Since the military coup on February 1, 2021, Myanmar has been plunged into turmoil. The overthrow of the democratically elected government, led by Aung San Suu Kyi, by the Tatmadaw (Myanmar’s military) has led to widespread protests, violent crackdowns, and escalating conflicts with ethnic minority groups. The country, once on a fragile path toward democracy, now finds itself in the grip of severe repression and violence.
The Coup and Its Immediate Aftermath
The military justified the coup by alleging widespread fraud in the November 2020 general elections, which Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won by a landslide. However, independent observers found no evidence of significant irregularities. The coup sparked immediate and massive protests across the country, as citizens took to the streets demanding the restoration of democracy.
Escalation of Violence
The initial protests were largely peaceful, but the military's response was brutal. Security forces used live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas against unarmed protesters. According to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), as of mid-2024, over 3,000 civilians have been killed, and more than 20,000 have been arrested since the coup.
- Crackdown on Protests: Cities like Yangon and Mandalay have seen some of the worst violence. Security forces have fired indiscriminately into crowds, conducted night raids, and detained thousands, often subjecting them to torture and inhumane treatment.
- Targeting of Medics and Journalists: The military has also targeted healthcare workers and journalists. Medics providing care to injured protesters have been arrested, and media outlets critical of the junta have been shut down. Many journalists have been detained, and independent reporting has become extremely dangerous.
The Plight of Ethnic Groups
Myanmar is home to numerous ethnic groups, many of which have long-standing grievances against the central government and military. The coup has intensified these conflicts, with several ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) resuming or escalating their armed resistance against the Tatmadaw.
Renewed Ethnic Conflicts
- Kachin and Shan States: In the northern regions, groups like the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and Shan State Army (SSA) have increased their attacks on military positions. The Tatmadaw has responded with heavy artillery and airstrikes, leading to significant civilian casualties and displacement.
- Karen and Karenni States: In the east, the Karen National Union (KNU) and Karenni Army have also stepped up their resistance. The military has launched retaliatory attacks, displacing tens of thousands of people into neighbouring Thailand.
The Rohingya Crisis
The Rohingya, a Muslim minority group in Rakhine State, have faced decades of persecution, culminating in a brutal military crackdown in 2017 that the United Nations has described as ethnic cleansing. Since the coup, conditions for the remaining Rohingya in Myanmar have further deteriorated. They continue to face severe restrictions on movement, lack of access to healthcare and education, and ongoing violence.
Humanitarian Impact
The escalating conflict has created a dire humanitarian situation:
- Displacement: According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 1.5 million people have been internally displaced since the coup. Many are living in makeshift camps with limited access to food, clean water, and healthcare.
- Food Insecurity: The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that nearly half of Myanmar's population could be living in poverty by the end of 2024, with millions facing acute food insecurity due to the conflict and economic collapse.
- Healthcare Crisis: The healthcare system, already strained by the COVID-19 pandemic, is on the brink of collapse. Many hospitals have been occupied by the military or are non-functional, and there is a severe shortage of medical supplies and personnel.
International Response
The international community has condemned the military coup and subsequent violence, but actions have been limited:
- Sanctions: The United States, European Union, and other countries have imposed targeted sanctions on Myanmar's military leaders and entities. However, these measures have had limited impact on the ground.
- Diplomatic Efforts: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has attempted to mediate, but its efforts have been largely ineffective. The junta has shown little willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.
- Humanitarian Aid: International organisations continue to provide humanitarian aid, but access remains a significant challenge due to security concerns and bureaucratic obstacles imposed by the military regime.
The Path Forward
The situation in Myanmar remains dire, with no clear resolution in sight. The ongoing violence, humanitarian crisis, and lack of effective international intervention pose significant challenges to peace and stability. Efforts to support the people of Myanmar, both through humanitarian aid and diplomatic pressure, are crucial in the face of this escalating conflict.
In conclusion, the aftermath of the military coup in Myanmar has been marked by severe violence against protesters and ethnic groups, leading to widespread suffering and displacement. The international community's response, though vocal, has yet to bring about meaningful change. As the conflict continues, the focus must remain on supporting the victims and pushing for a peaceful resolution to this devastating crisis.