Insight Myanmar

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.

Episode #244: Matthew Arnold details the aftermath of Operation 1027, and how this has dramatically shifted the landscape of conflict in Myanmar. The junta's inability to maintain control, compounded by losing key territories, showcases a dramatic shift in power dynamics. Arnold emphasizes that the ceasefire brokered by China, although seemingly significant, is more a tactical pause than a strategic peace, driven by the junta's need to save face amid substantial defeats.The broader conflict is marked by a series of insurgencies and the junta's heavy reliance on violence against civilians, illustrating its desperation. Arnold points out that the junta's attempts to stabilize their rule through ceasefires often fail, revealing a pattern of transactional and insincere agreements meant to temporarily halt fighting rather than foster long-term political solutions.Arnold’s insights highlight the junta's eroding military capacity, strained logistics, and diminishing strategic depth. This scenario underscores a critical juncture where local resistance, ethnic alliances, and international diplomatic pressures converge, potentially leading to the junta's collapse and a reconfiguration of Myanmar's political landscape.Matthew Arnold concludes with a powerful message to those continuing on in the resistance movement: “The Myanmar people should take heart. This has been your revolution, you have been the ones who have pushed it, you've succeeded more than any other country has when confronted with a deeply entrenched, genocidal military, and one that is willing to use mass violence against the population. All of this has been through the determination and dedication of the Myanmar people.”

Episode #243: Kenneth Wong, a Burmese language teacher and translator, visited Thailand to connect with compatriots who have sought refuge there due to the conflict in Myanmar. While he enjoyed his stay in Mae Sot, a town with a significant Burmese presence, he soon realized that it was quite different for Burmese refugees: after a fraught journey across the Moei River to avoid capture, the community is plagued by fear, extortion by local authorities and a lack of prospects that keep many from even leaving their house, let along learning Thai. Despite these challenges, a strong Burmese community persists in Mae Sot, with hopes of returning home after political change. Kenneth reflects on the plight of previous generations of activists who remained in exile without assimilating, limiting their ability to aid current movements. He also notes instances of Thai kindness toward Burmese workers against the backdrop of a complicated, historical relationship.At the end of the day, Kenneth is anything if not optimistic. “I'm hopeful that some of the activists and refugees I met, even though they are in a desperate situation with an uncertain future, they also turning around and helping people who are less fortunate, and helping people who arrive fresh off the boat as it were,” he says in closing. “I have nothing but admiration for them, for the fact that even though they are struggling, they seek reward in selfless acts. I think these are the people that in the post-coup Federal Union, the kind of democratic kind Burma that we envision, these are the kinds of young people who will lead to nation-rebuilding efforts. These are the kind of people who I hope could become a bridge to foster goodwill between Thailand and Burma, because if they go back, maybe they retain some fond memories of the good experiences that they've had in Thailand.”

Episode #242: The situation at the Myanmar-India border exemplifies the intersection of regional geopolitics, ethnic dynamics, and national security concerns. Angshuman Choudhury, a policy analyst, emphasizes that the northeast region of India, with its proximity and historical ties to Myanmar, plays a pivotal role in India's strategic calculus. The border, stretching 1,640 kilometers, is not just a line on a map, but a space of significant ethnic and cultural interaction that impacts local and national policies.India's relationship with Myanmar is a pragmatic one, influenced by security concerns over insurgent groups finding refuge in Myanmar and the broader geopolitical landscape marked by China's growing influence. Choudhury notes that the Indian government’s Act East policy and investments in border infrastructure underscore an ambition to integrate its northeast region more closely with Southeast Asia, positioning it as a gateway to further economic and strategic opportunities.However, the influx of refugees from Myanmar following the coup in 2021 has complicated this goal, highlighting internal policy contradictions. Choudhury notes that while Mizoram's government has shown humanitarian support for refugees because of its ethnic ties and local sentiment, the federal government has taken a more cautious approach, revealing a tension between regional and national security priorities.In essence, Choudhury points out how the dynamics at the Myanmar-India border illustrate how local ethnic relations, national security policies, and international strategic interests converge, creating a complex tapestry that has both immediate and long-term implications for the region.“As far as Myanmar is concerned, there is almost an across the board consensus [in New Delhi] that ‘we've got to play safe.’ There is an understanding that we need political stability in Myanmar in order to ensure economic development and economic relationship with India, and also to prevent the spillover of the conflict into northeast India,” he says. “In fact, in that sense, there is a bipartisan consensus between India's ruling party and opposition parties over this issue.”

