Ishmael W. in New York writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,
I'm glad that you will be meeting with members of ethnic minority communities as part of your visit to Myanmar. Please keep in your awareness the many people who continue to be displaced from their homes by military force, and remind the military leaders that a national conversation must include the ethnic minority peoples. I appreciate your efforts to speak with truth as well as diplomacy. Thank you.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Robert F. in New York writes:

The US should not recognise the existing Junta or sell it any military equipment.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Don I. in California writes:

Secretary Clinton do not forget the growing conflicts and human rights abuses in ethnic areas. More people have been displaced this year than any other in the past decade. A genuine national dialogue of reconciliation must happen to bring peace to Burma.

Secretary Clinton push for the release of all political prisoners and for a lifting of the extreme laws that keep people locked up and perpetuate the climate of fear in the country.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Catherine D. in Canada writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,
While on your visit to Burma please push the need to free political prisoners, end rape as a war tactic and encourage the regime to end violence against ethnic minorities. Please tell the Burmese Gov't the world IS watching. Shame on them.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Belinda L. in Massachusetts writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,
There are so many that are looking to you to help see Burma through a genuine change. I hope you will be able to see the true nature of the country's needs and the ongoing human rights atrocities that still persists today. We admire your intelligence and strength, thank you for your efforts.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Rick H. in Washington writes:

Burmese leaders are responding to pressure from world leaders like Sec. Clinton and to pressure from heroes inside the country. Please listen to what they are saying and let those leaders know YOU KNOW about the political prisoners and more: Ethnic people have issued letters to Secretary Clinton asking her to not forget the atrocities occurring in their areas. The Women's League of Burma has also told Clinton she needs to push for Burma's leaders to finally stop allowing rape to be used as a weapon of war. The Burma Army's brutal actions have not stopped in the lead up to this trip. Two major reports have come out this week that document abuses happening in Kachin State since June of this year. Read Partners Relief and Developments’ Report and Physicians for Human Rights' Report.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Marie-Josee Y. in Canada writes:

We are asking you, Please demand real reform in Burma, to achieve democracy, peace and a positive future. In particular, please push for the immediate release of all political prisoners. Please do all you can to fully support the amazing efforts of Aung Sang Suu Kyi.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

J.N.P. in California writes:

I ask that you push for the immediate release of all political prisoners in Burma.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Jon M. in Virginia writes:

Please continue to pressure Burma's leaders to accept fair elections and stop genocide of minoritys

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Carol E. in Florida writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton ~

Please express strong support for Nobel Laureate, Aung Sang Suu Kyi. Also, ask the regime to release all political prisoners and end the targeted violence against ethnic groups as well as the army's using rape as a weapon of war.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Rebecca W. in Canada writes:

While I am glad to hear of a new avenue for communication, I am nervous of the hype around Burma's "progress" which is in sharp contrast to the reality in the lives of many people of Burma.

Please keep front and centre in your mind the need:

• To immediately cease all military offensives
• To initiate meaningful political dialogue with all ethnic political and armed groups
• To give unrestricted access to all areas of Burma for humanitarian assistance - especially for those civilians most effected by recent conflict in Karen, Shan and Kachin states.
• To unconditionally release all political prisoners so that they will be able to participate in the political process.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Alice R. in Washington writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,
Please talk to representatives from the ethnic groups, who are still suffering severe human rights abuses. I work in an Internally Displaced Persons camp in Shan state, as a nurse, and the camp is still growing from refugees who have suffered atrocities from the Burmese government soldiers. Rapes and murders are still happening. Please listen to those people.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Sophia V. in Texas writes:

Thank you for focusing on human rights in Burma.
While those in power in Burma have made small gestures of reconciliation, it is far from enough. I urge Secretary Clinton not to forget the growing conflicts and human rights abuses in ethnic areas, as more people have been displaced this year than any other in the past decade.
Please push for the release of all political prisoners and an end to extreme laws that keep people locked up and perpetuate the climate of fear in the country.

Thank you,

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Sharon M. in New York writes:

Please do not forget the growing conflicts and human rights abuses in ethnic areas of Burma. More people have been displaced this year than any other in the past decade. A genuine national dialogue of reconciliation must happen to bring peace to Burma.
Please push for the release of all political prisoners and for a lifting of the extreme laws that keep people locked up and perpetuate the climate of fear in the country.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Tessa in Washington, D.C. writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,

In your meetings tomorrow, please demand the release of all political prisoners and tell Burma to end the human rights abuses occurring in ethnic areas. More have been displaced this year than any other in the past decade. The time is now to bring Burma to peace.

