Naznin Sultana

Statelessness of the Rohingya: Exploring the Scope of Political Mobilisation for Sustainable Peacebuilding in Myanmar Post-Spring Revolution

My PhD project explores how political mobilisation of the stateless groups can shape prospects for sustainable peacebuilding in protracted ethno-religious conflicts, focusing on the Rohingya in post-coup Myanmar. Anchored in the aftermath of the 2021 Spring Revolution and the rise of the National Unity Government (NUG), it investigates how shifting political dynamics—alongside digital media-driven activism—influence pathways to inclusion and peace. The study examines how mobilisation intersects with identity, political culture, and governance, and how these factors enable or restrict inclusive peacebuilding. It further analyses the roles of multilevel stakeholders—from grassroots to international actors—in shaping the Rohingya’s political agency. Drawing comparative insights from previous ethno-religious conflicts such as Sri Lanka and Bosnia, the study also addresses whether inclusive peacebuilding frameworks developed in those contexts can be adapted to Myanmar.

Methodologically, the project employs a qualitative, multi-sited case study design, guided by a conceptual framework integrating intersectionality, identity politics, and vertical peacebuilding. It critically engages with concepts like hybrid peacebuilding, agency from below, and structural exclusion. Fieldwork includes semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and social media analysis in Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh and, where feasible, Rakhine State. Document analysis and cross-case comparisons will further inform strategies for addressing protracted statelessness and displacement.