Episode #241: “When we look back now, it's easier to look at that [transition] period darkly and dismiss it and say it was kind of a mirage,” says Timothy McLaughlin. “I do think there was there was were some real things happening and definitely benefits. Was it equal across the board? Of course not. And was it halting? Yes, for sure.”McLaughlin, a seasoned journalist, begins by highlighting the initial optimism and significant economic changes that took place during this transition period, such as the telecom revolution and banking reforms, which provided tangible benefits despite the overarching political uncertainties and sporadic violence. He then critiques US policy towards Myanmar at that time, suggesting that the Obama administration’s early attempts were genuine but ultimately superficial. The initial post-coup U.S. response, he also argues, was performative and lacked substantial impact, revealing a broader issue with the efficacy of sanctions. He points out the problematic relationship between U.S. actions and the complex dynamics of Myanmar's geopolitical environment, particularly the role of China and regional actors like ASEAN and Thailand.The discussion also touches on the significant humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, emphasizing the need for more innovative and localized approaches to aid distribution. McLaughlin underscores the frustration and sense of abandonment felt by the Myanmar people, contrasting the international community's initial enthusiasm with its subsequent apathy post-coup.“Myanmar is not going back to what it was,” he says. “What it is in the future, we obviously don't know. But I don't think it's going back to what it was in 2012, or the 2003 era. Something fundamentally is changing here, and it's going to take a while for that all to be seen and sorted. Unfortunately, it's probably going to mean more lost lives and destruction. But I do think that something different is going to emerge from all this.”

Episode #240: Isabel Todd, speaking on behalf of the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar (SAC-M), provides a profound insight into the current situation in Myanmar, focusing on the country's struggle for justice and human rights amidst ongoing military atrocities.A critical aspect of Todd's discussion is the international community's response to the crisis in Myanmar, or rather, the lack thereof. Despite the clear evidence of genocidal atrocities committed by the military against the Rohingya, and the ongoing human rights violations since the coup, ensuring accountability and justice still seem far off. The International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) have roles to play, but their capacities are limited by jurisdictional challenges and political complexities.Todd emphasizes the importance of continued pressure on the international community to act decisively against the Myanmar military. She highlights the efforts of the SAC-M in advocating for the prosecution of military leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This advocacy extends to urging the ICC to expand its limited investigation and for the international community to uphold its responsibility to protect vulnerable populations in Myanmar.“It's so important to look at this beyond purely military terms, because this isn't a civil war. This is an uprising!” she says. “It's a revolution to rebuild what Myanmar is, and that's already happening! The sort of foundations of the federal democracy that will be established in the future, are already being built at that community and township level. This is an uprising that people are willing to happen, and there are acts of resistance that are taking place every day that aren't necessarily seen, but what's very clear as people are actively opposed to the junta.”

Episode #239: Phil Robertson paints a harrowing picture of the plight of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. He describes how migrant workers, driven by economic desperation from Myanmar, are ensnared in a system of exploitation and abuse on arriving in Thailand, despite legal frameworks intended to protect them. They face stagnant wages, hazardous working conditions, and an almost complete lack of legal protection. Employers frequently confiscate their passports, binding them to harsh and oppressive labor conditions under threat of deportation or worse.The Thai police and immigration authorities, far from being protectors, often act as predators. Robertson recounts stories of police brutality, sexual assault, and extortion, with migrant workers viewed not as human beings but as sources of illicit income. The systemic corruption and lack of enforcement of labor laws create an environment where abuse is the norm, not the exception.Robertson’s call to action is clear: significant legal and regulatory reforms are needed to protect the rights of migrant workers. He emphasizes the importance of international pressure and the role of NGOs in shining a light on these abuses. Only through concerted effort and awareness can the cycle of exploitation be broken, and dignity restored to these vulnerable workers.“I would hope that there would be an effort to somehow impress upon the Thais that eventually there's going to be peace, and eventually there's going to be a representative democratic government in Myanmar, and the people who run that government are going to be looking at how Thailand treated them and their compatriots during their hard times. Unless Thailand takes some corrective action, then Thai-Myanmar relations are going to suffer in the future because of these kinds of abuses against ordinary people.”

