Local authorities, CAs (Change Agents) and Civil society organization meet up to cooperate for public interest, and build mutual understanding and respect

A meeting aimed at cooperating for public interest with mutual understanding and respect among Local authorities, CAs (Change Agents) and Civil Society Organizations was held on July 26th 2018 at Aung-Myin-Thu Hall, Lashio township, Northern Shan State.

The ad-hoc meeting was attended by 28 participants from NeT Organization, Lashio Tomboy & Lesbian Group, Shan State Lisu Christian Association including officials of 5 governmental departments.

U Zaw Aung Htoo, deputy township administrator from the General Administrative Department of Lashio township, attended the meeting and delivered an opening speech, explaining the detail information of NGO Registration procedures.

A Change Agent(or) Human Rights Defender, one of the participants said, “I think there are so many works to do further. We can’t see much more criteria in NGO Registration procedures that are quite consistent with Democratic system according to the speech of the administrator. I think the procedures control the authority of organizations such as cases in being prosecuted. I feel that they look like huge challenges for our CA’s activities.

In the meeting, birth certification issues relating to health department and accessing fresh water (spring water, ground water) across rural areas were enquired to rural development department. The responsible persons explained that they have been trying to reach tap water system – water safety plan, undertaking National Electric Plan and off-the-grid.
After that, an official from social welfare department said, “there is safe house at the office of the social welfare department concerning the violent cases on women and there are monthly benefits for children and the elderly. Women can also request for help”.

“Today discussion is very effective. I come to realize the knowledge what I don’t know before. For example, Mya Sein Yaung microfinance (Mya Sein Yaung Project) is focusing on rural areas. Solar panel, electricity and water distribution are being provided for rural development through this project. Moreover, I come to realize about the action plans and activities for rural development by attending this meeting,” a representative who attended the meeting said.

The meeting was hosted by Local Resource Center implementing “Right for All” project.

“Right for All” human rights project is a project being implemented by Equality Myanmar, Local Resource Center and DCA-NCA with the fund of European Union.