For decades, the Burmese military has waged brutal counterinsurgency campaigns against civilians, disproportionately targeting ethnic communities with land grabs, arbitrary detentions, repression, and gender-based violence. Since the February 2021 coup, human rights violations have escalated dramatically. The junta has intensified its campaign of terror, cracking down on dissent and targeting democracy advocates. Women and LGBTQI+ individuals, already marginalised, have been particularly vulnerable to both state violence and societal discrimination rooted in entrenched patriarchy.
Despite these immense challenges, women have led resistance efforts, advocating against atrocity crimes and repressive laws. Yet, structural barriers continue to limit their leadership opportunities and access to international advocacy platforms. To address these gaps, the Women of Burma (WoB) Internship Program, supported by Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA, was established to empower young women and LGBTQI+ activists by equipping them with skills, networks, and opportunities to drive meaningful change.
The Women of Burma Internship: Building leaders for social change
Since its inception in 1997, the Women of Burma internship has trained over 200 women from 50+ grassroots organisations across Myanmar. The five-month program develops leadership, communication, advocacy, and project management skills—critical tools for challenging gendered and ethnic discrimination while advancing social and political transformation.
Beyond training, WoB fosters a solidarity network among activists, strengthening the broader human rights movement. By bringing together diverse voices, the program builds a new generation of advocates fighting for democracy, justice, and equality.
Strengthening community networks and emergency support
WoB also provides ongoing support to alumni, including emergency grants for relocation, community projects, and shelter. Since the 2021 coup, access to international funds has been severely restricted, making these small-scale grants an essential lifeline for activists facing persecution. This support ensures that women and LGBTQI+ leaders can continue their work despite immense risks, keeping critical grassroots movements alive in Myanmar and along the Thai-Burma border.
The Power of Storytelling in Resistance
Recognising the power of storytelling in resistance, WoB launched Women’s Writers Workshops, offering women and LGBTQI+ individuals a platform for advocacy and self-expression. Since September 2023, nearly 50 participants have joined workshops along the Thai-Burma border, using creative writing to document their experiences and challenge oppressive narratives.
A major milestone was the publication of an anthology, Burma – Women’s Voices from the Revolution, launched in Australia in March 2025 during a national tour coinciding with International Women’s Day. APHEDA members and activists in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney learn more about the moving stories, which include contributions from two Rohingya women and other ethnic minorities to highlight the intersecting struggles faced by different communities in Myanmar.
Debbie Stothard, founder of Altsean-Burma and May Kim, the translator, contributing writer and producer of the book, spoke with the Australian audience confirming once again the strong links that Australian unionists have with the Burmese refugees and women’s rights movement.
Women of Burma alumni refresher course 2024
To further support its graduates, WoB held the Women of Burma Alumni Refresher Course 2024 in Bangkok from October 13-26. Eleven alumni from Burma, India, and Thailand attended, overcoming travel risks, including scrutiny by Burmese and Thai authorities. Unfortunately, some women from conflict-affected regions, such as Shan State, were unable to participate due to ongoing violence.
During the course, alumni received tailored training from ALTSEAN-Burma staff, focused on skills development and movement-building strategies. Solidarity visits to Bangkok-based partner organizations expanded their networks and strengthened cross-border collaboration. Beyond professional development, the retreat provided a much-needed space for emotional support and reconnection.
Sorn, one of the participants, reflected on its impact:
“Last night we talked a lot… this is the first time since joining the revolution that I have laughed out loud. It has been more than a year. This is the first time I can live as a student, as a child, as a friend.”
Looking Ahead: Batch 45 of the Women of Burma Internship
WoB continues in 2025 – adapting to Myanmar’s evolving political landscape while remaining committed to fostering resilient leaders. Batch 45 of the internship program began in March 2025, welcoming a new cohort of activists ready to contribute to the fight for justice and democracy. With each batch, the movement strengthens, ensuring that women and LGBTQI+ individuals gain the knowledge, skills, and solidarity needed to lead Myanmar’s struggle for a more just and inclusive future.
Through international solidarity and continued support, the Women of Burma internship remains a vital force in advancing human rights and gender justice in Myanmar.