It’s all still pretty new for Burma, this democracy stuff. Indeed many would even say using the term “democratic” remains a generous bestowment on the country’s quasi-civilian government. Nonetheless, the country has not seen this level of freedom in more than 50 years, and the Nov. 8 general election will prove to be a crucial test of the country’s ongoing democratic reformation.

In recent months, voter education efforts have been launched by political parties, the Union Election Commission (UEC) and civil society groups. Here, The Irrawaddy does its part to help foster an informed electorate.