The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) released its latest report on the increasing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar due to the escalation of fighting.^[1] The report states that the number of displaced people has exceeded one million for the first time. The report further highlights the economic and social crisis, such as increasing prices of essential commodities, the coming of monsoon season, and the lack of funding for relief efforts.

Political and Domestic Crisis

Political analyst Ye Myo Hein published a report, “One year On: The Momentum of Myanmar’s Armed Rebellion”, which reported that clashes and fighting continue in 266 townships out of the 330 townships in Myanmar. However, the number and magnitude of clashes may vary from place to place. ^[2] The incidents of fighting have increased, especially in Sagaing, Chin and Rakhine states.^[3] Clashes are also reported in Shan State, and the military has also extended the deadline for the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) to withdraw from three camps in southern Shan State.^[4]

Following the clashes and in reaction to the detainment of military troops, the military detained several people in Chin State’s Paletwa Township for interrogation. The military has also restricted water transport between Paletwa and Kyauktaw in Rakhine State. It was also reported that a submarine and other navy vessels arrived at Danyawaddy naval base in Kyaukphyu Township. ^[5] There are also reports that over 100 soldiers have defected from the Myanmar military to the Arakan Army (AA) since last year’s coup. ^[6] Conversely, pro-military groups have also been carrying out bloody attacks, primarily targeting those opposed to last year’s coup.

On 11 June, the military asked resistance fighters to surrender and return to civilian lives, saying they would be “welcomed” to rejoin society. However, the PDFs and other resistance fighters have rejected the proposal to lay down arms and join them.^[7] Further, the acting president of Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG), Duwa Lashi La, called for an escalation in the fight against the military to wipe out the military dictatorship. He also called for people to prepare to put an end to the election planned by the junta for 2023.^[8]

During the month, the military announced that Aung San Suu Kyi had been transferred to Naypyidaw Prison. Myanmar’s National League for Democracy (NLD) condemned the decision citing poor conditions and lack of access to health care at the facility. She has been charged in 19 cases since her arrest and sentenced to 11 years in prison for six of them.^[9] Further, the military also announced that it would go ahead with the prosecution of the Australian economics professor Sean Turnell for breaching the Official Secrets Act. Before the coup, he worked as an economic policy advisor to Aung San Suu Kyi. On the anniversary of his arrest, the Australian government called for his immediate release.^[10]

Furthermore, the military announced that it would execute two opposition political activists, Ko Jimmy and Phyo Zayar Thaw, for treason and terrorism. Subsequently, the UN and many western nations decried the decision and urged the military to drop the charges.^[11] Even Cambodia’s Prime Minister urged the military to reconsider the death sentence.^[12] However, the military regime condemned the UN and various Western governments for their criticisms. It defended the sentences, saying that the pair “were proved to be masterminds of orchestrating full-scale terrorist attacks against innocent civilians to instill fear and disrupt peace and stability.”^[13]

Economic and Social Crisis

Despite the continuing humanitarian crisis, the military during the month awarded more than 1.32 billion kyats (over USD 700,000) to Myanmar athletes who won medals at the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam in May. The military chief also held a separate event for military personnel among the medalists to honour them. On the other hand, the NUG launched its digital currency, Digital Myanmar Kyat or DMMK, which will be available through its mobile payment system. The currency will have its value linked to the Kyat and can be used in the country and abroad through NUGPay. Currently, the NUGPay payment system is available in Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States. ^[14]

The teachers in Myanmar continue to serve the Civil Disobedience Movement. Despite the call to reopen the schools, the teachers refused to go back to the schools. Only 2,960 teachers have so far contacted the regime about returning. At the same time, the NUG is running virtual and physical classrooms with the help of striking teachers.^[15] The military also ordered the closure of rice warehouses and restricted sales of food in Palaw Township.^[16]

Further, on 19 June, Duwa Lashi La during the round table on “End Sexual Violence on the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict”, stated that they had evidence that the military was committing sexual violence against women and children. NUG has documented 49 women, 20 youth, two men and one LGBT person brutally tortured and gang-raped by regime soldiers. Also, evidence suggests that women, children and men are used as human shields during battles.^[17] In addition, Tom Andrews, UN special reporter on human rights in Myanmar, stated that the military attacks on children are “crimes against humanity and war crimes”. It said that since the coup, the military had killed at least 142 children, around 250,000 children displaced and over 1,400 detained without reason.^[18]

As a result of the crisis, the OCHA report states that around 40,200 people have fled to neighbouring countries, and more than 12,700 “civilian properties” are estimated to have been destroyed. However, the humanitarian aid reached only 2.6 million people in Myanmar or approximately 41 per cent of the 6.2 million people targeted. Also, concerns are raised as the Humanitarian Response Plan has received only 10 per cent of funding this year.