Episode #238: Helene Maria Kyed, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies. sheds light on the phenomenon of military defections since the 2021 coup. Historically, defections were rare and there wasn't even a Burmese term for it. Prior to the coup, soldiers might desert, but not defect, driven by dissatisfaction rather than a desire to join the ethnic resistance or other oppositional forces.The coup has changed this landscape dramatically. Defections have surged, driven by a combination of factors including ideological disillusionment with the military's actions, economic hardships, and the promise of a different future. These defectors are not just leaving their posts; they are actively joining the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) and various resistance organizations, seeking to dismantle the military's grip on power.Kyed highlights the critical role of the CDM and ethnic armed organizations in facilitating defections, offering support and safe havens to those who choose to leave. This support ranges from financial aid to logistical assistance, helping defectors escape the military's reach and start anew. However, the journey is fraught with danger, as defectors risk retribution not only against themselves but also against their families.The defection movement is not just a numbers game—it represents a profound shift in the military's cohesion and morale. By providing a pathway for soldiers to leave, the resistance is chipping away at the military's strength from within, offering a glimmer of hope for a more just and peaceful future for Myanmar.“Historically and comparatively it is quite unprecedented, and quite impressive how, not only in terms of the material support, but also the way that these different activities online have been able to move this defection forward in Myanmar,” she says. “We need to keep in mind the historical unprecedentedness not only in the Myanmar context, but worldwide, of the resilience, and impressive strategies and practices of the revolutionary movement in Myanmar.”

Episode #237: Dragos Badita, a seeker of wisdom and a skilled artist from Romania, embarked on a transformative journey to Myanmar in 2019. His desire to delve deeper into Buddhism and meditation led him to the Pa Auk Monastery, where he spent weeks immersing himself in practice. But beyond meditation, Dragos, with his artist's eye, meticulously made sketches throughout his trip, including his monastery surroundings. These drawings, filled with details that he might otherwise overlook, mirrored the patience and commitment required in both meditation and art. Through his art, Dragos reveals the profound meaning embedded in everyday scenes, such as a pair of sandals at a meditation hall's entrance symbolizing community and respect. Reflecting on his own homeland’s transition away from many years of dictatorship, Dragos draws parallels with Myanmar in expressing hope for a democratic future there, seeing the same spirit of change there. So his journey not only enriched his understanding of Buddhist teachings, but deepened his appreciation for freedom and its transformative power.Dragos points out that the Buddhist understanding he gained in Myanmar derived from lessons learned off the cushion as well. “You see monks in the morning, and it reminds you that this exists, that it's happening it has some weight to it. A lot of time has passed from when the Buddha gave the teachings, but this is still happening! The monks with the alms bowls in the morning, it is still happening after all this time.”

Episode #236: Debbie's life has been a remarkable journey, spanning continents and causes, and fueled by an unwavering commitment to activism and human rights. Born in Malaysia, Debbie’s early experiences as a crime reporter ignited her lifelong dedication to advocacy. Her journalism skills—honed in a landscape where women reporters were rare—provided her a unique lens to view and challenge societal injustices.Transitioning from journalism to activism, she found herself deeply involved in the democratic struggles in Myanmar, driven by a fascination with its people and a determination to help topple the oppressive military regime. Her activism reflects a broad fight against inequality and oppression across Southeast Asia. Her approach is deeply intersectional, recognizing the entwined struggles of various, marginalized communities. Through her leadership in alternative ASEAN networks and initiatives, she has challenged authoritarianism and helped nurture a generation of new activists, particularly empowering women to lead in their communities. This work has also extended to challenging economic injustices, advocating for inclusive policies that ensure all voices are heard and respected.“It wasn't like I woke up one morning and said, ‘I want to be a champion for human rights, and this ideal is noble ideal,’” she says. “Basically, I became a human rights activist because I was trying to solve a problem. We do need to have a more pragmatic and understanding that, yes, human rights principles are absolutely important. But we have to remember that at the center of this are human beings, we have to be human-centered in our human rights approach.”