Thank you!

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Dan D. in Texas writes:

Please Secretary Clinton don't forget about the ethnic cleansing and political persecution still going on in Burma

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Luis G. in New York writes:

Secretary Clinton,

Don't let the US and the rest of the world keep turning a blind eye to the growing conflicts and human rights abuses in ethnic areas. More people have been displaced this year than any other in the past decade. A genuine national dialogue of reconciliation must happen to bring peace to Burma. Their are child soldiers, slaves and ethnic cleansing that has been going on for over 60 years. Bring the Junta out into the light of day!

Thank you for going to Burma Hilary, make it a trip for the history books.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Michelle in Pennsylvania writes:

Please advocate for Burma. In all of my travels, I've never been to a place with more welcoming people. Despite the conditions in which they live, they remain resilient and strong. Please help the Burmese obtain the freedom they deserve.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Alfonso A. in Central America writes:

So glad you are visiting Burma, Myanmar.

Please, take seriously under consideration the thoughts and feelings of the local opposition like Nobel Laureate, Aung Sang Suu Kyi and their demands. There is much at the stake for the and for many others. End to political persecution and ethnic violence are priorities for the well being of the population and for the future of the country.

Thank you

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Reva in the U.S.A. writes:

I visited Burma in 2001 and was shocked by the fear of the country's people.

We can not forget the growing conflicts and human rights abuses in ethnic areas. More people have been displaced this year than any other in the past decade. A genuine national dialogue of reconciliation must happen to bring peace to Burma.
We need to push for the release of all political prisoners and for a lifting of the extreme laws that keep people locked up and perpetuate the climate of fear in the country.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Heather R. in Singapore writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,

Thank you for taking the time to focus your attention on Burma. Please do not forget about the atrocities being committed in other parts of the country. Please demand the release of all political prisoners in this beautiful country. The people of Burma deserve a chance to truly experience freedom and democracy from an oppressive and tyrannical regime.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

James U. in Colorado writes:

Dear Honorable Secretary Clinton,

Thank-you so very much for making Burma a priority. The images of peaceful, Buddhist monks being beaten and imprisoned is still seared into my mind. Please, demand that these political prisoners be released. I also beg of you to strongly denounce the ethnic cleansing occurring in Burma. Again, thank-you so very much for fighting for the Burmese people. Please, keep up the great work!! And, best of luck!!

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Joana in Portugal writes:

Keep up the pressure, please.
The Burmese people NEED change!

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Rickie P. in the U.K. writes:

Please call for the release of all Burmese political prisoners whilst in talks with the Myanmar authorities. It is of critical importance to free prisoners of conscience if there are to be any advances towards democracy in Burma.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Maria in Canada writes:

Please use this great opportunity to maximize your influence for the release of all political prisoners and end the targeted violence against ethnic groups. Please listen carefully to Nobel Laureate, Aung Sang Suu Kyi. Don't let this country slide backwards, but support steps toward a more democratic future.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Barb in Australia writes:

Help end the violence in Burma , release all political prisoners,stop targeting ethnic groups and restore democracy.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Lydia in Austria writes:

Please help the citizens of Burma and support Aung Sang Suu Kyi!
Set the Goverment of Burma under pressure to release all political prisoners and end the targeted violence against ethnic groups.
Help Burma to be free!
Thank you!

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Neville K. in New Zealand writes:

Having met many Burmese refugees here in N.Z, and spent 2 weeeks there to check out conditions for myself, I wish to plead with the U.S. Govt. not to give in to the Burmese regime until the people have been freed from persecution and tyrany.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Melissa D. in the U.K writes:

Please demand that Burma carry out real political reforms. Let the Burmese government know that the U.S. will not support a repressive government. Thanks for engaging with Burma - please use the opportunity to support the courageous Burmese democracy protesters and push for real reform.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Janet B. in the U.K writes:

Please let the Burmese Government know that we want continued progress. Please call for the release of all political prisoners and an end to state violence directed towards those who do not support the dictatorship. Thank you.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Fay L. in New Zealand writes:

Please let the Burmese Gov't know that the World will still be watching their treatment of their citizens, and the progress toward a more open and tolerant society. Thank you.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Diana V. in Australia writes:

Thank you for your engagement with Burma.

