Myanmar Spring Chronicle – September 16
Published by MoeMaKa on September 17, 2023
Navigating the Difficulties Faced by the People of Myanmar
In the wake of the military coup, a significant portion of Myanmar’s population, including politicians, activists, prominent civil society organizations, critics of the military, media figures, and journalists, has risen in staunch opposition to the military regime. Among them, thousands have already sought refuge in countries such as Thailand, India, and various Western nations, including Australia and the United States. These individuals have embarked on arduous journeys through regions controlled by ethnic armed groups, with some now residing in places like Mae Sot and Chiang Mai, Thailand, actively participating in the anti-coup movement and the campaign to oust the military dictator.
Estimates suggest that there may be tens of thousands or even a few hundred thousand Myanmar citizens who have sought sanctuary in Thailand due to political turmoil, with a smaller number residing in regions under ethnic armed group control.
Meanwhile, within Myanmar’s borders, a population of over 50 million persists, coexisting with military council supporters, Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) advocates, individuals with extreme ethnic and religious views, those involved in the military council’s administrative apparatus, and members of the armed forces, among others.
It’s a perplexing question for many as to why individuals continue to endure such perilous conditions under the junta, where crime runs rampant, especially when considering the available option of seeking refuge elsewhere.
The decision to leave the country may be a swift and uncomplicated one for some, while for others, it remains a formidable choice. Worldwide, many individuals remain steadfast in their resolve to stay, working tirelessly from within the country, bolstered by the hope that it will undergo transformative change.
Several factors contribute to this choice, including the difficulty of departing from one’s family, particularly aging parents, or the sense of moral obligation to remain and work for change from within. In some cases, artists opt to stay rooted in their homeland, aspiring to live happily within their communities while continuing their artistic pursuits. A notable aspect is that residents within the country tend to have a more nuanced understanding of the ongoing situation compared to those abroad. They are intimately familiar with the climate of insecurity, unjust detentions, and the harrowing increase in violence, which includes shootings and killings, alongside the skyrocketing cost of living. The majority face considerable hardships, contrasting with the unjustly empowered few connected to the military dictatorship who enjoy wealth and privilege.
Those residing within Myanmar’s borders persevere in a challenging environment not out of support for the military dictatorship but rather due to their deep connections to their communities, families, and friends. Within this trying context, individuals often find solace in connecting with close friends, engaging in dialogues that provide emotional outlets. Moreover, the artistic community, including painters, musicians, and writers, fosters an atmosphere of mutual encouragement and warmth through exhibitions, book launches, and other events. Importantly, these activities are not aligned with the military junta and do not lend political support to the dictatorial regime. Foreign observers should recognize that local residents, while living under a military dictatorship, continue to find ways to connect, converse, and uplift one another within their communities. Surviving without endorsing or collaborating with the military dictatorship in the face of various dangers requires exceptional strength. Through these connections, independent artists and writers exchange sentiments, encouragement, and support, both emotionally and materially, bolstering their resilience in the midst of adversity.
For those beyond Myanmar’s borders, it is crucial to comprehend and support friends, colleagues, and politicians who unwaveringly uphold their beliefs and principles, even if their perspectives diverge. These individuals steadfastly maintain their integrity and convictions, refusing to compromise for personal gain. It is imperative to remember that local forces play a pivotal role in reshaping the nation’s system, combating various forms of tyranny such as military dictatorship and civilian autocracy, and constructing a federal democratic union. Understanding the emotions and coping mechanisms of the local population remains paramount, emphasizing the indomitable spirit of a people striving for a better future.