Insight Myanmar

Episode #293: Journalist Thomas van Linge shares his insights into the dire situation in Karenni state, contrasting the devastation caused by the military junta versus the resilience of the Karenni people. From the beginning of the coup in February 2021, Thomas closely followed the bravery of Burmese protesters who transformed civil resistance into an armed struggle. His work mapping the conflict revealed that the junta's control is weaker than originally thought, with military forces largely confined to isolated, hilltop bases.The resistance, despite being outgunned, has shown remarkable unity and determination. Lacking a central leadership, they operate in a uniquely cooperative way, effectively countering the junta's efforts. Thomas notes how the Karennis’ community-driven spirit allows them to weather internal conflicts and maintain unity, even without a dominant leader.Thomas also highlights the failures of the international community, criticizing ineffective humanitarian aid and the refusal of neighboring Thailand to provide adequate sanctuary to refugees. Yet he points out that while the lack of international intervention is legitimate grounds for criticism, it does have an upside, as it enables the resistance to maintain a grassroots character, free from external manipulation."Despite all these hardships, all these difficulties, I've never sensed any despair or dip in morale among the people... They're all keeping their spirits up," he says. "Where we visited, most of the villages have been abandoned because they are within the artillery range of the regime. But the regime itself is now isolated in the hilltop camps and could be eliminated from those bases in different perceivable future! So when those areas are completely cleared, then the people could leave the IDP camps and come back to their villages to start rebuilding."

Episode #292: Anrike Visser is Senior Policy Advisor at The Sentry, an investigative and policy organization. She focuses on economic statecraft, and joins us to discuss the challenges and complexities of sanctions in conflict zones like Myanmar.Anrike brings a wealth of insight into the mechanics and challenges of using economic measures to weaken Myanmar’s military junta. Drawing on years of expertise in financial regulation and international policy, she explores how targeted restrictions aim to disrupt the junta’s revenue streams while avoiding harm to ordinary citizens. Anrike also unpacks the junta’s reliance on financial hubs like Singapore and Thailand and its sophisticated evasion tactics, including proxy companies, fake certifications, and illegal trade routes.Anrike highlights how global enforcement gaps allow these measures to fall short, emphasizing the need for better coordination among Western powers and regional actors. Through examples like Myanmar’s timber and oil industries, she explains how some sectors remain critical revenue sources for the junta, while others, such as the garment industry, may require a lighter touch to avoid undue harm to civilians. The role of civil society organizations and investigative journalism is central to her analysis, showcasing how their on-the-ground expertise uncovers vital details about the junta’s networks and operational methods.Anrike also stresses the importance of closing enforcement loopholes, accelerating response times to evidence of evasion, and harmonizing sanctions across jurisdictions. By combining these efforts with broader diplomatic strategies, she illustrates how economic measures can effectively constrain oppressive regimes.In closing, Anrike calls for the international community to step up and support these local organizations who are now doing so much, and while in harm’s way. She says: “I just want to acknowledge that they are the ones that should receive a lot more support from the international community, financial, training, capacity, just to keep doing this work under these difficult circumstances.”

Episode #291: Charles Petrie, a former United Nations official with extensive experience in conflict zones, reflects on his time working with the UN and his recent journey to conflict-ridden areas in Myanmar.Petrie criticizes the UN's limitations and failures, especially regarding its handling of crises in Myanmar, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, and other places. He argues that the UN often oversimplifies conflicts, failing to address their root causes, while powerful member states prioritize national interests over humanitarian principles. This bureaucratic approach has led to systemic failures, particularly in protecting vulnerable populations.Discussing Myanmar, Petrie highlights the courage and resilience of Myanmar’s Generation Z activists, who have built self-sustaining governance structures in the face of brutal repression by the military regime, the SAC. He notes that many Western policymakers indulge in “fairy tale” thinking, overlooking the complex realities of Myanmar’s situation while simultaneously withholding meaningful support. In his view, Myanmar’s emerging grassroots governance—largely led by young, educated activists—proves the people’s capacity for self-determination. Petrie’s journey into Karenni State allowed him to witness both the hardships imposed by the SAC’s violent tactics and the unbreakable resolve of Myanmar’s revolutionary forces.Petrie critiques the West’s inaction and the UN's failure to stand firmly for its foundational values. While he views the UN as a flawed, symbolic institution, he believes it must still be preserved. He sees the UN as a beacon of hope for future generations advocating for justice and a better world. Ultimately, Petrie’s reflections emphasize the need for honest, courageous global engagement to genuinely support Myanmar’s fight for freedom.

Episode #290: Nyo Mar's story is one of resilience, perseverance, and a relentless fight against discrimination in Myanmar. Born into a Muslim minority family in a remote area of Myanmar, her early life was shaped by the harsh realities of being a part of a marginalized community. Her father, a government health supervisor, faced derogatory slurs and institutional discrimination, which deeply angered Nyo Mar. This experience, along with witnessing her father's humiliation, ignited a strong desire to understand the roots of discrimination against her people.As she navigated through her schooling and later university, Nyo Mar faced significant barriers, such as discrimination in the citizenship process and being denied opportunities simply because of her Muslim background. Her experience as a university student in Yangon was marred by further prejudice, including a professor publicly humiliating her. These instances of exclusion were compounded by violent religious conflicts in her hometown, where Buddhist extremists targeted Muslim communities, burning homes and killing people.Despite these challenges, Nyo Mar persisted in her education and professional aspirations, facing both institutional and societal rejection. Even as she entered the field of public health and social activism, including leading HIV/AIDS awareness programs, she encountered barriers such as military surveillance and harassment. This persistent discrimination, both personal and professional, prompted Nyo Mar to seek change, and she went on to found the Feminist Minority Women's Institute, focusing on empowering minority women to participate in political decision-making.Through her ongoing studies and advocacy, including her work on gender and sexuality in Myanmar’s political framework, Nyo Mar continues to fight for a more inclusive future. “We have to understand each other and accept each other and respect each other. Human dignity is the most important thing.” Her story is not just her own; it is the story of many in Myanmar—of those who dream of a future where they are seen, heard, and accepted as equals.

Episode #289: Patrick Burgess is an Australian barrister, international human rights lawyer, and singer-songwriter who has spent his life working at the intersection of law, conflict, and advocacy. His career has taken him to conflict zones such as Rwanda, East Timor, Yemen, Cambodia, as well as Burma.Patrick’s career took shape upon seeing scenes of the horrors of the Rwanda genocide on TV, which inspired him to join humanitarian mission there. Working in emergency relief, he helped children and communities devastated by violence, realizing that his calling lay in humanitarian work. Then in East Timor, Patrick played a critical role in organizing the independence referendum and establishing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, further solidifying his dedication to transitional justice.Patrick's involvement in Burma began as he witnessed the brutal repression under the military junta. He collaborated closely with local organizations, documenting widespread human rights abuses and empowering community-led initiatives to resist the junta's control. His commitment deepened significantly after the military coup in 2021, as he worked tirelessly to support grassroots resistance efforts, assist political prisoners, and amplify the voices of those struggling for freedom.Building on his extensive experience, Patrick co-founded Asia Justice and Rights (AJAR) alongside his wife, Galuh Wandita. AJAR empowers local human rights defenders and ensures that survivors of violence take central roles in the decision-making process, focusing particularly on transitional justice throughout Southeast Asia.“In this context of Burma right now, one of the amazing things is that there are millions of heroes, and they're sustaining each other, and I just hope we can sustain that, that sense of community inspiration as time goes forward as well."

Episode #288: Anagarika Munindra was born in 1915 in a village that later became part of Bangladesh. Raised in an ancient Buddhist clan, he grew up in a loving family and showed a profound interest in the Dharma from an early age. He left his village for Calcutta in 1936 and later joined the Mahabodhi Society. Munindra eventually moved to Burma in 1957, where he studied with Mahasi Sayadaw and immersed himself deeply in meditation and Pali studies. He valued experiential knowledge, which made him a well-rounded and influential teacher.Mirka Knaster, the author of "Living This Life Fully,” a biography of Munindra, shares about the life of this great spiritual teacher. She describes how Munindra’s approach to teaching was unique—more as a "spiritual friend" than a traditional guru. He prioritized the needs of his students, extending loving kindness (metta) in practical ways, ensuring that they were cared for both physically and emotionally. His openness to different meditation techniques and his inclusive, adaptable nature made him an inspiring figure for many Western students.Upon returning to India, Munindra began to influence Westerners arriving during the counterculture movement. This significantly impacted the growth of Western interest in Buddhism. His students, such as Joseph Goldstein, Jack Kornfield and Sharon Salzberg, would later become major figures in the spread of mindfulness in the West, helping to establish centers like the Insight Meditation Society. He also became close with S.N. Goenka and would accept an invitation to spend several years at Dhamma Giri, in addition to his time teaching at International Meditation Society (IMC) and Spirit Rock.As Mirka highlights, Munindra’s influence was both personal and profound, offering an alternative model of spiritual practice that combined kindness, curiosity, and openness. His contributions were crucial to the development of mindfulness and meditation practices in the West. She comments in closing: “I couldn't imagine he would be anything but delighted to see how much the Dharma has spread!”

