The situation in Myanmar remains bleak, with a civil war raged on despite international pressure and four years after the military seized power from an elected civilian government. The military government has faced criticism for its handling of the crisis, which has led to widespread poverty, economic disarray, and human rights abuses.
According to the UN Development Program, nearly half the population in Myanmar lives in poverty, while the economy is struggling. The U.N. Human Rights Office reported a significant increase in violence against civilians last year, resulting in the highest civilian death toll since the army’s takeover.
The military has responded with retaliatory airstrikes and artillery shelling on civilians, forced thousands of young people into military service, and conducted arbitrary arrests and prosecutions. The situation has led to mass displacement and denied access to humanitarians, even during natural disasters.
Major world powers, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland, have condemned the military takeover in a joint statement, calling for the release of ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners. They also expressed concern over increased cross-border crime, online scam operations, and broader instability.
The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners reported that at least 6,239 people were killed and 28,444 arrested since the takeover. The actual death toll is likely to be higher due to limited reporting.
Analysts believe Myanmar’s current situation is at its worst, with peace and development being pushed back. The military has suffered significant battlefield defeats in recent months, losing control over parts of the country to ethnic rebel groups.
The government is pushing for an election, which it promises to hold this year. However, critics argue that the election would not be free or fair due to curtailed civil rights and imprisoned opponents. The UN human rights chief described the situation as “deeply distressing,” citing expansion of atrocities and violence despite the military’s waning grip on power.
The international community is urging for a peaceful resolution, dismissing plans for an election that have been criticized as fraudulent.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/myanmar-military-takeover-4-years-anniversary-0030ff72bca0acaaac6ab27937371324