International Responses

On 21-22 June, Cambodia hosted the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting with the participation of Myanmar’s Minister of Defence delegation. Following the meeting, a joint declaration included a statement of support for the five-point consensus. Malaysia’s defence ministry called the meeting useful but said in a statement that the attendance of the military’s defence minister does not mean Malaysia recognises Myanmar’s ruling military council as the country’s valid government. However, many rights groups criticised the conduct of the meeting. ^[19] On 29 June, the ASEAN Special Envoy on Myanmar, Prak Sokhonn, started his second official visit to follow up on the country’s peace plan and humanitarian assistance. The visit aimed at meeting with all stakeholders; however, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing stated that the envoy would not meet Suu Kyi or U Win Myint. ^[20]

During the month, Bangladesh and Myanmar held virtual discussions on issues related to the voluntary and sustainable repatriation of the Rohingya. This was the fifth meeting of the Joint Working Group (JWG), with Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Myanmar Chan Aye. As a result, both sides agreed to work on addressing verification-related problems and holding regular meetings of the JWG and technical working group for the early commencement of repatriation. ^[21]

Further, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) called on the Thailand government to provide rescued Rohingya asylum seekers with assistance and immediate access to procedures to determine their refugee status. On 4 June 2022, the Thai navy detained 59 Rohingya from Myanmar who was stranded on Koh Dong Island in southern Thailand. Thailand treats Rohingya arriving at the border as “illegal immigrants” and detains them.^[22]

India in Myanmar

During the month, a vacuum was created in the Taga areas of Sagaing as the military left the region, which it had captured after the 2019 Operation Sunrise with the Indian army. The operation led to the arrest of dozens of insurgent cadres, including seven top functionaries, thereby forcing the insurgents to leave the area. According to analysts, Taga is a crucial place for Indian-origin insurgent groups to get arms from China. Moreover, it is also essential for the Myanmar Army to control the Kachin Independent Organisation (KIO) and its armed wing, Kachin Independent Army (KIO). Pallav Bhattacharya, former Special Director General of the Special Branch of Assam Police, stated that withdrawing Myanmar military troops is conducive to militant activities in Northeast India.^[23]

Further, India did not invite the military’s foreign minister to the upcoming Special India-ASEAN foreign ministers meeting celebrating the 30th Anniversary of relationship. According to India’s The Economic Times, ASEAN has taken the position that Myanmar should be engaged at a nonpolitical level in multilateral forums.^[24] Since 2018, there has been a Free Movement Regime between India and Myanmar, which has led to sometimes illegal activities at the border. In Manipur’s Churachandpur district, eighty illegal immigrants from Myanmar were apprehended. ^[25]

Progress has also been made in the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport (KMMTT) project. The Indian government has recently appointed IRCON as implementing and executing agency for expediting the work. The agency can now hire local Burmese contractors to construct the pending stretch of 109 km road between Paletwa (Myanmar) and Zorinpui (Mizoram). This stretch of road is in Chin State, and the post-military coup faces challenges in terms of safety and security. ^[26]

Way Forward

Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, during the 50th Session of the Human Rights Council, gave an update on Myanmar and stated that despite losing optimism, they still hope for a democratic transition.^[27] The people of Myanmar are suffering from devastating consequences and are trapped in a cycle of poverty and displacement, human rights violations and abuses. Since February 2021, around 1900 killings by the military have been reported. In addition, the economic crisis has led to the decline in the national currency and prices of essential goods have surged. The flow of information is also limited with numerous internet shutdowns, and there has been harassment and prosecution of journalists and individuals reporting on human rights. The solution to the current crisis lies in the involvement of all stakeholders for effective decision-making and peace in the country.

Endnotes :