Episode #287: “I actually find the process of rock climbing quite similar to activism, because during rock climbing, you always fall! You always get disappointed about why couldn't I just get to the top and get to the peak?! But every time we fall, we just keep going. Like what we do in activism.”Johnson Yeung, a prominent pro-democracy activist from Hong Kong, has been at the forefront of regional and global activism, particularly through his involvement in the Milk Tea Alliance. His activism began during his student years, when he played a significant role in the Umbrella Movement. This popular protest in 2014 advocated for democratic reforms, resisting the increasing Chinese authoritarian influence over Hong Kong.Following the government crackdowns, Johnson continued his activism, working with labor rights organizations, and eventually his focus expanded beyond Hong Kong as he realized the interconnectedness of struggles across Asia. In 2020, Johnson became a key figure in the Milk Tea Alliance, a digital solidarity network linking pro-democracy movements across Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Myanmar, and other countries facing authoritarian challenges.Johnson firmly believes that activism must transcend borders, especially as authoritarian regimes collaborate to suppress dissent. He highlights how repression in Hong Kong parallels the military coup in Myanmar, leading him to advocate for increased solidarity between movements“Those stories have tied us together, have continued to inspire us that we are on the right side, and we have entitlement to what we are fighting for,” he continues. “And that's what the authority is afraid of! That's what every single dictator in the region is afraid of—that people will be able to see through the smoke and mirrors and be able to take power in their own hands.”

Episode #286: “Some people during the so-called transition, people in Yangon, were like, 'The military is changing!' Like, no, they're not; they're changing the way they talk to you, to elites, but they're not changing on the ground. And if you spent as much time speaking to survivors of military violence, you'll notice that they torture and kill basically for sport. There's no logic behind it, other than, ‘We can get away with this.’”David Mathieson, a longtime advocate, activist, and scholar focused on human rights in Myanmar, addresses the military's entrenched behavior and the country's complex socio-political landscape. He discusses the regime’s arrogance, sense of entitlement, and institutional cruelty, which he describes as a “culture of recreational sadism.” He emphasizes that while the generals attempted to appear reformist to elites in previous years, its actions on the ground have always remained brutal and unchanged. Mathieson delves into Myanmar’s cycles of oppression, resistance, and the military’s failure to innovate in governance or counterinsurgency. He cites the 2017 Rohingya crisis as an example of brutal tactics leading to increased international condemnation and isolation. He also critiques oversimplified international narratives, urging the importance of local perspectives and understanding the complexities of both the military and ethnic armed groups like the Karen National Union and Arakan Army. Mathieson highlights the failure of peace processes such as the 2015 Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement, attributing it to the military's refusal to engage meaningfully with ethnic minorities, and with the added the complicity of international supporters who endorsed the agreement, thereby legitimizing a flawed peace process.Ultimately, Mathieson paints Myanmar as a country trapped under an irrational military enforcing fear while insisting on its own necessity. He concludes with a stark view of the military's strategy: a deliberate use of overwhelming violence to enforce submission, reflecting a “deplorable, disgusting” policy that has persisted for decades.

Episode #285: “We can't live under the mercy of Rakhine or the Burmese. Would you give your personal guarantee that the atrocities that have been committed over the decades, and centuries, for that matter, will not happen again?”As a Rohingya, Sujauddin Karimuddin has, from a young age, witnessed the systemic and growing discrimination, violence, and displacement inflicted upon his community.As violence escalated, he fled Myanmar, becoming part of the growing Rohingya diaspora. Then came the terrible anti-Rohingya violence of 2012 and 2017, which culminated in entire villages being burned, families torn apart, many deaths and mass displacement.Sujauddin’s journey as a refugee brought him into contact with international human rights organizations, and he quickly emerged as a vocal advocate for the Rohingya cause. He dedicated himself to raising global awareness about the genocide and the conditions faced by the Rohingya in both Myanmar and refugee camps.Through his advocacy, Sujauddin highlighted the importance of documenting the atrocities, ensuring that the voices of the Rohingya were heard on the world stage. He has worked tirelessly to connect with policymakers, activists, and humanitarian organizations, pushing for justice, recognition, and the eventual repatriation of his people with full rights and dignity. Skeptical of NUG’s overtures, to Sujauddin believes that the Rohingya’s safety can only be guaranteed through a fully independent state.“This is the right moment to side with the Rohingya people, because these people have been left neglected for centuries. It's well overdue time for them to have a place where they can they can live safely and call home. And that is of course Rakhine, where they are relocated from!”

Episode #284: Aye Chan Naing is a pioneering journalist and activist dedicated to independent media in Myanmar. He co-founded the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB) in the years following the military's violent crackdown during the 1988 student-led uprising. He was drawn to activism after witnessing the brutality of the regime. After fleeing to the Thai-Burma border, he joined the All Burma Students' Democratic Front but soon found his passion in journalism, inspired by figures like Swedish journalist, Bertil Lintner.In 1992, he launched DVB as a shortwave broadcaster based in Norway with support from the government there. He aimed to provide a voice for the pro-democracy movement and challenge the military’s grip on information. DVB became a vital link for the Burmese people, offering an independent perspective at a time when the government tightly controlled the media. The organization expanded from radio to multimedia, amplifying voices that were otherwise silenced.In 2012, DVB returned to Myanmar following political reforms, but Aye Chan Naing faced obstacles under Aung San Suu Kyi's administration, which limited media access and failed to foster an open environment. The situation worsened after the 2021 military coup, forcing DVB back into exile. Despite severe challenges, DVB continues to operate using underground reporters inside Myanmar.“When you have a microphone, you can say whatever you want, right? But if we're doing exactly the same as the Burmese military, we are no different," he says. "The more we studied, the more we learned about journalism. And it has to be about the people.”

Episode #283: Friedgard Lottermoser, who passed away in August 2024 at 82, lived an extraordinary life. Her story, comparable to Heinrich Harrer’s in “Seven Years in Tibet,” has never been fully told—until now. Born in Nazi Germany, she grew up in the difficult post-war, reconstruction years. In 1959, when she was 17, her stepfather moved the family to Rangoon, Burma, for his new job.Friedegard knew nothing about meditation, though she was interested in spirituality, and she attended her first meditation course with Sayagyi U Ba Khin almost by happenstance. Following ten days of practice, U Ba Khin encouraged her to stay longer for additional instruction, leading to a brief but profound meditative experience that shaped her journey—she reached the “third stage” of Vipassana, bhanga, where she felt sensations pass rapidly through her body, her first embodied understanding of impermanence.Friedgard explains how U Ba Khin guided meditators to experience the unconditioned state. She explains how U Ba Khin advised Goenka to not to teach this practice, as the environment in India wasn’t suitable for this deeper practice, and Goenka's role was to teach larger numbers of students at beginning levels, while U Ba Khin’s was to take a small number of students to more advanced stages. Friedgard highlights other differences between the two approaches, such as Goenka's requirement of "full surrender" from his students—something she would never have accepted at IMC.Friedgard admits that U Ba Khin’s initial hope in teaching her was to encourage her stepfather, a close friend of his, to join a meditation course. When it became clear this would not happen, U Ba Khin's interest waned, and he even suggested Friedgard quit meditation, believing her family environment and military surroundings weren’t conducive to progress: her response to leave home and move into Thiri Hall at the University of Rangoon! She was still living there in 1962 when General Ne Win staged a military coup, which drastically altered life in Burma. Although almost all foreigners—including her family—had to leave the country, Friedgard was able to stay in Burma thanks to a government scholarship to study Pali. Through twists of fate, Friedgard managed to do what almost no other foreigner at that time could: to remain in the increasingly closed country for nine more years, deeply immersed in meditation, education, and Burmese life.

Episode #282: Brian Hioe has been a life-long activist. He participated in Occupy Wall Street, Japan’s anti-nuclear protests, and the Sunflower Movement, which protested Taiwan’s growing economic ties with China. His experience during these movements culminated in founding New Bloom Magazine, which aimed to provide a bilingual platform focused on Taiwan’s social and political issues from the perspective of Taiwan’s youth.Brian discusses the historic and geopolitical ties between Taiwan and Myanmar, dating back to the Chinese Civil War, when many Kuomintang (KMT) fighters retreated to northern Burma before some eventually relocated to Taiwan. He grew up in the vibrant “Little Burma” neighborhood in Taiwan, which became a focal point for Myanmar-related activism following the coup.Brian elaborates on his involvement with the Milk Tea Alliance (MTA), highlighting its evolution from online activism involving Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Thailand to a broader, transnational movement. Myanmar’s inclusion reflects its shared struggle against authoritarianism, although its conditions—being in a state of prolonged conflict with limited internet access—make it a unique member.He emphasizes that the decentralized nature of the MTA is a strategic adaptation to authoritarian states that target centralized leaders. Brian concludes by underlining the importance of maintaining solidarity networks despite challenges like reduced online traction, advocating for sustained efforts to amplify Myanmar voices amid ongoing repression.“Myanmar joining the Milk Tea Alliance reflects the permeability of this framework, that basically, when there's a struggle, you can also be part of the Milk Tea Alliance. It's not exclusionary, but it is the one in which there was not just peaceful protests or student movements in forms of civil disobedience, but one that's spilled over into a civil war, and I think that is the difference. So the protest tactics that work in the other places, for example, will not work in Myanmar, because it is more oppressive.”

