Video Explainer: Myanmar or Burma?

What’s in a name? Some sources — such as the U.S. Government — call Myanmar by its former name, Burma. Others — such as many journalists — use Myanmar. Review this Channel One News Explainer to explore the issue further.

For Teachers

Consider the issue of name choice—Myanmar or Burma—in the context of Media Literacy. The choice of name can tell readers something about the author’s point of view. Have students meet in small groups to discuss the following:

• Why does the government of Myanmar prefer the country’s new name?
• Why do many governments officially use the old name, Burma?
• The Associated Press and most other U.S. news outlets say Myanmar. Why would they make that decision?
• The advocacy group Human Rights Watch uses Burma. Why do you think this type of advocacy group chooses that name?
• Which name do you think journalists and other countries should use? Why?

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