Aung San Suu Kyi is famed internationally as a democracy icon and fighter for human rights. The Nobel Peace Prize she formally accepted in Norway on Friday drew international attention to her struggle against military dictatorship in Myanmar when the prize was conferred in 1991. She has lost none of her conviction, as her speeches during her European trip have so far shown, but her circumstances and role have markedly changed. Free from house arrest and now the main opposition leader in the quasi-civilian government, she has to also be a diplomat.
It is a role she has done masterfully since taking a seat in parliament in April with 41 members of her party, the National League for Democracy. Although President Thein Sein has implemented reforms that are fast changing the fabric and perceptions of Myanmar, power still remains in the hands of the military elite. The constitution vests authority in the regime, hundreds of political prisoners remain behind bars and there is still uncertainty about whether promises will be kept. Despite there being so much yet to push for, Suu Kyi has decided against agitation in favour of gentle nudging and reconciliation.
Having embarked on her first overseas trips after 24 years of persecution, she has also taken on the role of an ambassador. In Thailand last month, she met Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, addressed an international conference and spoke to migrant workers and refugees. Switzerland, Norway, Britain, France and Ireland will be added during her European tour. Her message is plain: While informing that she remains true to her principles, she also wants to instil confidence in her country and assure the changes are genuine.
Confidence is necessary to bring back foreign investment and development aid. Many Western sanctions have been eased or dropped, but they can be resumed. A flare-up of bloodshed between Buddhists and Muslims in the country's northwest shows how fragile stability remains. Thein Sein has much work to do, but so does Suu Kyi.