Episode #281: Born into conflict, Lartar grew up as the daughter of a Karen National Union (KNU) commander in the remote jungles of Myanmar. From the tender age of three, her life was almost a never-ending flight from the Burmese military's grasp. At seven, she was sent to a school in KNU-held territory, taught by part-time soldier-teachers who rotated between the classroom and the front lines. The harsh conditions eventually forced her return home, only to again face military raids that shattered any semblance of safety.Constantly on the move, Lartar's family abandoned their crops and belongings, fleeing from village to village. At 14, she attempted to find refuge in Thailand but was pushed back by authorities, leading to separation from her family and months of hiding in the jungle. But to Lartar, the jungle was a sanctuary, not a wilderness. Armed with just a knife, she thrived, hunting, foraging, and crafting necessities from the land. The spirits of the jungle, honored through ancestral traditions, provided her with emotional solace and a sense of protection. She survived alone until an almost miraculous reunion with her family in a refugee camp. Determined to break free from the cycle of displacement, she relentlessly pursued an education, even defying her mother's wishes; at 16, she ran away to complete an English program, and secured an internship with the Karen History and Culture Preservation Society. Fluent in five languages, she became an invaluable asset.Facing the challenge of lacking official documentation, Lartar bravely returned to Myanmar to obtain an ID. Disguising herself as an uneducated farmer to avoid military suspicion, she eventually secured it with the help of an old teacher.Her life journey had exposed her to the systemic oppression her people faced, fueling a deep-seated anger towards the regime, which turned toxic. Recognizing her imbalance, she sought peace within herself, retreating once more to the jungle for reflection. Emerging with a renewed vision, Lartar now advocates for unity and federalism in Myanmar. “History is history. We don't need to follow this history. And we create a better history in our life for young people.”

Episode #280: Episode #280: In this episode, Matthew Schojan shares his deeply personal journey through recovery, spiritual practice, and public service. Beginning in his early teens, Matthew faced significant personal challenges and began using substances as a way to cope. In his early twenties, while living in New York, he made the life-altering decision to get sober—a turning point that opened the door to years of reflection, healing, and growth.Navigating sobriety came with its own struggles, including intense anxiety and the resurfacing of long-suppressed emotions. Seeking grounding, Matthew turned to yoga, meditation, and Buddhist study. He eventually found community and support through Dharma Punx, where mindfulness and recovery intersected in ways that resonated deeply with his lived experience.Over the years, Matthew immersed himself in Buddhist traditions—studying with respected teachers including Ajahn Tong Sirimangalo, Sayadaw U Tejaniya, Jack Kornfield, Martine Batchelor, and S.N. Goenka. His path included deep exploration across Zen, Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana lineages, grounding him in a pluralistic and practical understanding of meditation and service.After eight years of living and working in Thailand, Matthew and his family relocated to Myanmar, where he was struck by the distinct cultural and spiritual landscape. He reflects on the complex relationship between mental health and meditation, and how these tools can support well-being—both personally and across communities.Though recorded in 2020, Matthew’s reflections remain powerfully relevant. He discusses the gaps in mental health services in Myanmar, noting that even before the coup, an estimated 95% of people in need lacked access to care. In the current climate of political and social upheaval, these issues have become even more urgent, with mental health emerging as a growing focus for public dialogue and intervention.

Episode #279: “Having internet or having information is life and death in those areas If you have internet you can at least know if the airplanes are coming, if the battles are becoming intensive in the areas that you live. But without that you don't know anything! You cannot run away from air strike, you cannot run away if the airplane is over your head; there’s very little chance that you survive.” Bradley delves deeply into the complexities of internet usage and surveillance in Myanmar. He begins by sharing a historical overview, noting the internet’s relatively recent arrival in Myanmar compared to other countries. He discusses the exorbitant costs of SIM cards before the 2012 telecom revolution when mobile internet became widely available, transforming life in the country. This sudden access to the digital world, as Bradley explains, shook Burmese society, creating both opportunities and risks.The conversation explores the regime's efforts to control and restrict internet access, especially after the 2021 coup, highlighting the frequent use of internet shutdowns as a tool of oppression. As Bradley notes, these shutdowns represent the cyber evolution of the military’s notorious “four-cuts” strategy, where cutting off communication to and from “the enemy” is standard practice. However, the military's definition of “enemy” extends far beyond armed resistance groups to include civilians who are sympathetic to the opposition or hostile to dictatorial rule. The Rakhine State internet shutdown, which became one of the longest in the world, is cited as an example of the junta's strategy to suppress ethnic communities and protests. Bradley points out how these shutdowns, combined with surveillance, create severe isolation for affected communities, exacerbating social, economic, and educational divides.Bradley also touches on the resilience of the Burmese people, particularly youth activists, who have leveraged technology for resistance. Despite the challenges, these young people—digital natives—have used platforms like Signal for secure communication and coordination. Creative campaigns, such as PDF games and donation initiatives, illustrate how the resistance adapts in innovative ways. However, the regime's growing sophistication in digital repression, with support from foreign powers like Russia, continues to pose significant threats. This ongoing battle between oppression and resistance defines Myanmar's current digital landscape, a struggle that will influence the country’s future.

Episode #278: The 4th International Conference on Burma/Myanmar Studies (ICBMS) took place in August 2024, hosted by Chiang Mai University's RCSD. The event gathered scholars, activists, and experts to discuss Myanmar's political, social, and economic challenges, including conflicts, peace processes, human rights, and the 2021 coup's effects. With an estimated 800 attendees, it was one of the largest events of its kind on record.Insight Myanmar Podcast was granted exclusive access to record brief interviews with a variety of guests. These short clips cover many diverse topics, in contrast to our usual longform interviews with a single guest. This is part two of our four-part series, and features the following:Saijai, originally from Thailand, is a leading figure in documenting human rights abuses through open-source technology. She co-founded Myanmar Witness after the 2021 coup, focusing on monitoring online harassment, particularly against women activists and journalists, and providing technical, mental health, and documentation support to combat gendered online bullying.“Arabella," who uses a pseudonym for safety reasons, is an expert in digital security. She stresses the critical need for this in Myanmar, warning against the dangers posed by the military's advanced surveillance capabilities. She advocates for secure VPNs and cloud storage to protect sensitive information, while expressing deep admiration for the resilience and strength of the Burmese people.Ada, a medical doctor, shifted her focus to mental health support after the coup. She emphasizes the emotional toll of the conflict on Burmese society, particularly noting how men often struggle to express their emotions compared to women, and believes that personal emotional awareness is key to healing and supporting others.Joe Anderson, a 24-year-old from London, became deeply involved in Myanmar activism after the 2021 coup. He draws on his studies at Southeast Asian Studies (SOAS) and his work with diaspora groups, emphasizing an awareness of his positionality and privilege as a foreigner in the activism space.

Episode #277: Sean Turnell, an author, economic advisor, and former political prisoner, graced a podcast for the third time to share his insights on Myanmar's deteriorating financial situation. The military's relentless pursuit of hard currency has resulted in rampant resource exploitation, serving either the generals' personal wealth or the purchase of more arms (along with lining their cronies’ pockets) despite international sanctions aiming to curb their financial avenues.Turnell describes the junta's economic policy as practically non-existent, with no strategy for education, health, or foreign investment. A soaring inflation rate, a significant increase in military spending, and a decrease in health and education spending exacerbate the crisis for the Burmese people. In addition, the regime's unusual encouragement of private sector debt default shakes the very foundations of the country’s capitalist system. Turnell notes that the junta's focus seems to be on the daily scramble for foreign exchange, a shortsighted approach with no vision for the future.As for the NUG and other resistance groups, innovative financial strategies have been employed, from international war bonds to virtual banking. However, the challenge remains in navigating the funds safely without falling prey to the military or violating anti-money laundering laws. The use of cryptocurrency has emerged as a notable, albeit experimental, solution to these challenges.Despite the current turmoil, Turnell holds a hopeful view that a democratically elected government could restore the economy to its pre-coup state within a year. He praises the expertise of young Burmese policymakers around the globe, whose knowledge and skills are pivotal to Myanmar's economic recovery. Turnell's confidence in Myanmar's potential rebound hinges on the belief that these competent individuals will lead the way once the military's grip is finally loosened.

