Myanmar six-party talks to boost ethnic peace process

Subject

The outlook for subsequent rounds of six-party talks.

Significance

Six-party talks covering constitutional reform, the November national legislative elections and ongoing negotiations between the central government and armed ethnic groups were held on April 10. Despite the attendees' divergent agendas, this new dialogue process represents a steering committee for Myanmar's evolving political establishment.

Impacts

• The constitutional reform referendum will probably be delayed.
• A leadership crisis within the National League for Democracy could follow the 2015 polls.
• Western support is likely to shift somewhat from Suu Kyi towards the wider electoral process.