5. Social Information and Mobilisation (SIM)
The SIM is being piloted in the Myitsone dam area as a research, documentation, archiving and publication project focused on community issues and community voices in matters of socio-economic development. SIM will make it possible for local community groups to raise their voices in solidarity so they can influence public policy and also be heard at the negotiation table. SIM will also provide support to communities and independent social researchers working in the same areas of community interest.
Year One Results – The SIM team coordinated activities involving persons from Kachin and northern Shan states that began mobilizing communities including: forming a SIM core group; forming a farmer network; initiating activities to protect land and preserve cultural sites; holding a public celebration to raise awareness about halting the Myitsone dam construction; conducting a land law awareness workshop; and holding 8 civil society organisation meetings.