In 2021, Myanmar’s military orchestrated a coup, halting democratic progress and imprisoning much of the civilian leadership. Fast forward three years, and the nation is on the verge of collapse. Various insurgent groups, including those fighting for democracy and ethnic militias, are engaged in fierce battles with the junta’s forces. The death toll is staggering, with millions displaced.
Currently, the resistance holds control over more than half of Myanmar’s territory
Source: Special Advisory Council for Myanmar (SAC-M)
The ongoing conflict in Myanmar, spanning forests and towns, receives far less global attention compared to other hotspots like Ukraine and Gaza. Once seen as a beacon of hope for transitioning from military rule to democracy, Myanmar’s reality today is one of military oppression and civil war. The lawlessness in conflict zones has even facilitated transnational criminal activities, with Myanmar serving as a hub for illicit operations that extend worldwide.
Soldiers from the 8th Battalion of the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force, an insurgent group, at their graduation ceremony in Karenni State in February.
Adam Ferguson for The New York Times
What sparked the civil war in Myanmar?
In response to the military coup, widespread peaceful protests erupted, only to be met with brutal repression by Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing’s junta. Pro-democracy factions, along with long-standing ethnic militias, took up arms to resist the regime’s tyranny.
The roots of Myanmar’s turmoil date back to its independence from British rule in 1948. Ethnic minorities in border regions have endured decades of conflict, seeking autonomy and liberation from military oppression.
Despite a brief period of civilian governance under Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, life did not significantly improve for many ethnic groups. Following her party’s electoral victory in 2020, the military seized power once again.
Decades of political unrest in Myanmar
The shared goal of ousting the junta has united pro-democracy and ethnic militias, resulting in substantial territorial gains against the military. Their recent victory in capturing a key border town marks a significant milestone in their resistance efforts.
Who are the key players in the fight against the Myanmar military?
A multitude of pro-democracy militias, ethnic armies, and local defense groups are actively engaged in combat. The diverse array of resistance forces battling the junta has rendered Myanmar one of the most fragmented nations globally, with…
2024-04-19 23:14:57
Originally published on www.nytimes.com