Myanmar Spring Chronicle – August 1 Scene
(Moemaka) August 2, 2024
Tragic Civilian Experiences Amidst the War
Between successive battles, civilians are being fatally shot, tortured, and killed. They are being deliberately targeted to weaken the enemy’s military advantage. Food, supplies, and medicine are being cut off, homes are being destroyed, and properties are being looted. While some of these actions may occur without intent, many are deliberate, and the resulting crimes are numerous.
Documenting these events may be seen as anti-war or pro-peace. The intention behind this documentation is to hold those accountable for committing military crimes, whether they are armed group members, commanders, or supporters. Attacking military targets and supply routes during a war is not a crime, but targeting civilians, hospitals, schools, religious buildings, and homes violates international agreements. Armed groups must be aware of this.
Whether or not war crimes are prosecuted depends on the political and military power dynamics. However, over time, when viewed independently, these events will be documented in history.
Current conflicts, such as the Ukraine war and the Gaza conflict, show that not all war crimes are prosecuted. Russian military crimes and Israel’s attacks on civilians in Gaza remain unpunished.
In Myanmar, wars have caused village burnings, civilian deaths, and the destruction of homes and properties, especially in regions like Sagaing, Magway, Chin State, and parts of Mandalay. Most of these acts are committed by the military council’s armed forces, though some PDF groups have also targeted the families of local “Pyithu Sitt” & “Pyu Saw Htee” militia members backed by Myanmar’s Military and those in the military’s backed civilians.
Tragic incidents in Sagaing, Magway, and Mandalay include civilian deaths, property loss, and suffering documented by media and social networks, causing widespread distress even among those who don’t experience them firsthand.
Recently, clashes led by the MNDAA in Northern Shan State near Lashio have worsened conditions for residents. These battles are more severe than previous conflicts, causing increased anxiety and danger for the civilian population.
Civilians, who are not involved in the conflict, suffer because they cannot easily escape their homes and livelihoods. Some have stayed behind due to their connections to their homes and communities, while others couldn’t afford to leave as prices for escaping the conflict rose.
Since the beginning of July, the bombardment in Lashio has killed dozens, and the situation has deteriorated, with bodies lying in the streets and dogs eating the remains. Humanitarian groups have also had to flee, leaving the city devastated.
The city of over 300,000 residents, with its diverse population and economic significance, has suffered immense destruction and civilian casualties in just over a month.
Media outlets are unable to accurately report or document these tragedies due to the challenging conditions. While news headlines focus on the battles and conquests, the civilian toll and the extent of their suffering are often overlooked.