The stakes for Myanmar are very high in the upcoming US election. Given the two candidates’ different perspectives on international involvement, the transition to a new US administration will directly affect the way the country helps shape global responses to authoritarianism and human rights abuses. This is particularly true in Myanmar. The panel discussion focuses on how U.S. leadership might engage with Myanmar’s struggle for freedom and democracy in the post-election period.Panelists include:Scot Marciel, a seasoned U.S. diplomat, was the U.S. ambassador to Myanmar from 2016 to 2020. He now works with Stanford University and Asia-based initiatives, focusing on regional diplomacy and policy.Michael Haack has spent years advocating for stronger U.S. policy towards Myanmar, which includes leading the effort to pass the Burma Act, and secure funding for aid.Yun Sen is the Director of the China program at the Stimson Center, and an expert on China-Myanmar relations. She has closely monitored the geopolitical dynamics between China and Myanmar since 2008, focusing on border security and China's influence in Myanmar. Jack Myint is a non-resident fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). He has worked extensively on economic affairs, navigating the complexities of Myanmar's business landscape and international engagement, especially post-coup.First, the panel delves into the likelihood of the military orchestrating a sham election, with guests suggesting that a Harris administration would likely approach it with skepticism. In contrast, they believe that a Trump administration could take a more unpredictable stance, adding that he also has a history of shaping policy through transactional deals.They also explored Russia's growing influence in Myanmar, noting that while Russia's involvement is opportunistic, U.S. policy remains more focused on countering China's influence; a Harris administration would be likely to continue supporting Myanmar’s democratic movements, whereas a Trump administration may deprioritize the issue. Finally, the panelists discussed the potential consequences of the Myanmar military being decisively defeated by resistance forces. They feel this could open the door for the U.S. to take a leading role in coordinating humanitarian relief and supporting democratic governance. However, concerns were raised about internal conflicts among ethnic groups, which could complicate the post-military landscape and make U.S. engagement more challenging, depending on how power is distributed and the stability of the new leadership.

Episode #275: Nyein Chan May's story is one of unyielding resilience and fierce commitment to justice in the face of overwhelming adversity. Born and raised in Myanmar, she grew up in a society steeped in patriarchal norms and military oppression. But Nyein Chan May refused to be confined by these outdated ideologies. She left Myanmar just before the coup to study political science and intersectional feminism in Germany, driven by a vision to dismantle the structures that sought to silence her and countless others.In the revolution that erupted after the military coup, Nyein Chan May recognized that the fight was not just against the junta but also against a deep-seated, patriarchal society, and sexist beliefs even within the resistance. She spoke out, unwavering, about the dual revolution that women in Myanmar must wage—against both the military dictatorship and the patriarchy that has oppressed them for centuries.As the Longyi Revolution unfolded, Nyein Chan May saw more than a protest against oppression; she saw a movement that could redefine what it meant to be a woman in Myanmar. She knew that true revolution would require dismantling not only the junta but also the deep-seated misogyny embedded in her society. Speaking truth to power, she connected with women on the frontlines, who were not just fighting for their country’s freedom but for their right to be seen, heard, and valued.“Women's rights and the rights of marginalized groups are not to be considered separately from the revolution!” she says. “If we understand the broader definition of the word, ‘revolution,’ it is not only about fighting against the military junta; it is about building a new society, about defending ourselves against these discriminatory ideologies. If you define yourself as an actor in the revolution, then stop thinking separately about women's rights and the rights of marginalized groups from the whole context of the revolution.”

Episode #274: Kyaw San Han, a former police captain turned dissident, offers a stark narrative of courage amid systemic oppression. Fleeing Myanmar with his family, he now lives in Japan, where he continues to advocate for democracy and resistance against the military junta. His journey began in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, a natural disaster that exposed the military's indifference to civilian suffering. Motivated by a desire to help, he joined the police force, only to encounter a regime intent on perpetuating fear and corruption. The police training he underwent was akin to prison, filled with physical abuse and brainwashing, designed to mold officers into instruments of oppression. Despite these challenges, Kyaw San Han remained steadfast in his commitment to justice. His pivotal role in aiding the Australian economic adviser, Professor Sean Turnell, underscores this dedication. Facing threats from superiors and navigating a treacherous escape to Thailand and then Japan, his story is a testament to resilience. In Japan, Kyaw San Han now collaborates with the National Unity Government, tirelessly advocating for international support against the junta. His narrative illuminates the profound courage required to stand against tyranny and the unyielding hope for a democratic future in Myanmar. “I would like all of you understand the brutality of the Myanmar junta and Min Aung Hlaing,” he says. “He is using his last strategy to make civilians fight each other! So, please, share my voice and my message to your friends and your family and everyone you know. If there is no dictator Min Aung Hlaing and his brutal regime, Myanmar will be a beautiful a peaceful country as we used to be in the past. Now the people of Myanmar are suffering a lot from the dictator Min Aung Hlaing. But the people of Myanmar, actually, we are kind and we are very friendly. So, now we need help from all of us from all of you.”

Episode #273: The 4th International Conference on Burma/Myanmar Studies (ICBMS), hosted by Chiang Mai University in August 2024, brought together over 800 scholars, activists, and experts to discuss Myanmar's political, social, and economic challenges, including the impact of the 2021 coup. Insight Myanmar Podcast was given exclusive access to cover the event, where we recorded brief interviews with a number of guests and covering a wide range of diverse topics. These interviews are being presented in a special, four-part series, of which this episode is the first. Guests include: Aung Zaw, founder and editor of The Irrawaddy. He has dedicated his career to independent journalism since the 1988 uprising, facing significant threats and intimidation from the Burmese regime, while remaining committed to democracy, press freedom, and exposing the truth about Myanmar's situation. Dr. Mar Mar Gyi, a Burmese anthropologist and filmmaker. She focuses on gender issues and the overlooked roles of women in Myanmar's history, emphasizing that feminist movements have deep local roots, and that Burmese women historically enjoyed significant rights that have been eroded by colonialism, nationalism, and militarism. Katie Julian, an education expert deeply involved in Myanmar's higher education system. She focuses on developing curriculum and training programs in non-state and ethnic-run sectors, emphasizing locally relevant materials and skills-based learning; she remains hopeful post-coup due to the resilience of Burmese educators and the emergence of informal education structures in IDP camps. Amy, a law graduate and activist. She has spent three years working on gender-based violence and child abuse cases, collaborating with NGOs to support human rights defenders and is now building networks in Thailand and Myanmar to provide legal aid and raise awareness about human rights issues in post-coup Burma. Sitthu, a law student and member of the Civil Disobedience Movement. He focuses on human rights research and believes in using law as a tool to address ethnic divides and expose Myanmar's human rights violations to both regional and global audiences, advocating for inclusive and just legal frameworks in the face of military oppression.

Episode #272: “I didn't want to be in a world where we have to keep watching people struggling for freedom and then getting suppressed and getting their dreams crushed. [In Burma,] it was mostly women and girls who were participating in the protests, even more than men! I prayed at that time… I'm not religious, but I just wished and prayed for some way to help. And from that point on, after that period of those very emotional few weeks, I felt like a changed person.”Initially a university activist in the US, Michael Sladnick’s focus shifted to Myanmar after the military coup in 2021. Deeply moved by the brutal repression of protests, he committed himself to the cause, learning Burmese and connecting directly with local activists and resistance fighters along the Thai-Burma border. During a recent trip to Karenni State with the Dutch journalist Thomas van Linge, Michael witnessed an unfolding humanitarian crisis, alongside the resilient spirit of the local population. Karenni, a state close to liberation, still faces ongoing airstrikes and artillery attacks. Civilians live in bombed-out villages, struggling with limited food, no electricity, and inadequate medical supplies. Yet, their determination to fight for democracy remains unwavering.Michael emphasizes the critical need for international support. He recently launched a campaign, "Final Step: Karenni to Naypyidaw," to raise awareness and funds for ammunition and humanitarian aid. He highlighted the inspiring collaboration among diverse ethnic groups in Karenni, working together against the military.“I firmly believe that the ‘above-ground revolution’ and public activism is just as important as the PDFs, especially for building international support,” he says in closing. “So we want to use this campaign to build something sustained to support those type of people as well as to support the humanitarian needs of refugees in all other parts of Myanmar. We're hoping that this is just the first step of that.”

Episode #271: During the anti-military protests of 1988, the man known as Monkey was just an observer. A friend asked him, “Are you a man? If you are a man, why do you just sit and look?”However, over the next 9 years, Monkey had the misfortunate of becoming more personally acquainted with the terror of the Tatmadaw, which regularly brought death and destruction to his community in Karenni state. When he reached his breaking point, he joined a Karenni resistance group, but he found that he was still looking for something more.His prayers found an answer in 1997, when he came into contact with David Eubank, the American missionary who founded the Free Burma Rangers (FBR). Monkey took advantage of their tutorials in basic medical aid as well as photojournalism. While their mobile medical clinic provided relief, Monkey conducted interviews and filmed footage to document the Tatmadaw's ongoing atrocities. Monkey eventually became an FBR trainer both in Myanmar and abroad. Although the Christian faith animates much of the work that Monkey and the wider FBR team do, they do not limit their service to Christian communities.Since the coup, Monkey and the FBR team have more than had their hands full in training the many Burmese youths who have flocked to their camps. Monkey is primarily charged with teaching them photojournalism. “We want the world to know what is happening in Burma,” he explains.As bad as the current times are, Monkey sees an opportunity for a degree of unity and solidarity that he has never before witnessed in his country. Still, he has seen too much to naively assume that disparate groups banding together could be enough to stand up against the Burmese military’s cruelty and inhumanity that knows no bounds. This is largely why he is so focused on raising awareness through photojournalism, so that the story of what is really happening in Myanmar gets out.

