Most outside observers of Myanmar, and Myanmar people themselves, have no illusions about the extent of real political reforms implemented since 2008 in Myanmar, but by any measure the changes that have occurred during 2010-11 represent significant milestones.

Almost 30 years ago Robert Chambers coined the term ‘poverty trap.’ He described how poor families with few possessions become trapped, without access to the resources that could change their circumstances. For example, the poor are often sick because of poor nutrition and healthcare, but being sick reduces the amount they can work and hence their income. It becomes a trap.