Myanmar Spring Chronicle – February 28 Perspective
MoeMaKa, March 1, 2025
Myanmar: One of the Worst Countries for Human Rights
According to the United Nations, which monitors and reports on global human rights conditions, social and economic developments, and humanitarian crises, Myanmar is currently among the worst countries in the world for human rights violations.
The significance of this statement stems from the fact that while the UN may not hold significant influence over global conflicts, environmental destruction, or climate change, it still plays a role in documenting and publishing reports on human rights abuses, poverty, and armed conflicts.
Myanmar’s Deteriorating Human Rights Situation
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk reported that Myanmar’s civilians continue to face displacement due to armed conflicts, economic collapse, and widespread suffering. Since the military coup, 2024 has been the deadliest year yet, with around 15 million people experiencing hunger and 2 million on the brink of famine. The military’s relentless airstrikes have indiscriminately targeted monasteries, pagodas, hospitals, schools, and refugee camps, resulting in numerous civilian casualties.
Additionally, the military conscription law has exacerbated the nationwide crisis, subjecting people to human trafficking, exploitation, and extortion. Many are forced to choose between fleeing illegally to neighboring countries, joining the military, or paying exorbitant bribes to avoid conscription. Those who attempt to escape conscription often find themselves arrested and forcibly drafted into the military upon deportation.
The Hope for Resistance and Federal Democracy
In the face of these dire conditions, some political and armed resistance groups express hope that victory is within reach. They call for accelerated support to hasten the revolution and establish a Federal Democratic Union. Meanwhile, ethnic armed groups continue to seize and govern territories in states such as Rakhine, Ta’ang, Kokang, and Karenni, though they still face military airstrikes, economic blockades, and restricted access to essential supplies.
Despite gaining territorial control, these regions remain under immense pressure, with exorbitant inflation and financial instability impacting the lives of civilians. Many have been forced to flee their homes, adding to the growing number of internally displaced persons.
An Escalating Conflict in 2025
The ongoing human rights crisis is a direct consequence of the military conflict, and 2024 has been one of the most intense years of warfare since the coup. If the current trajectory continues, 2025 may bring an even more severe humanitarian and military crisis.