Working with community groups, women, and other, vulnerable groups on the ground has been UNDP Myanmar’s approah to community development. Through education and training programmes villagers are oriented with HDI’s projects and activities. In 2009, women continued to thrive through SRGs, youth in the Ayeyarwady Delta were trained to express themselves through theatre; and those living with HIV/AIDS organized activities through Self Help Groups, or SHGs. Outside organisations, large and small, local and international, worked with UNDP Myanmar to develop creative programming that pushed the agenda and changed lives.

The intention of these programmes was to lift self-esteem and improve the quality of life for participants, but they had a dual affect: The projects influenced the way Myanmar people themselves see issues of disability, HIV/AIDS and gender. This change in thinking locally has arguably influenced policy and helped make life easier for those struggling for equality.