Examining the contribution of voluntary civil society organizations to community resilience: A case study of the Yangon Rescue Organization (YRO), Myanmar : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Applied Science at Lincoln University

Abstract

Following a series of serious disasters, in particular, Cyclone Nargis in 2008, the activities of third sector organizations throughout Myanmar became more apparent. They were seen providing emergency services, humanitarian aid and technical support for community development. This adds weight to the claim that insufficient service delivery by the state has resulted in the emergence and strengthening of voluntary civil society organizations to fill the gaps. This thesis is based on a case study of a voluntary civil society organization called the Yangon Rescue Organization (YRO) in Myanmar, which has been providing free ambulance services and emergency medical care for the community in Yangon City. Based on a qualitative case study approach using in-depth interviews, document analysis and social media observations, my research found that the YRO, as a voluntary civil society organization, is unique in its relations with the community, the state and other third sector organizations (such as international NGOs) and these relations undoubtedly contribute to community resilience.