ASIA-PACIFIC 
Burma – A snapshot
Monday, 12 May, 2008
Burma's junta has refused to postpone the constitutional referendum, despite the devastation of cyclone Nargis (Getty Images)
Burma – officially known as the Union of Myanmar – is the largest country by geographical area in mainland Southeast Asia. It is also one of the poorest nations in the region.
The country – bordered by China, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh and India – is governed by a strict military dictatorship. The State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) – chaired by General Than Shwe – has controlled the country since 1992.
Burma was administered as a province of British India until 1937 when it became a separate, self-governing colony. The country achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1948.
The military has dominated Burma's government since a coup in 1962 that toppled the civilian government of the time.
It is accepted that the country's diverse population has played a major role in defining its politics, history and demographics. And commentators say it has suffered from decades of mismanagement, stagnation and isolation.
The country's culture, heavily influenced by its neighbours, is based on Theravada Buddhism mixed with local elements.
Snapshot
Capital: Naypyidaw
Largest city: Yangon (Rangoon)
Official language: Burmese
Population: 55,390,000 (2005-2006 estimate)
For more information visit Wikipedia
Source: Wikipedia
The country – bordered by China, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh and India – is governed by a strict military dictatorship. The State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) – chaired by General Than Shwe – has controlled the country since 1992.
Burma was administered as a province of British India until 1937 when it became a separate, self-governing colony. The country achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1948.
The military has dominated Burma's government since a coup in 1962 that toppled the civilian government of the time.
It is accepted that the country's diverse population has played a major role in defining its politics, history and demographics. And commentators say it has suffered from decades of mismanagement, stagnation and isolation.
The country's culture, heavily influenced by its neighbours, is based on Theravada Buddhism mixed with local elements.
Snapshot
Capital: Naypyidaw
Largest city: Yangon (Rangoon)
Official language: Burmese
Population: 55,390,000 (2005-2006 estimate)
For more information visit Wikipedia
Source: Wikipedia
