Question: Burma or Myanmar?

Often used interchangeably, many people are unsure whether to refer to Southeast Asia's second-largest country as Burma or Myanmar.

Answer:

Technically, both Burma and Myanmar are accepted, however, the context in which the name is used can be a sensitive -- and often controversial -- topic.

The official name of the country was changed from the 'Union of Burma' to the 'Union of Myanmar' in 1989 and later to the 'Republic of the Union of Myanmar' by the military regime after their successful coup.

The name was changed only in the English version; the name of the country did not change in the local language.

Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy still refer to the country as 'Burma.' Using the name 'Burma' is often viewed as a form of defiance against the current government, a regime accused of numerous human rights violations.

• See more about what it takes to get a visa to visit Burma.
• Learn the location of Burma and see some interesting facts about the country.

Some historians prefer to use 'Burma' when referring to the country before the regime came to power. Politicians sometimes switch between the two terms while speaking to avoid appearing that they are taking a specific stance.

Burma or Myanmar in Politics

Choosing which name to call the country has been viewed somewhat as making a political statement. While the United Nations adopted the term 'Myanmar' only five days after the name change was put forward, many world governments still refuse to recognize the new government and continue to use 'Burma' in defiance.

Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia still usually refer to the country as 'Burma' to show that they do not recognize the military government as legitimate.

Japan, China, India, Germany, Russia, and the rest of Southeast Asia now refer to the country as 'Myanmar.'

While Hilary Clinton deliberately avoided using either Burma or Myanmar during her visit as Secretary of State, President Obama sparked controversy during his 2012 visit by using the term 'Myanmar' despite the official policy of the U.S. to use only 'Burma.'

• Knowing about responsible travel is essential when visiting Burma/Myanmar.

Myanmar in the Media

Many major media outlets such as CNN, the New York Times, Associated Press, Reuters, and others now use 'Myanmar' to follow the lead of the United Nations.

The Washington Post and the BBC both still use 'Burma.' Many other sources prefer to write the country as 'Burma/Myanmar.'

As Burma moves more toward democracy and sanctions are lifted, more and more media organizations have begun to switch to using 'Myanmar' over 'Burma.'