Four Years Since the Military Coup

Myanmar Spring Chronicle – February 1 Perspective
MoeMaKa, February 2, 2025

Four Years Since the Military Coup

As Myanmar reaches the fourth anniversary of the military coup, a review of the country’s political, economic, social, and educational conditions reveals widespread destruction, economic downturn, insecurity in towns and villages, and mass displacement. Many have fled the country, seeking refuge and employment in neighboring and third countries.

One might question whether the past four years have been entirely negative. While some progress has been made, its scale, impact, and long-term potential are insufficient to counteract the prevailing deterioration and devastation. Thus, the focus remains on the overwhelming decline.

Political Deterioration

The coup itself represents the primary political decline, as military rule replaced civilian governance. The elected government was overthrown, and political disputes that were previously resolved through dialogue have turned into armed conflicts. A second civil war, unprecedented in intensity since Myanmar’s independence seven decades ago, has erupted.

Comparing the past four years to the civil war from 1949 to 1952, the death toll and destruction may not yet surpass the first civil war, but the scale of devastation is similar. The country remains trapped in conflict, unable to move forward or bring the war to an end.

Violence continues, with airstrikes, massacres, and widespread destruction of homes. Military funding remains available, sustaining the war. As people lose their livelihoods, they exhaust their resources to escape danger, while natural resources are being extracted without restrictions to finance military operations.

Economic Collapse

In the first two years, major foreign investors withdrew from Myanmar, and new investments dwindled. As a result, job opportunities have become increasingly scarce. Trade and commerce have suffered due to the war, while garment and manufacturing jobs have been severely impacted by power shortages, inflation, and forced military conscription of young workers.

The Myanmar kyat has significantly depreciated, affecting production and trade. Consumers bear the brunt of inflation, struggling to afford essentials like medicine and cooking oil, which are in short supply due to foreign exchange restrictions and transportation difficulties. The economy is not only stagnant but regressing, with millions falling into poverty and requiring urgent humanitarian assistance, as reported by the United Nations.

Lawlessness and Insecurity

Over the past four years, the rule of law has steadily deteriorated. Crimes such as robberies, killings, and sexual violence have become daily occurrences. Armed robberies targeting banks, gold shops, and stores are widespread. Law enforcement, now primarily serving the military regime’s interests, no longer protects the public. In some areas, criminals operate with impunity as authorities focus on suppressing political dissent.

Education in Ruins

Hundreds of thousands—possibly millions—of children have lost access to formal education. Schools remain closed in conflict zones, and makeshift community schools have become the alternative. Many school buildings have been destroyed in airstrikes. Tens of thousands of educators joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), causing a collapse in the formal education system. Even in cities with minimal fighting, schools lack adequate staff and infrastructure, and public trust in the education system has eroded.

Conscription and the Future of Youth

In early 2024, the military regime implemented a mandatory conscription law, forcing many young people to flee the country—legally or illegally. This has led to a loss of human capital and educational opportunities, further exacerbating long-term socio-economic challenges. Some believe the law has driven more youth to join the resistance, but ultimately, it has jeopardized the future of an entire generation.

Conclusion

The past four years have seen an undeniable decline in Myanmar’s political, economic, and social landscape. The military coup remains the root cause of the crisis, and escaping this dire situation remains the nation’s greatest challenge.

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