^[1] https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/un-report-over-1-million-displaced-in-myanmar-amid-violence/2022/06/02/30977470-e25f-11ec-ae64-6b23e5155b62_story.html
^[2] Ye Myo Hein, the executive director of the Tagaung Institute of Political Studies and a public policy fellow with the Woodrow Wilson International Center’s Asia Program, published a research report: “One Year On: The Momentum of Myanmar’s Armed Rebellion.” https://www.irrawaddy.com/in-person/interview/military-is-weaker-since-coup-and-momentum-is-with-the-armed-resistance.html
^[3] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/nearly-90-myanmar-junta-soldiers-killed-in-clashes-with-resistance-in-north.html
^[4] https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/burma-army-extends-deadline-sspp-southern-shan-state https://www.myanmar-now.org/en/news/local-leader-of-myanmar-militarys-proxy-party-shot-dead-in-southern-shan-state
^[5] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-detains-villagers-following-clash-with-arakan-army-in-chin-state.html
^[6] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/over-100-junta-soldiers-defect-to-arakan-army-in-western-myanmar.html
^[7] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-resistance-rejects-junta-calls-to-surrender.html
^[8] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/nug-acting-president-calls-for-people-to-put-an-end-to-juntas-planned-election.html
^[9] https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/transfer-06282022191446.html
^[10] https://thediplomat.com/2022/06/myanmar-junta-to-move-forward-with-trial-of-australian-economist/
^[11] https://thediplomat.com/2022/06/myanmar-junta-to-carry-out-death-sentences-against-activist-nld-lawmaker/
^[12] https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Myanmar-Crisis/Cambodia-s-Hun-Sen-asks-Myanmar-to-call-off-political-executions
^[13] https://thediplomat.com/2022/06/myanmar-military-junta-says-criticisms-of-executions-irresponsible-and-reckless/
^[14] https://www.laprensalatina.com/parallel-government-in-myanmar-creates-own-digital-currency/
^[15] https://www.irrawaddy.com/specials/junta-watch/junta-watch-defying-the-world-on-executions-splashing-cash-while-urging-frugality-and-more.html
^[16] https://www.mizzima.com/article/junta-restricts-food-sales-tanintharyis-palaw-township
^[17] https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/nug-burma-army-using-rape-weapon-war
^[18] https://www.persecution.org/2022/06/19/myanmars-military-targeting-children/
^[19] https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501098895/cambodian-defence-minister-myanmar-defence-minister-holds-bilateral-talks/
https://apnews.com/article/asia-myanmar-global-trade-19a0dddfa8eae60443c9b5fd9914235e
^[20] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/asean-special-envoy-on-second-visit-to-myanmar-no-meeting-with-suu-kyi.html
^[21]https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/2022/06/14/rohingyas-dhaka-asks-nay-pyi-taw-to-expedite-verification-for-early-repatriation
^[22] https://www.mizzima.com/article/hrw-calls-thailand-allow-rohingya-access-asylum
^[23] The Army carried out the operation against North-East insurgent groups. In Taga, Yung Aung-led National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-K), Paresh Baruah-led United Liberation Front of Assam-Independent (ULFA-I), B Swaraigra-led National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), Jeevan Singha Kuch-led Kamatapur Liberation Organisation (KLO), IK Sangbijit-led People’s Democratic Council for Karbi Longri (PDCK) and other Manipur-based insurgent groups operated their headquarters (HQs) with the help of Naga rebel group NSCN-K. https://www.news18.com/news/india/myanmar-army-abandons-taga-headquarters-of-northeast-insurgent-groups-after-three-years-5450287.html
^[24] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-not-invited-to-india-meeting-with-asean-foreign-ministers.html
^[25] https://www.theweek.in/wire-updates/national/2022/06/28/cal28-mn-immigrants-myanmar.html
^[26] https://www.awamkasach.com/india-myanmar-kaladan-project-s-completion-hangs-in-limbo/
^[27] https://www.ohchr.org/en/statements/2022/06/50th-session-human-rights-council-oral-update-myanmar

The country is reeling under political and economic crisis. The military initiated peace talks during the month in its efforts to meet the Ethnic Armed Organisations, but most of the armed groups that have been active in the fight with the military since the coup have refused participation. The National Unity Government (NUG), on the other hand, marked the celebration of the first anniversary of the People Defence Forces (PDF) on 05 May; they also called out to the international community to support them with funds and arms. Internationally, the United States-ASEAN summit was a landmark event, and the Malaysian Foreign Minister called upon the Myanmar military leaders for taking sufficient steps to resolve the crisis.

Economic Conditions

Myanmar is facing fuel shortages partly because of the Central Bank of Myanmar’s change in regulations in April 2022 and partly because of the regime’s orders that the fuel will be sold at fixed rates. The Central Bank of Myanmar announced that foreign earnings must be deposited with licensed banks and exchanged for kyats within one working day at the official rate. The restricted access to dollars has blocked fuel imports.^[1]

The cash shortage is also starkly visible as the military regime has not been able to pay dividends from its businesses since the 2021 coup. The dividends are usually paid at the end of the financial year. It’s mandatory for all ranks to buy MEHL shares. For instance, a captain is required to invest 3 million kyats in MEHL and lower ranks 1.5 million kyats. In the past year, MEHL profits have tumbled amid boycotts of beer and cigarettes, the main income sources.^[2]

