Myanmar's Junta Announces Enforcement Of Military Service Laws For Youth
Myanmar's junta announces enforcement of military service laws for youth as Myanmar's internal strife persists. Since the military took control of the government from the civilian administration in February 2021, there has been an increase in the number of battles with ethnic militias and anti-coup groups.
Author:Hajra ShannonReviewer:Paula M. GrahamFeb 12, 2024449 Shares34.5K Views
Myanmar's junta announces enforcement of military service laws for youthas Myanmar's internal strife persists. Since the military took control of the government from the civilian administration in February 2021, there has been an increase in the number of battles with ethnic militias and anti-coup groups. As a result, the army has suffered several defeats.
The new order mandates that all males between the ages of 18 and 35, as well as females between the ages of 18 and 27, are required to serve a minimum of two years under the control of the military. This mandate goes into effect immediately. Although no additional details have been provided, the junta has declared that the defense ministry will be responsible for issuing the appropriate regulations and directives.
A string of significant defeats has been inflicted upon the military throughout the past few months. Towards the end of the previous year, three ethnic rebel groups in Shan State, which were supported by other anti-government armed forces, took control of important border crossings and trade routes with China.
A month ago, the Arakan Army (AA) announced that it had taken control of Paletwa, Chin State, as well as the last military position in Paletwa township, which is located in Meewa. Myint Swe, a former general who was installed as president of Myanmar by the military, has repeatedly warned that the country is in danger of becoming fragmented if the government is unable to bring an end to the current fighting.
In 2010, Myanmar enacted a law permitting conscription, yet its enforcement has remained dormant until now. According to this legislation, individuals may be obliged to serve for up to five years during a state of emergency, with those failing to comply facing potential imprisonment for the same duration.
In 2021, the country's junta declared a state of emergency, which was recently prolonged for an additional six months. This move comes after Myanmar's decades-long struggle under oppressive military rule, transitioning towards democracy in 2011.
However, on February 1, 2021, the military seized control of the nation, plunging it into turmoil. Since then, disorder and conflict have plagued the country, resulting in over a million people being displaced and thousands being killed.
The military's recent engagements with ethnic armed groups, some resulting in defeats and retreats, have drawn criticism and raised doubts among its supporters. According to a local monitoring group, the military's crackdown on dissent has resulted in the deaths of over 4,500 individuals, with more than 26,000 people arrested.
Hajra Shannon
Author
Paula M. Graham
Reviewer
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