Myanmar's Bitter Civil War Rages On Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Six months into the opposition forces' offensive against Myanmar's military government, massive gains have been made, but civilian casualties are rising sharply. The conflict, which began in 1948, has intensified since the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy. In October 2023, fighting escalated further when several armed resistance groups formed an alliance and launched coordinated attacks against the junta forces, successfully clearing the Tatmadaw (Burmese government army) from positions around the country.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict in Myanmar has significant implications for regional stability and global politics, as it is fueled by competing interests of major powers like the US and China. The humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict also raises questions about the international community's response to such crises and its ability to protect vulnerable populations.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 2.7 million people, primarily from the country's 135 ethnic minorities, becoming internally displaced persons (IDPs) or seeking refuge in other countries, particularly Thailand and Bangladesh. Nearly one-third of these individuals have been displaced since the October offensive began. IDP camps face severe shortages of food, medicine, and even water due to the Burmese government's restrictions on international aid. These camps lack protection from the UN or the international community, leaving them vulnerable to regular bombing by the Burmese army.

Shan State, which shares borders with Thailand and China, has become a focal point of intense fighting, resulting in the largest displacements of people. The region has significant Chinese investment, making it a crucial area of contention. Farming within the IDP camps is nearly impossible, and with no job opportunities nearby, families are left to endure hunger and uncertainty. Some IDP camps are situated close enough to the Thai border that family members may attempt to sneak into Thailand illegally to find work in construction or agriculture, intending to send money back home. However, undocumented workers often fall victim to human trafficking, sex trafficking, and exploitation, facing low wages and irregular employment.

Lung Lao, a 56-year-old Shan man, and his wife, Pa Nang, aged 52, recently arrived in a makeshift camp in Thailand, fleeing their hometown due to pressure from different armed groups. "The soldiers warned that if I did not send my son to the army, the entire family would face arrest," Lung Lao recounted. Injuries.

In response to the intensified fighting, the Burmese government has instituted draconian conscription laws, even barring military-age men from leaving the country. Ethnic minorities have been particularly targeted, with those residing in Burman-controlled areas or studying and working in large cities like Yangon being apprehended and compelled to join the army. The Shan State Army (SSA), a powerful ethnic armed group, has also instituted conscription, driving many to flee their homes.

The conflict in Myanmar continues to escalate, with both sides claiming heavy tolls. At least 1,015 civilian deaths have been documented from November 1 through May 1, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, with a total of 4,962 civilians killed since the military took power three years ago. As the military government fights to maintain power amidst see-sawing battles and psychological warfare, the humanitarian crisis deepens, leaving millions displaced and in desperate need of aid.

Key Takeaways

• Myanmar's conflict has intensified since 2021 coup, with rising civilian casualties.
• 2.7 million people, mostly ethnic minorities, are internally displaced or refugees.
• IDP camps face severe shortages of food, medicine, and water due to government restrictions.
• Shan State is a focal point of intense fighting, with significant Chinese investment.
• At least 1,015 civilian deaths documented from Nov 1 to May 1, with 4,962 killed since 2021.