Myanmar’s military regime has cancelled tenders invited under the previous National League for Democracy (NLD) government for 26 solar power projects. Chinese companies and their consortia won the bids to build 28 out of the 29 plants, but the military cancelled the tenders due to repeatedly post poking of signing power purchase agreements. However, only three solar projects are being implemented, and Chinese firms have stalled on the other projects. Just before the blacklisting of firms, the electricity and energy Minister U Aung Than Oo was replaced with U Thaung Han, the former chairman of the Mandalay Electricity Supply Corporation, amid severe power outages in Myanmar.^[3] Further, on 11 May, the military charged Bo Bo Nge, former Central Bank’s deputy governor, with corruption offences. He was arrested on the day of the military coup.^[4] The military has also removed Lt General Than Hlaing as chief of the military’s police force and deputy minister of home affairs, with Major General Zin Min Htet, the military’s Joint Adjutant General, since 2019.

Domestic and Political Situation

During the month, Aung San Suu Kyi was tried in a new corruption case, accusing her of receiving money from Maung Weik in 2019 and 2020. She is charged under the country’s Anti-Corruption Act with up to 15 years in prison and a fine. She has already been sentenced to 11 years imprisonment under different cases of corruption, sedition and violation of coronavirus restrictions. In another case of corruption, she was charged with receiving USD 600,000 and seven gold bars from Phyo Min Thein, the former chief minister of Yangon.^[5]

During the month, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing held the first face-to-face peace talks since the military coup with Yawd Serk, chairman of the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS). Myanmar has 21 ethnic armed organisations, out of which ten have accepted the invitation to the peace talks. But there is scepticism that the talks will do much to advance peacemaking because none of the groups attending are currently in armed conflict with the government. The major ethnic minority groups, such as Kachin Independence Army, the Karenni National Progressive Party and the Chin National Front, currently in armed conflict with the military, have not attended the peace talks.

Regions such as Kachin, Chin, Sagaing and Karen continued to witness clashes. In the first half of the month, regular interceptions by the military were recorded in Chin State. Casualties were reported on both sides. The Chin Defence Forces, on the other hand, claimed success in several clashes with the military. In the Sagaing region, the regime launched air strikes as local resistance forces attacked an army camp in a pro-regime village in the township.^[6] The military has further cut mobile phone service to eight townships in the Sagaing region.^[7] The military has also increased security in Yangon as it remains a hotbed of anti-regime resistance. The military aims to wipe out the urban resistance groups.^[8]

Further, the Karen National Union (KNU) stated that troops engaged in more than 500 clashes with regime forces in May 2022. In the statement released by the Union, they claimed to have killed around 356 junta forces and 194 injured.^[9] During the month, however, the military reclaimed the Maw Khee base. Waw Lay and Maw Khee, in the KNLA’s Brigade 6 territory.^[10] The KNU, on the other hand, is consolidating its control of Kyaukkyi and Mone townships in the eastern Bago Region.^[11] In a march from Hpa-An Township in Kayin (Karen) State to Bilin Township in Mon State, the regime forces used more than 100 civilians as porters and human shields earlier this week.^[12]

Major-General Tun Myat Naing, chief of the Arakan Army (AA) based in Rakhine State, issued a public warning about the prospect of renewed fighting in Rakhine. The military has attempted to counteract the AA with the increasing presence of regime troops inspecting villages and tightening security checks. Further, on 31 May, a submarine arrived at Kyauk Phyu Township.^[13] The regime has also again started detaining and interrogating people it suspects of having ties to the AA, which was done before the 2020 ceasefire. The AA has also not responded to the regime’s proposal for peace talks. ^[14] The fight erupted between the military and AA near Abaung Thar village, Chin State.^[15] Further, Major Aye Tun, an AA leader, warned through his social media posts to boycott military council products and not buy homes from the Shwe Yati beach project in Gwa township of Rakhine State.^[16]

Overall, boths ides, the pro-military and anti-military, continued with targeted assassinations of the opposite sides. For instance, local military council members in the Mandalay Region were shot by unidentified gunmen. On the other hand, the pro-junta militia claimed responsibility for slaying opposition party members and threatened to kill journalists and their families. During the month, eight members of the NLD and their supporters were found brutally murdered. However, the military deputy minister of information, Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun stated that the military has no ties to the Thway Thank, the pro-junta militia taking responsibility for the murder. He also accused seven media outlets of being “destructive elements” in Myanmar, including RFA, Khit Thit Media, The Irrawaddy, Mizzima, DVB and The Irrawaddy Times.^[17]