Episode #270: Adelina Kamal, who makes her second appearance on the podcast, guides listeners through an enlightening journey into the complex and often fraught world of humanitarian aid and crisis management. With nearly three decades of experience within the ASEAN system, Adelina brings to the table a wealth of knowledge about the political and operational nuances of delivering humanitarian aid in regions like Myanmar, where the crisis is as political as it is humanitarian.Her conversation delves into the ethical and operational challenges of working with or around military juntas and the implications for neutrality and independence in humanitarian work. Adelina introduces the concept of ‘humanitarian resistance,’ where local actors, often labeled as non-neutral by international standards, provide critical aid and support within their communities despite the political risks. She argues passionately for a more localized approach to humanitarian aid, emphasizing the importance of supporting these ground-level efforts over top-down international interventions. And she critiques the traditional, West-centric humanitarian system, calling for a more equitable and effective ‘horizontal ecosystem’ that respects and empowers local communities.“To me, the Western governments’ support to the Myanmar people is more of a token, because after all, aid is a political tool,” she says. “At the end of the day, it's about political will."

Episode #269: Jansen Stovicek reflects on the emotional and practical challenges surrounding his decision to disrobe after 16 years as a monk. Initially, the idea of disrobing felt unimaginable, as his identity had been deeply intertwined with monastic life and strictly following the 90 billion-plus rules of the Vinaya. But after disrobing, Jansen encountered difficulty securing a place to stay as a monk, adding stress and uncertainty to his situation. His decision to disrobe was met with mixed acceptance by his community’ of followers. Ultimately, Jansen’s story is one of personal transformation and reflection. His candid insights shed light on the complexities of leaving monastic life and the broader implications it has on identity, social standing, and community relationships. He ends his reflections by expressing deep gratitude for his time in Myanmar. He emphasizes his continued support for the National Unity Government (NUG) and the democratic movement in Myanmar, wishing for the country's swift liberation from the military regime's oppression. “I am absolutely, eternally indebted to, to Myanmar, to Myanmar people, to Myanmar Buddhism, to the great masters of Myanmar. Very, very thankful to them!” Jansen exclaims. “I admit that I believe that the only country in the world where Buddhism is truly thriving, is Myanmar, believe it or not, despite, of course, the political unrest. And I definitely would like to encourage everyone to support the democratic movement, to support the NUG in Myanmar, because [they] support reason and they support freedom, and Buddhism is reason and Buddhism is freedom.” 

Episode #268: In a discussion emblematic of the complexities inherent in international diplomacy, Scot Marciel, former U.S. Ambassador to Myanmar, elucidates the multifaceted challenges of addressing the crisis there. Marcel’s thinking, informed by his extensive diplomatic service, highlights a pervasive hesitancy among international actors to engage decisively with the Myanmar military, largely deemed an untrustworthy entity, yet also to put their eggs in the NUG/resistance basket. Marciel highlights the deep-rooted issues stemming from the military's unyielding grip on power and its demonstrated propensity for reneging on agreements, as evidenced by the 2021 coup. The military’s overthrow of a democratically-elected government starkly illuminates their unwillingness to cede control, thus undermining any prospect of meaningful dialogue or compromise. Marciel also explains what he believes is the ideal role for the international community to play: a supportive yet non-intrusive stance that facilitates dialogue among Myanmar's diverse actors without dictating outcomes, and respecting the country's sovereignty while providing essential resources and expertise. Marciel's reflections on the Rohingya crisis reveals the diplomatic result of that terrible time; namely, an international mistrust of both the military and civilian government, in the latter case, a sense of being let down. Fast forward to 2024, and today, the international community's response, though well-intentioned, often falls short due to limited understanding and engagement, highlighting the need for a more nuanced and sustained approach to diplomacy and support in Myanmar.“I do think the solution is for the military to be forced to relinquish political power, and to me, that means for the international community to put maximum pressure on that military, [doing] nothing to confer legitimacy on it,” Marciel says in closing. “At the same time, of course, you also have to figure out what comes next… but to me, the answer is, rather than to be paralyzed by the risks, what can the international community to do now to help the various various elements of the resistance, the Civil Disobedience Movement, civil society, other political actors, and prepare for some kind of transition process?”

We were honored to join our friends at The Bangkok Podcast to discuss the origins of our platform and how we've navigated the challenges of hosting discussions in the post-coup environment. We are sharing an interview that occurred on their feed earlier in the year.

Episode #267: Yèshua Moser-Puangsuwan discusses the profound impact of landmines in Myanmar with an equal mix of empathy and depth. He vividly describes how retreating soldiers have planted landmines indiscriminately in both military and civilian areas, leading to devastating consequences. His meticulous investigations reveal the Myanmar military's systematic and large-scale use of landmines, which he categorizes as war crimes due to their indiscriminate nature. Yet he is unsparing of resistance groups in his exposé as well. His extensive fieldwork and research have shown that landmines often harm civilians long after conflicts have ended. Yèshua's work with the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997, involves meticulous documentation and advocacy. He emphasizes that landmines are a suicidal policy for any armed group, as they primarily end up harming their own communities. The challenge of attributing specific landmine incidents to either the military or ethnic groups complicates efforts to address the crisis, but Yèshua remains steadfast in his commitment to transparency and thorough documentation. A crucial aspect of Yèshua's resilience and clarity in addressing these issues comes from his dedicated vipassana meditation practice. He spends about a month each year in intensive meditation. He says that his practice helps him process the immense suffering he witnesses and experiences, allowing him to maintain a compassionate and balanced perspective.“The development of compassion by seeing deeply into your own experience, which is the human experience, leads to very deep compassion for the suffering of others. And for any real social change to occur, I think it has to come out of that space of acknowledging our shared human predicament of suffering and [developing] compassion for that,” he says. “If I didn't do the meditation practice, I probably would have burned out as an activist a long time ago! Also, I don't use anger as my motivation. Anger burns up its own supports, and a lot of activists run on anger, and they can only run for so long. Most of the people who were activists when I first became an activist, are no longer activists. They burned out long time ago. Compassion is what keeps me doing my activism.”

Episode #266: We are joined by Kimi Colney and Makepeace Sitlhou, journalists covering the humanitarian crisis and ethnic conflicts along the Indo-Myanmar border in India’s northeastern states. They discuss the complex dynamics of this region, characterized by its diversity in ethnicity, language, and religion, and its physical and psychological isolation from the rest of India.Kimi and Makepeace highlight how this area, often overlooked by India's central government, faces significant challenges in managing the influx of refugees fleeing the military junta's violence in Myanmar. Mizoram, one of the states in Northeast India, has shown solidarity with these refugees, despite the central government's orders to push them back. This support stems from a shared ethnic and cultural kinship between the local population and the refugees. However, the state's limited resources and the growing strain on local communities make the situation increasingly unsustainable.In contrast, Manipur has been less welcoming, largely due to the political influence of the BJP, the ruling party in India. The state has seen tensions between local communities, particularly the Hindu Meitei majority and the Kuki-Zo tribes, which has been exacerbated by the influx of refugees. The conversation also touches on the broader geopolitical implications, in particular, India’s diplomatic ties with Myanmar's military junta.The two journalists emphasize the need for better awareness and understanding of the region's complexities both within India and internationally. They call for more comprehensive and nuanced coverage of the crisis, which is often ignored or oversimplified in the media.“There is a gap that has to be bridged, both on the Indian and Myanmar side as well,” says Makepeace, and Kimi adds, “It's hard to see a bright future,” to the hope of any peaceful harmony coming soon to the region.

Episode #265: Marc Batac's story is one of profound political transformation, reflecting the broader struggles of Southeast Asia. Born in the eastern regions of the Philippines, Marc's early exposure to socioeconomic struggle, and the dysfunctionality of governance and political patronage in his homeland, shaped his worldview and set him on a course of activism.In 2017, Marc played a pivotal role in helping organize a regional youth meeting that laid the groundwork for the Milk Tea Alliance (MTA), a transnational movement advocating for democracy and human rights. The Alliance, born out of a shared experience of state violence and repression, became a platform for young activists to connect, share strategies, and support each other's struggles. After the 2021 coup in Myanmar, Marc recognized the urgency of the situation, and mobilized networks to provide immediate support to Burmese activists and the broader resistance movement. Through the MTA, he facilitated the sharing of resources, including financial aid and digital tools, to help activists on the ground organize protests and evade military crackdowns. The MTA also played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of Myanmar's pro-democracy movement on the international stage, using social media campaigns and digital activism to draw global attention to the atrocities committed by the junta. Marc and his peers worked tirelessly to coordinate efforts across borders, ensuring that the solidarity and support for Myanmar extended beyond mere words. This collective action not only sustained the momentum of the resistance but also strengthened the transnational ties that are vital for the long-term success of the pro-democracy movements in the region.“If we are not in intentional in defining what the Milk Tea Alliance stands for, then other forces will define it for us. They are already doing that, in the early days and up until now,” he says. “We are simply nodes in our movements. The hashtag in this name and the symbolisms will be gone and will be forgotten at some point. But what will remain would be the relationships that have deepened, that are anchored in an analysis of the concrete link between our material experiences, our pain, and our struggles, and our our aspirations as well, that have existed before the hashtag, and therefore will continue to exist after the hashtag.”

