Britannica AI Icon

State Peace and Development Council

Myanmar government
Also known as: SLORC, SPDC, State Law and Order Restoration Council(Show More)

Quick Summary

The State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) was the ruling military junta in Myanmar (formerly Burma) from 1997 to 2011. It was a successor to the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC). Than Shwe, a military leader, headed the SPDC and effectively served as the head of state and government during this period.1

Under Than Shwe's leadership, the SPDC's rule was characterized by a refusal to engage in democratic reforms and continued house arrest of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The regime also focused on quelling internal revolts by ethnic groups, often through peace agreements or cease-fires. A significant development during this time was the construction of Nay Pyi Taw, which became the country's new capital in 2006. The SPDC was formally dissolved in March 2011 when Than Shwe relinquished his position as head of state and government.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.