The NUG and PDFs

May 6 marked the PDF anniversary, a paramilitary group formed to protect Myanmar’s civilians against military forces. The NUG Ministry of Defense said the PDF has expanded to 257 units, with 80,000 and 100,000 PDF troops spread across 250 townships and maintains links with more than 400 local guerrilla groups. A statement claimed that around USD 30 million was spent on arms training and military equipment for the PDF since its formation.^[18] However, PDFs are facing cash and arms shortages. Four local PDFs based in Sagaing publicly reported that they were struggling with insufficient arms and other logistics issues. These groups have so far relied on donations from local people.^[19] Under such circumstances, the defence chief of NUG, Yee Mon, called for international help to arm its resistance forces. ^[20] On the other hand, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing urged the United Wa State Party (UWSP) not to supply arms to the PDFs. However, the UWSP liaison officer Nyi Rang denied discussing PDFs or Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at the meeting.^[21]

During the month, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), the legislative body of NUG, enacted its People’s Police Force Law to regulate law enforcement in areas controlled by resistance forces. Under the law, the People’s Police Force will be established under the civilian Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration to upgrade law enforcement from accepting complaints to prosecuting. The ministry has so far received more than 400 complaints against military atrocities against civilians. The CRPH said the law would take legal action against the military leaders who seized power illegally and expose the crimes committed by the regime against civilians.^[22]

The National Unity Government (NUG) also conducted an online meeting with AA to engage with armed groups. The shadow government’s Alliance Relations Committee, its foreign minister Daw Zin Mar Aung and prominent ’88 Generation leader U Min Ko Naing spoke to AA chief Major General Tun Myat Naing and his deputy Brigadier General Nyo Tun Aung. The two sides discussed the political landscape and current situation in Myanmar. However, the AA has avoided direct involvement in armed revolt against the military regime; it supports the PDFs by providing training and weapons.^[23]

International Responses

In yet another move to issue a statement at United Nations Security Council, China and Russia blocked the attempt to push the military leaders to take steps to resolve the crisis and express concern about the violence and humanitarian situation in the country. The proposed statement was drafted by the United Kingdom, which had expressed concern at the “limited progress” in implementing a five-point plan for ending the crisis.^[24]

On 05-06 May, the ASEAN leaders held a meeting in Cambodia to discuss plans to deliver aid to Myanmar. The regime was represented by its Minister for International Cooperation, Ko Ko Hlaing. However, the military blocked the UN Special Envoy for Myanmar, Noeleen Heyzer, from attending the meeting. Though no reason was stated, her exclusion is believed to come after her recent discussions with the parliamentary body of Myanmar’s NUG and its relief and resettlement minister, Dr Win Myat Aye. However, the NUG criticised ASEAN’s decision to provide humanitarian aid to the Myanmar people via the military regime as it flouts the fundamental humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence.^[25]

The United States (US) hosted the two-day US-ASEAN Special Summit. A host of issues were discussed, from COVID to the current situation in Myanmar. Out of the total ten, eight ASEAN leaders attended the summit; the Philippines declined to attend due to the presidential elections, and Myanmar’s military chief, Min Aung Hlaing, was barred from the summit. At the summit, Malaysia slammed the military for refusing to engage with the country’s shadow government, NUG. Instead, the US State Department officials met with the foreign minister of the National Unity Government, Myanmar’s shadow government of deposed leaders and other junta critics working to regain control of the country.

Earlier in the month, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah proposed that ASEAN engage informally with the NUG to discuss humanitarian aid. Still, the regime rejected the remark as “irresponsible and reckless”. Thereby, the Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah called out Myanmar military officials in a series of tweets for failing to honour the Five Point consensus and refusal to allow the United Nations special envoy to attend an ASEAN meeting on humanitarian aid to Myanmar.^[26] He also became the first minister from the ASEAN to publicly meet a NUG minister.

Furthermore, the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen urged Myanmar’s military to allow the ASEAN special envoy to visit and meet deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Hun Sen requested “further cooperation in facilitating the second visit to Myanmar by the ASEAN Chair’s Special Envoy, possibly at the end of May”. He also urged the military chief to release political prisoners, reduce excessive force use and facilitate humanitarian assistance delivery. ^[27] However, during the month, Cambodia organised a three-day meeting of senior defence officials, including Myanmar military representatives. This contrasts with the earlier decisions to exclude military representatives from ASEAN meetings.^[28]

The advocacy groups Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Justice for Myanmar again called on the Government of Japan to cease training Myanmar military officers after it emerged that a Japanese-trained air force commander took part in bombing raids in the country. According to HRW, Japan accepted two cadets and two officers to participate in the training programme in 2021, after the coup. This was followed by a further two cadets and two officers in 2022. ^[29] In the month, Japanese energy conglomerate ENEOS Holdings said it would withdraw from the Yetagun gas project in Myanmar, which has been operational for two decades.^[30] Also, to not legitimise the military regime, the Australian government said it would replace its ambassador to Myanmar, Andrea Faulkner, with a lower-ranked representative. Several western countries have downgraded their diplomatic relations since last year’s coup.^[31]

