Risks and Vulnerabilities along the Life Cycle

Myanmar is a country in transition with
great regional diversity. It is still a relatively young
country with the highest share of its population at active
working age. Myanmar’s more pressing needs are the
following: a) reducing the incidence of poverty and
improving human development outcomes, with a particular
emphasis on reaching the poor and vulnerable. Children from
poor families fare worse when it comes to nutrition, and
education outcomes; and b) addressing the insecurity of
incomes and developing mechanisms to reduce exposure to
risks and ability to cope with ill-health, disasters and
other shocks. This suggests a critical role for social
protectionpolicies and programs in Myanmar’s strategy for
poverty reduction and people-centered development.