Episode #264: Shalini Sri Perumal delves into her expertise in community-based healthcare, particularly focusing on the integration of indigenous and traditional medicine among Burmese migrant women in Thailand. Shalini's professional journey includes significant work with the Mae Tao Clinic on the Thai-Burma border, an important healthcare facility founded by Dr. Cynthia Maung. The clinic has expanded over the years, offering a wide range of services including reproductive health, dental care, and maternal care, despite facing challenges such as limited funding and the discrimination that Burmese migrants often encounter.Shalini emphasizes the critical role of traditional medicine in preserving cultural identity and providing accessible healthcare to marginalized communities. While she acknowledges that not all traditional practices are safe, she advocates for a collaborative approach that blends community-based methods with Western medicine. This approach not only respects indigenous practices but also seeks to validate them through scientific research. She underscores the impact of colonialism in severing connections to traditional knowledge and stresses the importance of restoring these connections, particularly through the inclusion of indigenous voices in healthcare discussions.In addition to discussing healthcare, Shalini sheds light on the broader situation of Burmese migrants in Thailand. There, particularly Karen and other ethnic minorities face significant discrimination from the Thai government. She also touches on the plight of Burmese refugees in India, particularly in Mizoram and New Delhi. There, refugees struggle with the lack of legal recognition and access to basic services, exacerbated by India's non-signatory status to the Refugee Convention and recent discriminatory policies. Despite these challenges, Shalini remains hopeful about the potential for advocacy and collective action among ethnic communities to improve their situation both in Thailand and India.

Episode #263: Sanjay Valentine Gathia weighs in on the complex India-Myanmar relationship, highlighting the historical context and evolving policies that have shaped it. He underscores the importance of understanding the diverse voices emerging from Myanmar's Spring Revolution, emphasizing the need for India to reassess its strategic interests and adopt a more inclusive approach.He critiques the Indian military's predominant influence on their country’s relationship with Myanmar, which is primarily based on finding ways to leverage a positive relationship to get the Burmese military to crack down on Indian guerrilla groups that operate across the northeastern border. Instead, Gathia advocates for a shift towards engaging with pro-democracy forces and civil society actors in Myanmar, which he believes is ultimately essential for India's own strategic interests and regional stability.Drawing parallels with historical and contemporary geopolitical scenarios, Gathia calls for deeper, more meaningful dialogues that transcend mere information exchange. In essence, he believes that a concerted effort to improve understanding and foster dialogue can only lead to better policies that support both India's and Myanmar's interests. “The lobbying can be done at different levels,” he says in closing. “It can be done directly with the Indian government, it can be done with different agencies that are there, it can also be done with different Indian think tanks who are also influential. If their understanding and their knowledge is improved, I think that's what would lead to a better understanding and analysis and thereby a better policy implementation.”

Episode #262: Hnin Thet Hmu Khin, a dedicated women's rights activist, reveals the often undocumented struggles and triumphs of women in Myanmar's revolution. Despite their widespread and committed participation, women are conspicuously absent from media narratives and decision-making roles, often relegated to the background even as they stand at the forefront of the fight for freedom. She bravely discusses the pervasive gender stereotypes and the alarming incidents of sexual violence within revolutionary ranks, challenging the listener to confront these uncomfortable truths.She also highlights the often-overlooked contributions of military wives, whose influence has led to numerous defections, turning the tide against an oppressive regime. These women, once silenced and oppressed, find empowerment and purpose in the revolution, revealing the deep-seated ironies within a patriarchal society.Hnin’s voice is a clarion call to acknowledge and address gender-based violence as an integral part of the revolution, rather than an issue to be sidelined. It compels the listener to reconsider how patriarchal and condescending attitudes can be insinuated into the very fabric of so-called “revolutionary” movements, highlighting the indispensable role women must play in the quest for true societal transformation.“Sometimes I say that you existing in in this very male dominated world is already enough,” she says in closing. “Maybe you can't speak, or maybe you don't have a chance to speak. Maybe there are barriers. But just living, and just surviving in this very male-dominated world, it's already a voice.” 

Episode #261: Saw Kapi delves into his journey and contributions to Myanmar's democratic and educational landscape. His story began with involvement in the 1988 student uprising against military rule, which led him to the Thai-Burma border to join the resistance. The struggle for democracy became a central theme in his life, intertwining with his identity as a student and later as an educator.Saw Kapi emphasizes the critical role of education in revolution, stressing that a well-educated population is essential for sustainable change. He highlights his efforts in preparing young Burmese for international scholarships and higher education, aiming to create a new generation of leaders. Despite the challenges posed by a repressive military regime, his focus remained on fostering critical thinking and bridging gaps between local and international opportunities.His narrative underscores the importance of grassroots governance, advocating for decentralized, community-driven governance structures as a foundation for a federal democratic union. By empowering local leaders and focusing on public administration, Saw Kapi envisions a future where Myanmar can build a democratic system from the ground up, ensuring that governance serves the people and not just the central authority.“Our standard of treating the population that we govern has to be right!” exclaims Saw Kapi. “We cannot just treat them differently because we have guns and control the area. If we think that political authorities come from the barrel of the gun, then we are heading towards dictatorship. But if we believe that our authority to govern comes from the consent of the governed, we are heading in the right direction.”

Episode #260: Helene Buchholz, a journalist from Germany, ventured into the heart of Myanmar's conflict, driven by a personal mission to shed light on an underreported crisis. A radio journalist for the German public broadcasting network, Helene stepped out of her comfort zone, undergoing extensive training to prepare for the dangers that lay ahead.In Myanmar, Helene embedded herself with the People's Defense Force (PDF), a group of civilians turned resistance fighters. These were not seasoned soldiers, but new volunteers from diverse backgrounds, unified by a shared purpose: to protect their people from the brutal military junta. Helene’s interactions were limited by strict security protocols, ensuring her safety and that of the locals who supported her.Despite these constraints, Helene was moved by profound nature of what she observed: the resilience and determination of the PDF, trained by ethnic minority groups and motivated by a desire for freedom. Her return to Germany marked the beginning of a new phase—using her platform to raise awareness and inspire a younger audience back home.“I'm planning to return when the junta is defeated, to celebrate on the streets,” she says, reflecting on her time here. “I will stay invested, and I will stay interested… And so even if I'm not crossing the border again, very soon, I will keep in touch with the people and maybe meet them soon again, in exile at least.”

Episode #259: When Dr. Jenny Ko Gyi followed her military husband to a remote posting in rural Gangaw, she had no idea how profoundly the experience would affect not only her own spiritual life, but also go on to impact the lives of hundreds of thousands of meditators across Myanmar.Jenny was working at the local clinic, and a colleague told her about a small meditation retreat she had attended deep in the forest, on Monle Hillock. Jenny was keen to visit, although it was not an easy trek to the monastery; in fact, she might have been the first outsider to ever set foot there and meet the Monle Sayadaw. Impressed, Jenny soon made plans to return and attend a meditation course.Her experience with Monle Sayadaw was life-changing. He displayed great prowess in various mental feats, from being able to give nuanced, individualized advice to meditators based on their mental states, to reading the minds and intentions of others, to predicting the future. Jenny had always hoped to find a teacher like this, and her search was over.Jenny became Monle Sayadaw’s dedicated disciple, making more frequent trips to his forested abode where she learned about his teachings more deeply.  She soon realized that because the journey to his remote monastery was too arduous for most to manage, she should do her best to make the Sayadaw more accessible to others, and so brought him to Yangon for Dhamma talks. Eventually she organized a small, one-week meditation retreat in her own family home in Yangon. One of the attendees of the inaugural course was Aung San Suu Kyi, who had recently been released from house arrest.From that small first course, Monle Sayadaw’s renown began to grow, and eventually he became widely known in Burma. More retreats were organized in Yangon and throughout the country, and even in the United States. An enormous meditation center was built in Mandalay, and Jenny estimates that hundreds of thousands ultimately came to learn his technique.