Way Forward

The Institute for Strategy and Policy (ISP Myanmar) reported that at least 5,646 civilian deaths have occurred since the coup till 10 May 2022.^[32] Given the humanitarian losses and the accompanying economic and political crisis, the military leaders must take steps to bring in all stakeholders and resolve the current situation. The country is sliding back into poverty, and there are cash and fuel shortages. Mainly Sagaing and Chin’s regions are suffering severe casualties in their fight against the military. Internationally, more efforts and concrete steps are required to address the crisis than mere statements.

Endnotes :

^[1] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-fuel-importers-blame-shortages-on-junta-dollar-controls.html
^[2] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/military-owned-corporation-fails-to-pay-dividends-to-myanmar-troops.html
^[3]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-cancels-chinese-backed-solar-power-projects.html
^[4]https://www.centralbanking.com/central-banks/governance/people/7947586/myanmar-junta-brings-charges-against-former-deputy-governor
^[5]https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/myanmars-suu-kyi-charged-bribery-trial-opens-84447854
^[6]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-military-calls-in-air-strikes-to-keep-village-from-falling-to-resistance.html
^[7]https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/phone-05242022160146.html
^[8]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-junta-tightens-security-in-commercial-capital-yangon.html
^[9]https://myanmar-now.org/en/news/resistance-forces-strike-myanmar-army-convoys-on-chin-state-roads
^[10]https://www.myanmar-now.org/en/news/myanmar-military-reclaims-control-of-maw-khee-base-seized-by-karen-forces
^[11]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/ethnic-karen-fighters-take-control-of-lower-myanmar-townships.html
^[12]https://www.myanmar-now.org/en/news/knu-accuses-myanmar-military-of-abducting-civilians-for-use-as-as-human-shields
^[13]https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/warships-06022022102800.html
^[14]https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/analysis/military-tensions-rise-in-western-myanmar-as-arakan-army-chief-warns-regime.html
^[15]https://www.narinjara.com/news/detail/62919b0721f2d423422dc735
^[16]https://www.narinjara.com/news/detail/628878df21f2d423422dc720
^[17]https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/threats-05022022233600.html
^[18]https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/anniversary-05112022202816.html
^[19]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/we-need-guns-myanmar-resistance-forces-tell-shadow-govt.html
^[20] https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-resistance-urges-west-provide-arms-fight-against-junta-2022-05-17/
^[21] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/clashes-expected-in-chin-state-as-junta-deploys-more-troops-to-western-myanmar.html
^[22]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmars-civilian-government-passes-police-law-for-its-controlled-areas.html
^[23]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmars-civilian-government-holds-talks-with-arakan-army.html
^[24] https://www.dw.com/en/china-russia-reportedly-block-un-statement-on-myanmar-crisis/a-61961339
^[25]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/aseans-plan-to-deliver-aid-to-myanmar-via-junta-condemned.html
^[26] https://www.eurasiareview.com/13052022-myanmar-crisis-center-stage-at-us-asean-summit/
^[27]https://www.rfa.org/english/news/cambodia/myanmar-talks-05022022220938.html
^28]https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501077177/bucking-the-trend-asean-chair-cambodia-invites-myanmar-junta-reps-for-adsom/
^[29]https://thediplomat.com/2022/05/japan-trained-myanmar-air-force-officer-took-part-in-bombing-raids-activists/
^[30] https://dailytimes.com.pk/929547/japans-eneos-withdraws-from-myanmar-gas-project/
^[31]https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/australia-downgrades-diplomatic-ties-with-myanmar-junta.html
^[32]https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/toll-05172022210115.html

01 February 2022 marks the first anniversary of the military coup. Last year on this day the Myanmar military took over the power in the country and arrested Aung San Suu Kyi and the elected leaders of the National League of Democracy. In the past year following the coup, the military has faced widespread protests and discontent because of its actions. The military has used force and various other tactics to curb the resistance. However, the opposition and resistance continue. Internationally, as the military coup and atrocities continue, countries like the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have imposed further sanctions. The Russian actions against Ukraine received mixed responses in Myanmar, which are discussed in the latter part of the article.