Please do your utmost to support the courageous Aung Sang Suu Kyi.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Adam K. in the U.K writes:

Dear Hilary,

Please help push for reform and change in Burma to ensure that its people experience the freedom and democracy enjoyed by Americans. You are in a strong position to influence Burma's future, so please do the right thing.

Many thanks, Adam.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

WWW writes:

so amused you are visiting Bruma

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Eagle in the U.K. writes:

hi sec
a very influential is held down in burma, and i believe this online protest and public out cry will strengthen another very influential woman from america who can do something to aid her release and eventually she may be able to have a say in how burma is run

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Ruth F. in the U.K. writes:

Dear Ms Clinton,

I'm so pleased to hear that you are visiting Burma. I do hope that you will be able to take the opportunity to press the regime to move towards genuine democracy and political freedom.

Kind regards,
Ruth

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

R.H. in South Africa writes:

Burma has been in the cold - of its own doing - for a long time so please maintain pressure for genuine and sustained political reform to the benefit of the populous at large. Step by step monitoring will be required to assess real change.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Mother Clare W. in the U.S.A. writes:

Dear Secretary, Please do not pass up this chance to use the favor that Burma seeks to get from us to insist that they stop the atrocious practices that have imprisoned and tortured so many innocents. Make no deal unless they release all the political prisoners and mend their ways toward justice and tolerance of all.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Leslie L. in Canada writes:

Dear Ms. Hilary Clinton,
Show the strength we know you embody. Maintain pressure on Burma calling for major democratic reform. It is a statement to the world as well as for the People of Burma.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Donna B. in Idaho writes:

Please keep up the pressure for reform as you travel to Burma

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Jean G. in New Zealand writes:

Dear Hilary,
Burma has a long way still to go before the military regime can be applauded for their stance. Please do not lift sanctions until they have released their political prisoners and stop the violence against their own civilians.
The world is becoming less accepting of this sort of government.
Regards, Jean.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

M.D. in Spain writes:

Please do support Nobel Laureate, Aung Sang Suu Kyi, and ask the regime to release all political prisoners and end the targeted violence against ethnic groups.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Lis J. in the U.K. writes:

Dear Ms Clinton,

Please be robust in calling for more democracy and the installation of civilian law. Military rule is still entrenched. Most political prisoners remain in jail and the Burmese army's brutality has kicked into high gear targeting ethnic civilians.

There is a clear path towards real change in Burma -- the release of all political prisoners, a ceasefire, holding all those responsible for atrocities to account, amending the Constitution, and genuine moves towards national reconciliation.

Your visit is the first by a US Secretary of State in 50 years. If you join with the courageous Burmese democracy activists now to keep up the pressure -- you could help make these changes happen.

Thank you

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Carl B. in California writes:

hilary, please make sure that a true democracy is the expectation for and in burma, is the message you deliver to the leaders and to the people of this highly repressed society! thank you for your efforts...carl

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Ed D. in the U.K. writes:

Regimes like Burma's military always crave legitimacy. Don't give this to them until they earn it by ending the brutal treatment the visit upon their own citizens.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Tony W. in the U.K writes:

Seems to me that the few concessions the Burmese junta has made lately are in response to the pressure being applied from outside.

Secretary Clinton's visit is a great opportunity to make it clear that this is just the beginning of the process, and to define clearly the next steps that are needed before trade and normal relations can resume.

The Burmese people need a clear message that the US supports their struggle for democracy.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Jos F. in the U.K writes:

Dear Mrs Clinton , please take a lead from the other states who do not recognise this junta .

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Leif R. in Sweden writes:

Dear Hillary!

Please keep pressure on Burmese military regime.

They must free all political prisoner, allow free press and free opinions to be heard.

They have to get the country back to the people.

As an US representative you have a great opportunity to raise US reputation among all of us that have doubt about your countrys behaviour.

With hope for a free world populated by a free mankind.

Cinserely
Leif R.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Zharkov in the U.S.A. writes:

Some readers may be confused about why you call Myanmar, "Burma".

The ruling military junta changed its name from Burma to Myanmar in 1989, a year after thousands were killed in the suppression of a popular uprising. Rangoon also became Yangon.

The change was recognised by the United Nations, and by countries such as France and Japan, but not by the United States and the UK.

A statement by the UK Foreign Office says: "Burma's democracy movement prefers the form 'Burma' because they do not accept the legitimacy of the unelected military regime to change the official name of the country. Internationally, both names are recognised."

So does the choice of Burma or Myanmar indicate a particular political position?