Episode #258: On this special day of August 8th, the anniversary of 8888, we bring you a story of freedom.Azad's mission is a testament to the enduring spirit of international solidarity and the fight for democracy. An internationalist from the USA, Azad's journey began in the heart of the Rojava revolution in northeastern Syria, where he spent four years aligning with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This experience deepened his commitment to revolutionary causes and honed his skills as a fighter and trainer. Motivated by a sense of duty to support oppressed peoples, he transitioned to the conflict in Myanmar, embedding himself in the resistance movement in Chin State. Azad's mission in Myanmar is multifaceted, focusing on providing advanced sniper training and enhancing the operational capabilities of local resistance fighters. Despite the challenges, including limited resources and harsh conditions, efforts like Azar’s are crucial in helping level the playing field against the well-armed—though demoralized— Burmese military forces. His training emphasizes the importance of precision, technical expertise, and strategic acumen, aiming to transform motivated but inexperienced locals into effective combatants.“The revolution in northeastern Syria and the revolution that's going on here touch very much on the same wavelength, if you will,” he says. “People all over the world, they're looking at these revolutions that are happening. And the question is people; not governments, not states, not organizations. The question is people! When they're faced with dictatorship, when they're faced with tyranny, or when people come together and they want to fight for their own freedom for their own autonomy for their own self-determination … can they do it?” 

Episode #257: This is a story about how the Burmese are willing to pass through hell and high water in order to evict the military from their seat of power, and achieve their democracy.Lorcan Lovett is an experienced journalist who has dedicated much of his career to covering Myanmar’s tumultuous and complex political and cultural landscape. He paints a vivid picture of the dynamic energy that characterized the country during its nascent democracy, with its growing industries and vibrant cultural scene, that wasbrought to a screeching halt by the coup, instituting a new, stark and brutal reality.Through Lorcan’s lens, we witness the resilience of the Myanmar people, their fight against oppression, and the harsh realities of conflict. Lorcan's stories are not just about the headlines; they delve into the personal experiences of those caught in the crossfire, from young resistance fighters to displaced villagers. His narrative brings to life the everyday struggles and profound courage of a nation in turmoil.Lorcan also shares the challenges of reporting in such an environment, the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists, and the unyielding spirit of the Myanmar people. His account is a testament to the power of journalism in uncovering truths and giving a voice to those who strive for justice and freedom in the face of overwhelming adversity.“The resistance overall is ready,” he says, describing how they are on the precipice of unseating the military regime. “They are on a journey of figuring out what the future looks like, from village to township to state or region to a country as a whole.”

Episode #256: Michael Haack, a long-time advocate and policy expert, outlines the long and arduous journey of the Burma Act from its inception to appropriation. The Burma Act, a legislative framework guiding US policy toward Myanmar, required relentless lobbying to secure the necessary funding, ultimately resulting in a significant $167 million appropriation, a notable increase in a period of general budget cuts.Haack highlights the power of grassroots activism. The concerted efforts of local constituencies, churches, and advocacy groups played a pivotal role in influencing key legislators like Mitch McConnell, demonstrating the impact of community engagement on foreign policy. Despite the systemic challenges, the increased funding reflects a robust commitment to supporting Myanmar’s democratic aspirations and humanitarian needs.Concerning the multifaceted nature of US aid, Haack offers a nuanced view of the interplay between policy, power, and the pursuit of global justice, urging continued grassroots efforts to sustain and enhance US support for Myanmar.In the end, Haack is cautiously hopeful that US funding towards Burma will continue to increase, albeit with a caveat that if Donald Trump is elected, overall foreign aid will dip across the board. He also remarks on the US’s gradual shift from a Burma policy that had been driven almost entirely around the person of Aung San Suu Kyi, and which now relies increasingly on the voices of ethnic communities who have settled in the US. “That opens the possibility of a really different way of looking at the conflict, and I think one that is more realistic,” he says. “Whatever you think about Suu Kyi, she's literally one of something like 56 million people. We have the basis to drive a US-Myanmar policy that's much more realistic and much more robust, and the expansion does show that the US is paying attention to Myanmar.”

Episode #255: Roger Huang dives into the enigmatic nature of Myanmar's political landscape, arguing that the transition period wasn't driven by external pressures like sanctions or international isolation, but by an internal recalibration towards the military realizing its vision of a “disciplined democracy.” This vision is rooted in the failure of the Burmese Way to Socialism of the 1960s-70s, which prompted the military to pivot towards more economic openness combined with tightly controlled democratization that would ensure their continued dominance.From the 1990s onwards, the military indeed benefited from economic openings despite international sanctions, enriching themselves and cronies through trade with countries like China and Thailand. The 2010s brought genuine, albeit limited, liberalization, which was part of the military's plan, and not a step towards full democratization. The military's grip tightened again as the NLD's electoral success threatened their system.Civil society, often seen as a democratizing force, was allowed to flourish only within strict limits, providing services where the state did not, but never challenging the military's core interests. The military's resilience, unity, and adaptability have been key to its enduring control. In sum, Huang's analysis presents a stark picture: the junta’s “disciplined democracy” was never meant to transition to true civilian rule, and any significant challenge to this system would always have been met with the swift reassertion of military dominance.

Episode #254: Kitti Prasirtsuk, a professor at Thammasat University, explains that neither ASEAN, nor Thailand in particular, have done enough to address the regionally important Myanmar crisis. In terms of Thailand, its strong economic ties to Myanmar, as well as their close military-to-military relations, have influenced its passive approach. He underscores the necessity of engaging Myanmar's military junta in negotiations, despite its lack of credibility, due to the junta’s continued control over the country’s central areas.Kitti also points out the potential role of China in influencing the junta, emphasizing the importance of major powers in facilitating negotiations. He stresses the need for a unified approach by ASEAN and the involvement of international actors to address the humanitarian crisis and push for a ceasefire.Despite the complexity and challenges, Kitti believes in making attempts to resolve the situation, highlighting the changing dynamics within Myanmar, where opposition forces are gaining ground. He advocates for continued efforts towards negotiation and dialogue, even if success seems unlikely.“I just think that Thailand, ASEAN, and the major powers should discuss together how to engage with Myanmar as a whole,” he says. “Unless we have a hope, we have nothing, and we let the people suffer. It’s not good.”

Episode #253: This is the 4th installment of our interview with Jonathan Crowley, a dedicated vipassana meditator in the tradition of S. N. Goenka. In this episode, he speaks about the time he and his wife Carolyn spent in Myanmar, and how that affected his spiritual journey in general, and specifically his practice of meditation.Myanmar is particularly vulnerable to “Orientalism,” a term referring to the distorted, exotified views that Westerners have of Mideastern and Eastern cultures. Goenka's narrative paint both an overly romanticized view of the country, as well as encouraging a restrictive interpretation through the narrow lens of the lineage tradition and Goenka’s “purity” narrative, which clashes with the vibrant, complex and rich reality that Jonathan and his wife encountered during their time in the country.As the dissonant experiences accumulate, Jonathan faces increasing angst about the organization's messaging and his own complicity in promulgating the tradition’s mythology through a desire to belong and in his role as Assistant Teacher. Increasingly, he grapples with the belief that meditation alone cannot address deeply ingrained social conditioning, and that personal liberation and addressing societal issues are not mutually exclusive, finding himself more and more at odds with the organization’s perspective.

Episode #252: Born in a Thai refugee camp after his family fled the violence in Myanmar, Star2’s life has been remarkable. His family moved to San Diego when he was just five, and there he faced a new set of challenges, including language barriers, cultural adjustments and bullying. To escape these hardships, he found solace and inspiration in music, particularly hip-hop. Influenced by artists like Tupac, Star2 began creating his music, blending genres like pop, R&B, and hip-hop to reflect his diverse experiences.Star2's songs, such as "Six Feet Away" and "Pain," address themes of fame, personal struggles, and the impact of his upbringing. His music resonates with a broad audience, including Asian communities and Western listeners. Returning to Myanmar recently, Star2 was motivated by the resilience of the people and aims to use his growing platform to raise awareness about their plight. Despite the difficulties, Star2 remains focused on his career, hoping to amplify his people's voices and stories through his art while avoiding direct involvement in politics due to potential risks.“[My listeners are] people who have gone through what I’ve gone through, people who feel like they don’t fit in, because I never fit in. I was different. But people who are different, they’re usually my people. They’re very supportive. Back home in the jungle, they listen to my stuff even though there’s no service out there. It’s crazy! Even in Myanmar, I have a big fan base. Burmese people, all Asian people, it doesn’t matter what type of Asian you are. As long as I’m growing and becoming bigger and more well-known, I’m the voice for the Asian community, not just my people."

