" A bibliography is never complete. No matter how conscientious the compiler there will always be gaps and scope for
additions, particularly to select bibliographies. In this regard, Burma (renamed in the 2008 constitution as the
Republic of the Union of Myanmar) is certainly no exception. Indeed, several developments over the past three years
argue strongly for the preparation of an updated checklist of the English language literature on Burma.1
Since the first edition of this work was released in July 2012, there has been an increased flow of new, revised and
reprinted publications about Burma. A survey of publishers’ catalogues and booksellers’ websites suggests that this
trend is set to continue for some time. This activity reflects a high level of interest in the country, not only in official
and academic circles, but also among the wider public. This interest is likely to be maintained in 2015, when Burma’s
hybrid civilian-military government is due to hold national elections and, in early 2016, to choose a new president.
The outcome of these competitions will be critical to the future of President Thein Sein’s ambitious reform program,
launched in 2011, and to Burma’s relations with the wider world"