Mark Farmener, of Burma Campaign UK, says: "Often you can tell where someone's sympathies lie if they use Burma or Myanmar. Myanmar is a kind of indicator of countries that are soft on the regime.

If Burmese people are writing for publication, they use 'Myanmar', but speaking they use 'Burma'

Richard Coates, a linguist at the University of Western England, says adopting the traditional, formal name is an attempt by the junta to break from the colonial past.

The UN uses Myanmar, presumably deferring to the idea that its members can call themselves what they wish.

Local opposition groups do not accept that, and presumably prefer to use the 'old' colloquial name, at least until they have a government with popular legitimacy.
Governments that agree with this stance still call the country Burma.

The UN uses Myanmar, presumably deferring to the idea that its members can call themselves what they wish, provided the decision is recorded in UN proceedings. There are hosts of papers detailing such changes. The EU uses Burma/Myanmar.

A better question is, why is a military oligarchy allowed to remain a UN member?

Are there no standards of decency for entry into the UN?

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Miriam E. in the United Kingdom writes:

I understand that in 24 hours, Hilary Clinton will visit Burma. This is wonderful! Her message could finally force this brutal regime to make major democratic reforms.

I am aware that the Burmese regime wants the US to recognise them and lift sanctions now. But Nobel Laureate, Aung Sang Suu Kyi says the regime must release all political prisoners and end the targeted violence against ethnic groups.

It is really important that sanctions are not lifted until real reforms are made. As I am sure Hilary Clinton is aware, if she simply applauds initial changes the country could be thrown back into crisis.

I therefore write to support the strategies suggested by Aung Sang Suu Kyi, who more than anyone else, understands the problems of Burma, and the route to real change for the better.

My wishes go with Hilary Clinton on this visit. This is a big opportunity in Burma for a move towards democracy.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Grayden in Canada writes:

Burma's negligible, if slightly promising, steps are not nearly good enough. Don't congratulate them for simply being less appalling than before. Keep up the pressure, and make sure they know it is still not nearly good enough!

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Sarah D. in the United Kingdom writes:

Please demand real reform in Burma, to achieve democracy, peace and a positive future. In particular, please push for the immediate release of all political prisoners. Please do all you can to fully support the amazing efforts of Aung Sang Suu Kyi.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Maureen M. in New Jersey writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,

I urge to continue to take action on your belief in equality and democracy by supporting Aung Sang Suu Kyi and her party and releasing all political prisoners. Please do what you can to make a substantive difference in lives of the people of Burma.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

John S. in the U.K. writes:

Please be firm with the Burmese leaders so that the people can have a better life.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Gerhard W. in Germany writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton, you have the unique opportunity to support the Burmese people in reclaiming their country. I urge you not to accept the initial changes made the regime as being sufficient.
With best wishes for a effective journey
Gerhard

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Christine L. in the U.K writes:

Secretary Clinton,

Please demand real reform in Burma, to achieve democracy, peace and a positive future. In particular, please push for the immediate release of all political prisoners. Please do all you can to fully support the amazing efforts of Aung Sang Suu Kyi.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Andrew B. in the U.K. writes:

Please use your influence to push for genuine political reform in Burma.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Chris G. in South Africa writes:

All right thinking human beings join in heart and mind as you pursue a cause in the pursuit of justice, the most precious of all commodities.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Ray S. in California writes:

US policy should alway strongly back up democratic movements worldwide.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Marilyn N. in Australia writes:

Please use your time in Burma to advocate for real reform and the immediate release of all political prisoners and detainees.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Cristina M. in the U.S. writes:

Min Ko Naing, U Gambira, Daw Su Su Nway are all still behind bars -- despite being some of the most promising leaders who can bring Burma into genuine democracy and peace. The first step to reform is for Thein Sein to free them (finally and unconditionally), then end hostilities against ethnic minorities and reform the flawed 2008 constitution.

I have signed a petition on Change.org, along with 44,000 other people, to support Burmese exile monk U Pyinya Zawta's request along these same lines.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Lysbeth M. in Thailand writes:

please keep pressure up to support Aung Suu Kyi's requirements for reform before any concessions are made.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Daniel L. in Missouri writes:

Please be tough on Burma during the upcoming visit. They need to be reminded of how far they have to go, not simply praised for making basic steps!

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Alice J. in Spain writes:

Please do not just praise the Burmese Generals for their initial changes. Make a clear statement that policy will not change unless all political prisoners are free, atrocities to the ethnic groups stop and the constitution is amended.