Domestic and Political Situation

On the eve of the first anniversary of the military coup, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing proposed to extend the military rule for another six months, which Myint Swe, the military-appointed president, approved. On 01 February, the country witnessed large scale protests and rallies. A nationwide strike marked the first anniversary of the military seizure of power. The photos and videos of ‘silent strike’ were all over the social media. The streets were emptied and businesses were shut in a show of opposition to the military rule. The people also raised the three fingers resistance salute. At places, bombings were carried out targeting a police station and homes of military officers and other sites. Opposition militants carry out daily hit-and-run guerrilla attacks, while the military generally engages in larger-scale assaults that are blamed for many civilian casualties. ^[1]

To counter these protests and rallies, the military regime organised more than 170 pro-military rallies a week preceding the coup anniversary in 140 towns across Myanmar. The regime also organised sports events, forced shops to open and required people to receive COVID-19 jabs. The regime had earlier warned that anyone who closed their business or shop on the day could face charges carrying sentences of up to life imprisonment, including confiscation of their properties. The military also arrested a few shop owners who notified customers that they would close their businesses on 01 February.^[2]

On the anniversary of the coup, Min Aung Hlaing justified the coup for the protection and promotion of Buddhism. He argued that Buddhism declined under the NLD government and criticised the NLD for banning the Association for the Protection of Race and Religion.^[3] The group is under attack internationally for its hate speech and was banned by the NLD in 2017. They are known internationally for its hate speech against non-Buddhists. Recently, Min Aung Hlaing visited former chair, Ashin Tilawkar Biwonsa and even conferred a religious title on him. He also criticised the NLD government for prohibiting visits to pagodas and religious buildings, which he re-opened recently. The buildings were closed due to COVID-19 restrictions to prevent crowds.

The following day, Min Aung Hlaing held the first cabinet meeting of the year and highlighted the three sectors that would be prioritised in 2022. These are – to improve the economy; set up a genuine, disciplined multi-party democracy through the general election scheduled for 2023; and form an all-inclusive defence system.^[4]

There was also news to dismantle six departments under Myanmar’s police and incorporate the officers into the military to strengthen its fight against the anti-coup resistance movement. These police departments are under the “special departments” of maritime, aviation, tourist, oil field, forestry and highway police forces. The police battalions are combat-trained, and since last year’s coup, they have been involved in crackdowns on protests and clashes with the armed resistance movement. As an institution, Myanmar’s police is part of the Ministry of Home Affairs and under military control as per the 2008 Constitution.

On 08 February, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs, U Wunna Maung Lwin, gave a diplomatic briefing on the recent developments in Myanmar. The Union Minister briefed regarding the formation of the State Administration Council (SAC), transferring three branches of state to the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services and scrutinizing the 2020 electoral process and the SAC’s endeavours to implement a five-point roadmap. He also emphasised establishing friendly relations with foreign nations, Myanmar’s cooperation with the ASEAN countries and Myanmar’s cooperation with the United Nations.

In addition to these, issues regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidents of killings and damages of public buildings and infrastructure by PDF, the seizures of arms and ammunition and notifying of NUG and PDF as terrorist groups to UNCTED, ACCT, ASEANAPOL and INTERPOL, positive cooperation in the fight against terrorism, and implementation of democracy and federalism in the country were discussed. Similar issues were discussed by U Khin Maung Oo, member of the Union Election Commission (UEC), Dr Yin Yin Nwe, Member of Advisory Board of the Chairman of the SAC, Dr Salai Ngun Cung Lian, and Police Brig. Gen. Aung Htay Myint of Myanmar Police Force, Ministry of Home Affairs.^[5]

During the month, attacks and conflicts were noted across the country. For instance, hundreds of houses were burned down by the military in the northwestern Sagaing region. However, the state-run Myanmar Alinn Daily newspaper claimed that houses were burned by members of the opposite resistance defence force. ^[6] The allied KIA and Putao PDF seized a base belonging to a military-aligned militia in Putao, and in response, the military opened fire on the area with helicopters. ^[7] The informal ceasefire between Arakan Army and the military also came under attack as a clash broke out in Arakan State’s Maungdaw Township on 04 February.^[8]

According to a United Nations Spokesperson, around 114 children have been killed by the Myanmar military since the 2021 coup. Recently, the military took a group of civilians, including at least 80 children, in the Sagaing region, hostage for two days. The National Unity Government (NUG) accused the army of a “grave violation” of international law. ^[9] Following the participation of children against the military forces, several parents have posted notices cutting ties with their children. The military has claimed that it would take over the properties of its opponents and arrest people giving shelter to protesters.^[10]

In order to help the local economy, the military is planning to release a digital currency. According to a report from Bloomberg, Major General Zaw Min Tun said rolling out a digital currency would “help improve financial activities in Myanmar”. The digital currency is aimed at supporting payments within Myanmar as well as improving the economy. The country’s shadow government announced in December 2021 that it would recognise Tether (USDT) as an official currency.^[11]

