Recognize the NUG!
In the following quote from a recent podcast episode, Lucine expresses frustration and confusion about the lack of recognition for the National Unity Government (NUG) by the international community. This quote is significant as it provides insight into the perspectives and concerns of a key stakeholder in the conflict in Myanmar, and highlights the challenges and difficulties faced by the NUG in its efforts to gain recognition and legitimacy. The NUG is a coalition of pro-democracy forces that was formed in response to the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021. It is led by elected officials and has the support of many civil society organizations and activists. The NUG has called for the restoration of democracy and the release of detained political leaders, and has made efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and support to those affected by the conflict. Given these efforts, it is important that the NUG receive more support and recognition from the international community, particularly in the face of the military's continued crackdown on dissent and human rights abuses.
“We don’t understand why the entire world, especially the diplomatic countries do not recognize the NUG, and why they are still acknowledging the military council in one way or the other!”
Lucine: We don't understand why the entire world, especially the diplomatic countries do not recognize National Unity Government, the NUG, and why they are still acknowledging the military council in one way or the other! What we heard as the explanation from certain diplomats we've met is that because there's no territorial occupation by NUG. I think it is the most unreasonable answer, because how can one imagine NUG occupying the territory, since once they come back into the territory, they will be arrested, and executed. They can only be the government in exile! And you may see that Zin Mar Aung, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of NUG, has been repeatedly demanding for this recognition.
Host: And also, it is not true to say that they do not hold ground, that they do not hold territory. There are constantly statistics coming up showing how much territory they actually control. And I guess you can define what ‘control’ actually means, but in some of those cases, the PDFs and by extension, the NUG control some territory to the extent that they are able to operate schools and other functions that they carry out now as part of their administration. And the percentage is, I've heard anywhere from 33 to 66%.
Lucine: That is why we are not very pleased with the international community's reaction on Myanmar. It is like the international community is letting the whole nation vanish by neglecting us in different ways.