively shape the institution’s involvement in their country. The guidebook is organized into four parts, each of which can be used as standalone elements for events such as training sessions or workshops.
Part I provides an overview of the content in this guidebook. This section can also be used as a primer for civil society organizations who may not be familiar with the technical language used by the IMF or who just want a brief introduction to the topic.
Parts II and III form the heart of this guidebook. These sections include a summary of the IMF and its core functions; a review of the IMF’s activities in Myanmar and how these activities can impact key policy areas; and advice for civil society on how to engage with staff at the International Monetary Fund and influence the policy discussions between the IMF and your government.
Readers can use the appendices in Part IV to learn more about the IMF’s history, structure, and voting membership. This section also includes a short introduction to macroeconomics as well as contacts for key staff within the IMF and the civil society organizations that monitor the IMF’s activities.
Download the Guidebook below:
Understanding and Influencing IMF Policy Advice in Myanmar (full guidebook), New Rules and Bank Information Center, April 2016
Introduction to Myanmar and the IMF (excerpt), New Rules and Bank Information Center, April 2016
CSO Engagement with the IMF (excerpt), New Rules and Bank Information Center, April 2016