Only sustained pressure will push real reform and liberate the people of Burma from violence and repression.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Stephen B. in Ireland writes:

Dear Hilary,

while I applaud your campaign towards ensuring democracy in Burma, I would be grateful if you would press home the importance of ensuring the existing regime releases all political prisoners and ends their targeted violence against ethnic groups.

Thank you also for your assistance in bringing about the Peace Process in (Northern) Ireland. You are a good woman.

When you are next in Belfast drop by for a cuppa and a chat!

peace,
Stephen
Ireland

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Bert B. in the U.K. writes:

Please continue your valuable international work for freedom and justice by maintaining the pressure on Burma to instigate real democratic reforms so its people can live free from the injustice and fear which has characterised the lives of those who have struggled for freedom.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Marcus in Austria writes:

Dear Secretary of State Hillary Clinton,

please send a clear message to Burma, that they have to continue their recent path of reforms towards more democracy and to end suppression of ethnic minorities and political opposition.

This could be a great opportunity to show the people of the world how determined American leadership can have a truly positive impact on the world we all live on!

Best Regards from Austria,
Marcus

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Marvin C. in the Philippines writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton,

Please make a strong stand when you visit Burma and recognize the efforts of Aung Sang Suu Kyi. If the United States is truly aiming for democracy and worldwide equality, condemn the heinous acts of the military regime in Burma. Thousands of Burmese are suffering everyday, while the people in the military loot the nation. Please consider our plea.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Nancy S. in the U.K. writes:

I write to urge you to take a strong line with the Burmese in your meeting. Please do all in your power to stop them oppressing the people of Burma.
Please press for the release of all the political prisoners and true electoral reform. The people of Burma need people like you to stand up for them. When bullies oppress so badly, those of us fortunate enough to live elsewhere need to act otherwise we simply condone their action.
I’m sure you don’t condone it, so please use the power you have.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Marc B. in Thailand writes:

Burma's government must release all political prisoners and end the targeted violence against ethnic groups before it is recognized by the US.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Patrick J. in Canada writes:

Dear Miss Clinton,

I wonder if you realize there are a lot more people around the world who would vote for you if they could... Your mandate is much larger then USA... I hope President Obama and yourself will make a difference for a better future for the rest of the world too. What is going on in Burma needs much more improvement. Please make sure there will be an elected government in the near future or better, re-instate the one that was ousted by the military regime. Thank you and may Buddha guide your steps while in Burma.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Dr. Nikolaus S. in Germany writes:

I am very concerned that this trip might serve the junta in buttressing its claims to legitimacy. Hence, it will be important to meet with Aung Sang Suu Kyi and other opposision members from Burma. Rather than representatives of the brutal government.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Pete G. in the U.K. writes:

It's good that the US is engaging with Burma however the Secretary of State should be robust in calling for more democracy and the installation of civilian law. This regime is still oppressing many of it's people. The US should not recognise the existing Junta or sell it any military equipment.

Posted on Wed Nov 30, 2011

Nay Min T. in Illinois writes:

Dear Sir

We support a step towards to reform Burma.

We believe its our principles to remind

To release each and every innocent Human rights prisoner,

To stop persecuting minorities, war against ethnics.

To announce and distribute Universal Human rights deceleration for every Burmese citizens. So that Burmese people will know what rights they have and demand regardless of any Burma constitution. These steps must take immediate action before any reform. or to start in progress to reform. the mission will make no difference If the Burmese Junta Gov fails to release innocents people and to stop persecuting minorities. Burma is always left behind for past Four U.S President since, 1988 and its the great opportunities for this time to productive plan

We believe President Obama have a hopes and a plans to end Political Games by Burma Regime and we support the cause just to free 60 millions people of freedom. United.

A.S / FWG

Posted on Mon Nov 28, 2011

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Palgye,

Good to see you back on the blog my friend, I was just thinking that one man's trash is another man's treasure.

And often happiness is like finding a bright pearl in a pile of,....dung.

(chuckle)

EJ

Posted on Mon Nov 28, 2011

Palgye in South Korea writes:

South Korea in time for tomorrow night, 8:00 South Korea's Samsung (e) and Japan's Softbank will be held in Taiwan's baseball game going, I'm tired, even a small taste to Japanese in order to present, Japan's Softbank hope to win so bad.

However, the Japanese people do not forget to revenge.

Put hot money in China as in Europe, Japan, as the money wants to invest. For rehabilitation and containment.

So, just think it's abandoned in garbage dumps, i`m.

Posted on Mon Nov 28, 2011