Luxembourg, a founding member of the European Union, is stepping up its engagement to promote freedom of expression in Myanmar. The Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Bangkok is helping to shoulder the cost of training 20 young journalists, thereby contributing to strengthening independent media in military-ruled Myanmar.

The support from Luxembourg is for the journalism training of Mizzima Media Training Institute (MMTI), a unique resource for Myanmar’s independent media and journalists following the February 2021 coup. While at MMTI, trainees study several aspects of journalism under seasoned Burmese professionals as well as distinguished foreign guests.

Many may not be aware of the role Luxembourg has played for nearly a century in pioneering freedom of the airwaves. One of the first private broadcast companies in the world, Radio Luxembourg became a voice of freedom for many Europeans in the 20th century, especially those living behind the Iron Curtain. Broadcasting a mix of music, news, and cultural programming in different languages, RTL (Radio Television Luxembourg) catered to a more progressive, international audience and facilitated communication across Europe.

Regarding MMTI, Mizzima and the government of Luxembourg believe that the development of journalism skills will allow Myanmar youth from different ethnic backgrounds to draw international attention to the crimes committed in Myanmar, combat misinformation and tell the story of Myanmar people within its borders and beyond.

The 60-day training supported by Luxembourg started this month, with trainees from different states and regions across Myanmar. MMTI formally opened its doors in August 2022.