Panel Discussion: “Why Has Myanmar's Struggle for Democracy Been Ignored?
On February 1st, 2021, the Myanmar military illegally overthrew the democratically elected government and attempted to establish authoritarian rule throughout the country. Although few outside observers gave the people much chance, an earnest resistance soon developed in the form of the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), the National Unity Government (NUG), and the People’s Defense Force (PDF).
It has now been over two years since the military’s attempted coup, and they are nowhere closer to controlling (much less governing) the country than they were on that ill-fated day, due to the united resistance of ordinary Burmese of all ethnicities and backgrounds who have been willing to risk their lives against a professional, Russia-backed military. And yet, while the people’s movement has achieved what so many had dismissed as impossible, they have done it with almost no support from the outside.
Yet it’s not just international organizations and governments that are turning their backs on Myanmar’s plight, but also the media. There was some initial coverage of the coup, as well as the massive protests that took shape immediately following. After that, however, only very sporadic stories have appeared, and usually only to highlight the worst atrocities, such as when airstrikes were ordered on a school or when innocent civilians were burned alive on Christmas Eve. Indeed, those who are not carefully following the crisis in Myanmar often have little idea what is happening now, due to the minimal coverage.
While evidence of the scant concern the world is paying to Myanmar can be found throughout the media landscape, it was nowhere more apparent than in the Crisis Group’s recent essay, “10 Conflicts to Watch in 2023.” Want to guess what number Myanmar ranked?
It didn’t even make the list!
This continued neglect compels numerous questions that Better Burma’s third panel, entitled “Why Has Myanmar's Struggle for Democracy Been Ignored?” intends to address. First off, why has the democratic movement in Myanmar been left to fend for itself? Why has this issue not risen to a global consciousness and concern, and not engaged any real sector to take on as an issue? Why have news media outlets, international organizations, neighboring countries, Western governments, and large aid organizations consistently declined to provide the support and attention necessary to an unfolding humanitarian disaster?
We will be joined by five, distinguished guests who have much to say on these topics:
· Michael Haack, Campaign Manager for Campaign for a New Myanmar, and member of the U.S. Advocacy Coalition. Michael has been closely involved in a number of important, Myanmar-related issues, as both a researcher and lobbyist.
· Philipp Annawitt, a governance specialist, political analyst and experienced project management professional who has been advising development partners in their engagement with the NUG and CRPH. Philipp has researched the historic concept and definition of “legitimacy” and argues that the NUG should meet any basic criteria.
· Nandar Min Swe, a Los Angeles-based doctor who became one of the main fundraisers for humanitarian aid, and has also led various NUG fundraising projects.
· Igor Blaževič, a senior adviser at the Prague Civil Society Centre. Between 2011 and 2016 he worked in Myanmar as the head lecturer of the Educational Initiatives Program. Following the coup, Igor has come on as a fulltime advisor and supporter of the Spring Revolution.
· Thiri, a researcher, fixer and documentary producer based in Myanmar. Thiri has worked as a freelance consultant for international Human Rights organizations and media outlets. She reports, documents and advocates about the on-going conflict in Myanmar, as well as on political, social and economic issues.
The talk will take place on Friday, February 24th at the following times:
· Los Angeles: 6 am
· New York: 9 am
· Paris: 3 pm
· Yangon: 8.30 pm
· Sydney: 1 am (February 25th)
To join this talk, please register in advance on this zoom link.