Episode #251: Alexandra Kaloyanides joins the podcast to talk about her recent book, Baptizing Burma: Religious Change in the Last Buddhist Kingdom. After pursuing her own meditation practice while exploring more traditional themes in Buddhist studies, she became fascinated by “these young evangelical Americans who ended up sort of by accident in Burma.”She notes that the origins of missionary interest in Asia can be traced to early 19th century theories that ancient Sanskrit manuscripts told of a Jesus-like figure, leading some to suspect that the messiah had actually traveled to Asia, but in the ensuing centuries, his teachings had been lost there. She notes how this narrative nourished their sense of Asia as “‘this land of darkness’ that they could bring light to.” Surprisingly, Kaloyanides describes how Karen tribes had a parallel mythology that spoke of a lost book that would be delivered by foreigners in the far-off future; for this reason, the American missionaries were warmly welcomed by the Karen.  Some Baptists even began to speculate that the Karen might be one of the lost tribes of Israel! Overall, the mission’s success with converting ethnic peoples was much greater than with the Bamar. Many missionaries, especially women, saw modern education as an important tool in luring people towards conversion. They stocked schools with equipment such as globes and maps and the like. And while many Bamar showed a great interest in those objects, few had any interest in conversion. But the schools, themselves, were very impactful on Burmese culture. A more modern education, in English, is actually one of the missionary movement’s enduring legacies in Burma. Kaloyanides notes how missionaries impacted Burmese culture in unintended ways, too, such as bringing the first printing press into the country. Somewhat ironically, too, she explains how the missionaries’ work in Buddhist lands, although for the most part unsuccessful, ultimately facilitated a greater understanding of Buddhist thought in the West.In her final analysis, other than their great success in ethnic territories, Kaloyanides emphasizes the overall failure of missionary work in Burma. “Burmese Buddhism became, if anything, more pronounced, stronger, more powerful in the face of all of this change [like in education] and challenge,” she says.

Episode #250: Rosalia (“Lia”) Sciortino, founder of SEA Junction in Bangkok, shares her poignant narrative of dedication to the country of Myanmar. Her journey began with an interest in cultural anthropology and development sociology, which led her to Southeast Asia. Lia's subsequent work with the Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and IDRC provided her with a deeper understanding of the region’s socio-political complexities.Lia’s connection with Myanmar deepened through her focus on transnational issues such as migration, trafficking, and cross-border health. Her commitment to social justice and democracy is reflected in her support for various advocacy programs even through Myanmar’s most repressive periods. She underscores the resilience of Myanmar’s civil society, particularly the role of women and LGBTQI activists, who have been on the front lines of the struggle against the military junta.Through SEA Junction, Lia creates a public space to foster awareness and empathy for Southeast Asian issues. Exhibitions, discussions, and art installations serve as powerful tools to engage the public and highlight the ongoing struggle for democracy in Myanmar.Lia hopes that more people will tune in and become involved. “There is a shortage of international community attention, and unfortunately, they have abdicated the management of this to ASEAN,” she says, adding that because they have not met their responsibility, that the international community should have “remained active and implemented all kinds of sanctions and embargoes and stopped the sale of arms. There is a lot of work to be done internationally! But at the same time, we can see that the people of Myanmar really engage, and this is why I think is a fantastic example for the rest of the region.”

Episode #249: Nathan Ruser, a geospatial analyst focusing on human rights, sheds light on a deeply troubling situation unfolding in Myanmar's Rakhine State. Ruser has meticulously detailed the actions of the Arakan Army (AA), revealing a pattern of arson attacks targeting Rohingya villages. These attacks, which spanned from late April to May 2024, have displaced tens of thousands and razed numerous communities to the ground.Ruser's insights highlight the complex interplay of military strategy and ethnic tensions. He explained that while the Myanmar junta has historically used divide-and-conquer tactics to destabilize regions, the AA’s recent actions appear to be both retaliatory and strategically targeted. Despite their public denial, satellite imagery and eyewitness accounts suggest a coordinated effort to burn Rohingya settlements following the capture of military positions.“To say to the Arakan Army that if you want to be part of a future democratic federalized Burma, this is unacceptable! And to hope that despite the nationalistic take that the Arakan Army’s had, and their clearly nationalistic bent, [I would] like to think that they would rather play a role in a future federalized Burma then act as a pariah state sandwiched between India and Burma. And in their statements, that they have shown as much willingness to align themselves with the national resistance, [which] does show that they would prefer a role in a future without the military. What they said and what they do is a different matter, and they've quite explicitly said that they are only looking for autonomy within a federalized Myanmar. They're not looking for independence.”

Episode #248: Working in ASEAN for 27 years, Adelina Kamal played a pivotal role in establishing and ultimately being appointed executive director of its AHA Centre for Coordinated Disaster Response, and she also co-drafted the ASEAN agreement on disaster management and emergency response. Overall, she admires the organization. “Basically I grew up together with ASEAN and I have become the person I am right now partly because of ASEAN. ASEAN has shaped me as an individual.”Yet at the same time, Adelina has publicly called attention to ASEAN’s shortcomings regarding disaster relief in Myanmar. The ASEAN agreement on disaster management mandates that the affected country must consent to and direct the assistance, deciding who receives aid and how it is distributed. This framework assumes a willing and capable government, which respects national sovereignty and prevents foreign entities from acting unilaterally. However, in the case of the Myanmar crisis, this assumption has all but broken down, and Adelina is calling on ASEAN to address the problem in an effective way. The junta does not prioritize the welfare of its people—in fact, it continues to add to their misery—and therefore the very government of the country cannot be counted on as a good-faith partner, as has occurred in most all other AHA efforts. ASEAN has yet to squarely face, and deal with, this fact.“It is an existential crisis of ASEAN!” she exclaims. “It is not only a Myanmar crisis, but ASEAN is in crisis too. I hope that ASEAN will exist in decades to come because really, the relevance of ASEAN is being questioned here. With what's happening on the ground [in Myanmar], and with the nature of the Spring Revolution, which is really teaching us a lot of things; for this older generation, it is really the time for us and for ASEAN to do so; if we want to make ASEAN matter to the people.”

Episode #247: Nicholas Koumjian, the head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), shares his insights into the ongoing atrocities in Myanmar. He emphasizes the critical need for collecting and preserving evidence amid the escalating crisis, where crimes have only intensified since the military coup in 2021. Indeed, IIMM’s mission is to meticulously gather and verify evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, social media, and satellite imagery. Although not a prosecutorial body itself, IIMM plays a vital role in any related cases.Koumjian highlights the multifaceted nature of the Myanmar conflict, drawing parallels to other international crises he has investigated. The IIMM has faced formidable challenges in collecting data-- not many on the IIMM staff speak Burmese, and the organization has no on-the-ground presence inside the country. So the IIMM leverages innovative technology to collect the vast amounts of data and organize it so that it can be used by courts around the world. He expresses gratitude for the bravery of those who have provided information and reaffirmed IIMM's commitment to justice for crimes committed, and deterrence of future crimes.“If you did not prosecute them, you get more of these crimes occurring,” Koumjian says. “It’s very important to establish that historical record. Very important that young people in that country learn more and understand better about what actually happened before they were born, but not that long ago, and that affected their parents, and grandparents, so that they understand them better, and so that it never happens again. And so that is what we hope to be contributing to in our work in Myanmar. We can break the cycle of impunity that has led to such crimes happen over and over again in Myanmar's history.”

Episode #246: Thura, co-founder of Spring University Myanmar (SUM), offers a poignant narrative of resilience and innovation in the face of tyranny. Following the 2021 coup, Myanmar's youth found themselves grappling with a reality where traditional education systems crumbled under the weight of military oppression. Thura's response was visionary: establishing an alternative educational platform that not only defies the junta but also sustains the spirit of learning and resistance.Spring University Myanmar has emerged as a vibrant beacon of hope, providing micro-credentials and diploma programs across diverse disciplines. By harnessing the power of digital and analog technologies, including innovative tools like the SUM box and radio lectures, the university transcends the barriers imposed by conflict. Thura's approach is rooted in the belief that education extends beyond classroom walls, fostering critical thinking, cultural appreciation, and active citizenship among Myanmar's youth.Despite the ever-present threat of military retaliation, Thura's commitment to safeguarding the identities of students and faculty underscores the delicate balance between defiance and survival. This endeavor not only educates but also cultivates a generation of informed and empowered individuals poised to rebuild a free Myanmar. Through Spring University Myanmar, Thura illuminates the path towards a future where knowledge becomes the cornerstone of resistance and renewal.“I've joined some of these faculty lectures, and damn, they are just so wonderful and full of passion, both in their subject material and their approach to teaching,” he says. “So beyond that political affiliation, and the affinity that comes with it, what really keeps the students coming back to SUM is that kind of quality of teaching.”

Episode #245: Barry Lapping shares his spiritual odyssey from the turbulence of the Vietnam War era and counterculture movement, to the serene hills of Bodhgaya, India, to becoming a vipassana meditation teacher in western Massachusetts.His story begins with a chance encounter with a captivating magazine photo of a meditator in the mountains of New Mexico, which ignited his quest to find true happiness. His subsequent journey led him to try kibbutz life in Israel, before traveling overland through Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan to India, where he found his spiritual home at the Burmese Vihara in Bodhgaya. There, under the guidance of his first teacher, Munindra, and later S.N. Goenka, Barry delved deep into the practice of vipassana meditation.Barry highlights the essence of Goenka's teachings, which focus on the purification of the mind through a non-judgmental observation of physical sensation that leads to an experiential understanding of impermanence, suffering, and non-self. Despite initial struggles, Barry found profound transformation through this practice, which provided him with the tools to navigate the complexities of life with equanimity and wisdom. He has devoted his life to helping spread these teachings, and is now the Center teacher at Dhamma Dhara, in western Massachusetts.Barry’s story is a testament to the enduring power of meditation to bring about profound personal change and contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world.