Myanmar President Thein Sein seems to be getting his priorities wrong. That’s obvious from the government’s directive to Aung Saan Suu Kyi to call the country “Myanmar” and not “Burma” during the course of her present tour that has taken her to a number of countries in Asia and Europe. Suu Kyi, however, is not likely to heed the orders as she and her National League for Democracy have always opposed the change in the country’s name. They have felt that it was a symbolic step by the generals to create a new country. So, Myanmar seems to be ripe for another conflict at a time when it has a number of more important things to focus on.

There is no doubt that Myanmar is slowly but steadily coming out of the cold. The Senate’s confirmation of Derek Mitchell as the first US envoy to that country in 22 years is one such step. No doubt it will pave the way for the gradual normalisation of Myanmar’s position on the international stage. But this will also mean that the international community will be looking more closely at everything that is transpiring in that country. And doubtlessly, there are many wrongs to be set right there.

On top of the list is of course the human rights situation. Though there is a semblance of democracy, much more remains to be done for Myanmar to be brought under the umbrella of democratic nations and for its people to be granted full democratic rights. Of course, all that will not happen – and this includes the release of all political prisoners — in the near future despite the government’s promises which may perhaps turn out to be empty in the long term. Who knows the current amiability of the government may only be to gain an iota of acceptance and with it some form of international support. That is happening already with the lifting of sanctions that is occurring at a steady pace, the visits of foreign dignatories in search of Myanmar’s gold and the return of foreign envoys, like Mitchell from the United States.

Another priority is healing the festering wounds of various ethnic groups. With the Karens and Kachins leading the way, about six other groups are fighting the central government. Over the years, a lot of money has been spent by the military regime to crush them but they have all proved to be exercises in futility. Despite the deaths of thousands, the Karens and Kachins are fighting with determination. And this fight is likely to sap whatever remains of Myanmar’s strength. Tackling these and other problems, therefore, must have priority in the capital of Myanmar with other issues – like the country’s name – taking a backseat.