"Since the end of the Cold War there has been increased recognition of non-traditional security threats, such as drug trafficking, as contributors to instability within and amongst states. Myanmar (formerly Burma), the hub of the ‘Golden Triangle’ drug trade, has been a state in constant conflict since its independence in 1948. Using the theoretical framework of human security, this thesis analyses the impact of the drug trade on both Myanmar’s society and its transnational impacts. First, this thesis examines the extent to which the drug trade in Myanmar permeates to other states through porous borders creating a situation of transnational human insecurity. Secondly, Myanmar’s current democratic transition is examined to determine how the state of Myanmar is undergoing changes in its state- building process. Finally, these two themes are intersected to demonstrate how illicit narcotics trafficking are hampering Myanmar’s transition towards a liberal democracy. This thesis provides new insight into the problems posed by transnational narcotics trafficking and human insecurity to the democratisation process..."