Episode #235: Peter Morris shares his informed and detailed views on the ongoing challenges and the imminent potential of Myanmar's Spring Revolution. A lawyer and journalist by trade, Morris discusses the critical need for Western support, particularly from the U.S., to bolster the revolution, emphasizing the strategic and humanitarian benefits such backing would entail.Morris underscores the present, precarious, military situation in Myanmar. He sheds light on China's nuanced position, caught between its strategic interests and the unstable junta, suggesting that Beijing's influence could be pivotal yet is hampered by internal conflicts and a lack of clear policy direction.Throughout the dialogue, Morris articulates a clear vision for Myanmar’s future, stressing the importance of international support through humanitarian aid, which he argues would hasten the junta's fall by alleviating the burden on local resources. This support, he believes, could redefine the geostrategic landscape, particularly in relation to Chinese interests and the broader regional stability.“We still have to be patient, that's going to be key,” he says. “After all the successes that they've had going up against this powerful military, with little help from the outside, largely on their own, well, it's been an epic struggle, and they're winning! Many books will be written about this struggle. And women are involved, even on the front lines as well. It's nurses doing all kinds of other things, taking leadership roles. It's a movement, it's a revolution.”

Episode #234: Ye Htet joins the podcast to discuss his nuanced and evolving perspective on the efficacy and philosophy of non-violence in the face of Myanmar's turbulent political climate. Initially skeptical, Ye Htet's journey towards embracing non-violence began amid widespread protests following the military coup. His turning point came from diving deep into non-violence literature, which shifted his understanding from mere tactics to a deeper philosophical engagement. This shift was not just intellectual but also strategic, as he began to see non-violence not as passive resistance, but as a form of active engagement that transforms societal structures and norms.Ye Htet's commitment to non-violence is shaped by both strategic considerations and a philosophical conviction that enduring change requires more than just the absence of violence; it necessitates a foundational transformation in how power and resistance are conceptualized and enacted. His approach involves educating others about the mechanisms and principles of non-violence, fostering discussions, and building resources that support peaceful resistance. Ye Htet views non-violence as a powerful tool for societal change, one that can alter the very dynamics of power and conflict in Myanmar, moving towards a more equitable and peaceful future.Ye Htet also believes that choosing the path of non-harm is not just a net good for society, but an inner protection— and transformation— of the individual those chooses that path. “It’s a very significant chance to deviate your lines of thinking and your original approach and intentions. So that's one thing,” he says. “When you do physical violence and kill, you also kind of sacrifice a part of yourself.”

Episode #233: Jeff Vogt, Legal Director of the Solidarity Center and member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Governing Body, discusses significant labor issues in Myanmar since the 2021 military coup. Vogt explains the role of ILO Conventions 87 and 29, which Myanmar has ratified, focusing on the right to freedom of association and the prohibition of forced labor. He details the historical context of labor unions in Myanmar, noting a brief period post-2011 where laws allowed union formation and collective bargaining, although with many limitations. This period ended abruptly with the coup, leading to the dissolution of unions and a crackdown on trade union leaders.Vogt highlights the pervasive control and repression by the military that impacts both the public and private sectors. He emphasizes the severe restrictions now placed on workers' rights and the inability of workers to collectively address grievances or negotiate work conditions. Vogt also discusses the ILO's role and procedures, including the significant step of a Commission of Inquiry—a rare measure reserved for severe violations of ratified conventions. He calls for international actions and sanctions to pressure Myanmar to comply with its obligations, stressing the critical importance of organized labor and freedom of association in promoting democracy and protecting workers' rights.“The ability of workers to be able to associate and collectively form trade unions is absolutely important,” he says. “And it's not only important because of the role of workers in advocating for members of their workplace, but the role of workers in their unions in being proponents for democracy, both in the workplace and in their communities and society.”