International Responses

The United States imposed new sanctions on Myanmar officials. The measures freeze any assets the listed officials may have in US jurisdictions and bar Americans from doing business with them. Britain and Canada announced similar measures. At the anniversary of the military coup, several Church leaders have renewed their calls on the UK Government to use diplomacy to ensure that democracy is restored in Myanmar.^[12] Further, Myanmar’s shadow government, NUG, stated that it accepted the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to hear allegations that the country committed genocide against Rohingya. However, it urged the ICJ to deal with Myanmar’s permanent representative to the UN, Kyaw Moe Tun. ^[13]

In a move to take down the makeshift tents, Thailand deported the refugees back to the Myanmar side. As a result, more than 3,000 Myanmar refugees are now stranded on the Myanmar side of the Thaung Yin River and are residing in temporary huts. Though many have returned home, some of the 20,000 refugees remain on the Thai side and have received support from residents.^[14]

Australia’s Foreign Minister called for the “immediate release” of economics Professor Sean Turnell, who was detained by Myanmar’s military in February 2021. He was working as an adviser to civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The Australian economist has been charged with violating Myanmar’s official secrets law and faces a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison if found guilty. ^[15]

During the month, Human Rights Watch (HRW) called upon the Japan-based Yokogawa Bridge Corporation to end its partnership with Myanmar military-owned conglomerate, Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC). In March 2014, Yokogawa Bridge Corp., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japanese Yokogawa Bridge Holdings Corp., signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MEC. MEC is owned by Myanmar’s Defence Ministry and is a “direct source of revenue” for Myanmar’s military. However, in April 2021, Yokogawa Bridge Holdings Corp. stated that construction of the bridge had been halted due to the “situation on the ground” and that it would “conduct business that respects human rights.” But the documents for the same have not been revealed.^[16]

Russian actions against Ukraine received mixed responses in the country. The military leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, praised Russia for its actions in a “desire to consolidate Russian sovereignty” and depicted Russia as a force to ensure the balance of power. He also expressed support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, the pro-democracy protestors in Myanmar raised slogans against the Russian actions. In Yangon, activists staged a flash mob protest, shouting anti-regime slogans and waving placards with slogans like “In Solidarity with Ukraine.” In Kachin State, a rally to show their support for Ukraine was held. Further, the NUG said that it condemned the Russian war against Ukraine and its people, adding “Myanmar stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”^[17]

Conclusion

Over the past year, there have been mass protests and armed resistance in the country. The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners verified that the military has killed around 1500 people. In addition, the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that 320,000 people have been internally displaced because of the continued conflict over the last year. The solution to the current crises is bringing all the stakeholders together and holding the military accountable first for its actions.

Endnotes :

^[1]https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/myanmar-takeover-anniversary-marked-strike-intl-concern-82594623
^[2]https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/myanmar-junta-fails-the-sovereignty-test.html
^[3]The group, known as Ma Ba Tha, was formed in 2012 out of the 969 movement, a nationalist campaign that called for a boycott of Muslim-owned businesses, and was rebranded as Ma Ba Tha the following year.
^[4] https://www.mizzima.com/article/myanmar-military-junta-discusses-economy-voting-system-and-controversial-conscription
^[5]https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/union-minister-for-foreign-affairs-briefs-diplomats-and-un-resident-representatives-in-yangon
^[6] https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/myanmar-villagers-army-troops-burned-400-houses-82650389
^[7]https://www.myanmar-now.org/en/news/thousands-of-civilians-displaced-by-military-air-offensive-in-ye-u
^[8] https://www.bnionline.net/en/news/casualties-reported-junta-troops-clash-arakan-army-maungdaw-twsp
^[9] https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-troops-accused-holding-children-hostage-during-clashes-2022-02-28/
^[10] https://thewire.in/world/myanmar-fearing-the-ruling-military-junta-hundreds-of-parents-disown-dissident-children
^[11]https://cointelegraph.com/news/myanmar-s-military-government-considers-launching-digital-currency-report
^[12] https://churchofscotland.org.uk/news-and-events/news/2022/articles/first-anniversary-of-myanmar-military-coup-fresh-calls-for-diplomatic-solution
^[13]https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-shadow-government-drops-objections-icjs-rohingya-genocide-case-2022-02-02/
^[14] https://www.rfa.org/english/news/myanmar/thailand-02012022092914.html
^[15] https://elevenmyanmar.com/news/australia-urges-myanmar-to-free-detained-economist
^[16] https://www.mizzima.com/article/japan-construction-giant-should-end-myanmar-military-partnership-says-ngo
^[17] https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-democracy-activists-hold-rallies-in-support-of-ukraine.html