Developing CLE in Myanmar-Lessons Learned and Global Guidance

Abstract

This paper, Developing CLE in Myanmar: Lessons Learned and Global
Guidance, is an adaption of an Advocacy Paper entitled The Global Path
and Future of CLE in Myanmar, which merged from findings from more
than three years of BABSEACLE’s work, often in collaboration with New
Perimeter (DLA Piper’s global pro bono non-profit affiliate) and Herbert
Smith Freehills (HSF) (collectively referred to as the “Consortiumâ€). The
Consortium worked with eighteen Myanmar university law departments
to implement Clinical Legal Education (CLE) programmes in partnership
with diverse stakeholders in Myanmar (2013-Present). The Paper
presents key strategies which the author believes will contribute to the
sustainable future of a nationwide CLE programme in Myanmar with
insights and lessons learned that are applicable both regionally and
globally. This timely initiative was undertaken with broad, wide-ranging
support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the
United States Agency for International Development Promoting Ruleof-
law Project (USAID PRLP) and other related organisations. This Paper
highlights how drawing on and applying findings from regional and
global experiences, CLE in Myanmar has grown from its nascent stage
into a young but ever increasing vibrant movement of educational and
justice change and impact. In doing so, this movement is helping to
create the noteworthy educational justice change and impact, including
its interaction with others in the legal sector, that we are currently
witnessing. This Paper evaluates the impact of implementing a
nationwide CLE programme in Myanmar from early 2013 to the present.
Simultaneously, the Paper is also a timely resource for planning; to
develop, implement or strengthen CLE programmes in Myanmar and
worldwide. It also offers pragmatic recommendations to facilitate the
expansion, institutionalization, and sustainability of CLE in Myanmar
and elsewhere.