Will the sanctions make any difference?

Probably not. Sanctions have been in force for years with no apparent impact on the reclusive military regime in Burma, which seems impervious to outside pressure. It has benefited from close trade ties with China and India, who vie for influence with the regime and need Burma’s energy and other resources for their growing economies.

Is China the key?

Yes, China is Burma’s biggest trading partner and has most influence on the regime. It has consistently resisted action against Rangoon, in part because of its own human rights record. But with next year’s Olympics looming in Beijing, there are indications that the Chinese may become more co-operative. They have recently taken a tougher stand with allies such as North Korea, Sudan and Zimbabwe. They may be persuaded to harden their position towards Burma.