Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section is designed to help you understand our mission, work, and impact of the Institute for Peace and Social Justice (IPSJ).
What does IPSJ stand for and what is its mission?
IPSJ stands for the Institute for Peace and Social Justice. Our mission is to advance Myanmar’s federal democratic transition by strengthening inclusive governance, upholding constitutionalism and the rule of law, protecting human rights, and promoting peaceful conflict transformation
When was IPSJ established?
IPSJ was established in 2011.
Where is IPSJ located?
Following the 2021 military coup, we transitioned to a decentralized, cross-border operational model and are currently based in Thailand.
What are your primary areas of focus?
Our work spans several critical pillars:
- Food Security and Livelihood
- Democracy and Human Rights
- Federalism & Local Governance
- Rule of Law & Independent Judiciary
- Constitutional Affairs
- Political Dialogue, Engagement, and Peace Building
- Natural Resource Governance and Revenue Sharing
- Climate Change and Environmental Rights
What is your approach to peacebuilding?
We act as an independent convener, facilitating sensitive political and inter-ethnic dialogues to resolve disputes peacefully and foster trust across diverse stakeholders.
How does IPSJ address climate change?
We advance climate justice by integrating environmental sustainability and social equity within the broader struggle for federal democracy, specifically equipping youth and civil society to advocate for sustainable pathways.
What is your approach to peacebuilding?
We act as an independent convener, facilitating sensitive political and inter-ethnic dialogues to resolve disputes peacefully and foster trust across diverse stakeholders.
What is the “Progressive Development” approach?
This is our step-by-step, participatory pathway toward lasting peace and democracy. It prioritizes building trust, capacity, and accountable institutions through locally owned processes.
Why does IPSJ focus on evidence-based policy?
We believe that meaningful transformation requires credible policy solutions. By translating rigorous research into practical recommendations, we ensure that our work directly informs institutional reform and decision-making.
What values guide your work?
Our core values include:
- Solidarity and Local Ownership
- Human Dignity and Rights
- Federal Democracy and Inclusion
- Dialogue and Peaceful Transformation
- Integrity and Accountability
- Evidence and Learning
What values guide your work?
Our core values include:
- Solidarity and Local Ownership
- Human Dignity and Rights
- Federal Democracy and Inclusion
- Dialogue and Peaceful Transformation
- Integrity and Accountability
- Evidence and Learning
What resources are available for the public?
We provide a variety of materials, including:
- Policy Briefs: Actionable insights on key governance issues.
- Research Reports: Applied research informing institutional reform.
- Training Materials: Curricula and tools for democracy advocates.
- Multimedia Library: Videos, podcasts, and infographics on Myanmar’s transition.
How can I get involved with IPSJ?
You can engage with us through our alumni networks, thematic groups like book clubs or study circles, and by accessing our learning resources.
How do you work with partners?
We collaborate with civil society, community groups, youth/farmers’ organizations, and international research institutes based on a shared commitment to local solutions and mutual respect.