Episode #232: Kasit Piromya exemplifies a life dedicated to the service of his country and human rights. From a long-standing career as a Thai diplomat to a post-retirement shift into politics, Khun Kasit has transitioned into a vocal advocate for democracy and civil liberties. With an unfiltered candor rare among politicians, he recently lambasted the Thai government's cozy relationship with Myanmar's military and their complicit role in illicit border activities.During this podcast episode, he underscores the stark disconnect between Thailand's historic benevolence towards refugees and its current government's cold stance towards the Burmese seeking shelter. He implores the Thai government to return to humanitarian policies, envisioning a proactive role for Thailand in aiding distressed neighbors rather than succumbing to economic entanglements with Myanmar's junta. His critique doesn’t spare regional bodies like ASEAN, challenging them to sanction Myanmar's military and to ensure aid reaches the people, not the oppressors.Khun Kasit has a direct message to those listening from inside the revolution: “To all my Myanmar friends, I think you have to be encouraged. Now, by your own efforts, congratulations, you have denied the outright victory of the Tatmadaw. They have failed in the coup d’état, and they now on the defensive side.”

In the charged atmosphere following Myanmar's 2021 military coup, a young Burmese, known as Little Activist on Twitter, radically changed from his previous political apathy to a total engagement in activism. He abandoned his studies in engineering, rejecting a degree from what he deemed an illegitimate regime. Instead, he channeled his efforts into raising global awareness about Myanmar's plight. With nearly 15,000 Twitter followers, he translates local news into English, facing frequent internet outages and significant personal risk under the watchful eyes of a repressive government.Recent developments have heightened his and many others' concerns: new conscription laws compel all citizens into military service to try and make up for the regime's recent manpower losses. The junta's measures also extend to increased surveillance and restrictions on travel, further isolating the population. Economic conditions are deteriorating rapidly, with inflation and scarcity hitting basic necessities like food and power. Amid this crisis, Little Activist voices the resilience of Myanmar's youth, their refusal to capitulate to a regime that views them as expendable. He portrays a nation in dire straits, akin to a "dark room with no doors," yet his resolve and that of his fellow activists remains unbroken, determined to keep fighting for a future where freedom is not just a distant dream.“The only thing I can say is I will never give up and I will never stop till we win! And the same like me, there are a lot of pro-democracy Myanmar people who are trying on a daily basis for our current region.”

Episode #231: Guillaume de Langre, a former adviser to the Myanmar Ministry of Electricity and Energy, addressing the military regime’s urgent need to exploit the country’s natural resources to keep afloat in the nation’s ruined economy.He first notes that while valuable ores and minerals, like gold, silver, lithium, and jade, have been integral to the military economy since at least 1990, profits from these resources have not resulted diversified, equitable development or improved living standards for the local populations. Instead, they have been a curse, subjecting those communities to exploitation and environmental hazards without significant investment in their wellbeing.But problems mushroomed following the 2021 military coup. Foreign investment and expertise evaporated amidst the ensuing instability, leaving the economy in a chokehold. With dwindling revenue, and much of the natural resource extraction having been halted, the result has been a massive loss of revenue for the military. Coupled with the their incompetent economic strategies over the years, it spells out a grim future as to how they keep the faucets on.De Langre further speculates on the post-coup economic landscape, the challenges of energy infrastructure investment, and the potential for a new social contract that could address the wealth distribution between various ethnic and regional groups. He envisions a positive future where Myanmar ultimately emerge from this turmoil, attracting foreign investment with a commitment to transparency and sustainable development. “Myanmar is not doomed! There is a path, but it will be tricky. It'll be very imperfect, and probably unequal. But there is a path,” he says in closing. “This is a moment of flux. It's a moment to propose things, and if you have an expertise… I'm sure that there are hundreds of people out there who have very specific knowledge about things that are essential to understand about development in Myanmar, and how to get out of this situation… We don't have to wait to be given permission to imagine the future.”