Myanmar Spring Chronicle – May 20 Scenes
MoeMaKa, May 21, 2024
International Attention on Rakhine State
Rakhine State in Myanmar is facing unique challenges compared to other regions experiencing armed conflicts. For decades, ethnic and religious tensions have existed between the Muslim Rohingya and the indigenous Rakhine people. The Myanmar military and extremist Buddhists have persecuted the Rohingya, leading to accusations of genocide. This has resulted in sanctions and blacklisting by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Western countries, and the United Nations human rights organizations. During the tenure of the National League for Democracy (NLD) government, Aung San Suu Kyi’s international reputation suffered as she was seen defending these genocidal actions. Consequently, she lost numerous awards and honors.
The current struggle against the military junta has further complicated the ethnic and religious dynamics in Rakhine State. Historically, rulers have exploited these sensitivities to maintain power. For instance, the China-Myanmar conflict in 1967 and subsequent ethnic riots in the 1970s and 1980s were orchestrated to distract from political and economic crises.
Since November 2023, the military council has been clashing with the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine State, fueling ethnic hatred and conflicts. However, it is crucial to address these conflicts responsibly rather than dismissing them as military manipulations. The military has reportedly recruited Rohingya individuals, violating the 1982 citizenship law, and collaborated with groups like ARSA, previously labeled as terrorists, to counter the AA.
The AA must navigate this complex situation carefully. Allegations have emerged of the AA killing five Rohingya villagers in Maungdaw Township on April 17. Additionally, reports suggest that the military council instigated the burning of Rakhine homes and that AA drone attacks injured hundreds of Rohingya. The AA has denied these allegations, inviting international organizations and media to investigate.
The United Nations and human rights organizations have raised concerns about these incidents to prevent further genocide. While the AA has gained control over significant areas in Rakhine State, it must uphold human rights standards and avoid retaliatory actions based on ethnicity and religion.