Description:
Summary: "Ethnic conflict in Burma pre-dates independence. With
preparations for the 2010 elections underway, there is a need for
a renewed focus on the complex political and ethnic divisions
within the country. Whilst many do not believe that the election
will be a true reflection of the people?s wishes, there are areas in
which the junta have made political and peaceful gains. Critics of
the regime, however, believe that the election will only further the
government?s hardline stance towards dissenting groups.
· Despite on-going conflicts, 18 armed ceasefires have been
agreed. The ceasefires have allowed for improvements but have
created new problems in Burma?s border areas. However, these
agreements serve as potential models for wider peace
agreements and reconciliation.
· In the autumn of 2009 some of the ceasefires broke down and
there was renewed instability on the Burma China border as
clashes broke out between the Kokang and the Tatmadaw
(Burmese armed forces) resulting in refugees fleeing to China.
· The Tatmadaw (the Burmese military) is trying to force ethnic
minority militias to become a border guard force prior to the 2010
elections. This is being resisted by a number of ethnic militia
groups such as the Kachin and the Wa. However any further
break down of these ceasefire agreements will bring renewed
instability to Burma.
· Involvement and pressure from Burma?s allies and critics have
had little noticeable effect on conflict resolution as the drivers of
the ethnic conflict are ultimately internal."
Source/publisher:
Chatham House
Date of Publication:
2009-11-23
Date of entry:
2010-08-29
Grouping:
- Individual Documents
Category:
Language:
English