INTRODUCTION: "On November 7, 2010, Burma/Myanmar1 will organize its first parliamentary elections since 1990. The significance of the elections stems from the controversial constitution on which they are based and which involves a complete reconfiguration of the political structure. It establishes a presidential system of government with a bicameral legislature as well as fourteen regional governments and assemblies – the most wide-ranging change in a generation. The purpose of this report, financed by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland from the Crisis Management Initiative (CMI), is to examine the political situation Burma/Myanmar at a time when the country is facing a unique moment. It provides analysis of the pre-election political situation and identifies opportunities for further engagement by the international community in the post-election period with the aim of supporting democratic and peaceful change in the country, including dialogue and reconciliation with the leadership of the Myanmar government. The report starts with an analysis of the current political context in which the November elections will be organized, highlighting the key sources of societal and political conflict. Second, the report looks at the preparations for the election, paying special attention to both the shortcomings of the process during the campaigning period and issues to watch out for on election day. Then the report surveys the positions of both internal and external actors regarding the elections, and how they can influence the process. The final chapter gathers the key findings and provides recommendations on how to constructively support conflict prevention, democracy and the improvement of government policies in Burma/Myanmar. The international community and all political groups in Burma/Myanmar face major challenges in how to respond to the November elections. So far the response has been highly fractured. However, the current situation should not be viewed too pessimistically. Obstacles for change must be recognized. Pessimism fuels apathy; and apathy will result in the missing of opportunities for progress. Despite the very obvious flaws in the election process, the generational transition and the transition within the political system (due to the elections themselves and any possible protests over their fairness) can offer genuine opportunities both in the short run as well as in the longer term. New political landscape will emerge, giving rise to opportunities to push for change, as well as a new set of challenges. Incremental political change is possible; it is also the most likely scenario for Burma/Myanmar. The November elections are a step forward in this process. After a generation without elections this is a crucial learning and training period for the political parties on how to represent citizens? interests, how to campaign and act as a part of a political system. Above all, this will prepare ground for more meaningful elections in 2015."