Myanmar's Fragmented Democracy: Transition Or Illusion?

"There is a growing interest in the social, political, and economic development of Myanmar. Given the extent of the military junta in Myanmar to stymie democracy in the country throughout its history, this would surely be a timely examination of its democratic process thus far. The military coup on 1 February 2021 is yet another historical moment to rewrite the country's political process. The arrests of the National League for Democracy leaders and supporters, not least its leader Aung San Suu Kyi, certainly seem to spell more trouble for the country now more so than in the past. The challenges and issues that have plagued the country over the years, especially with the Rohingya crisis, have taken centre stage of the country's political landscape. The influence of the US and China, as well as other regional players, continue to play a significant role in Myanmar and how has that changed the country and what would this mean for Myanmar. The role of the Tatmadaw and its political allies, such as the UnionSolidarity and Development Party, will continue to be important, but more so, the way it has changed the Myanmar political landscape and the need to re-examine the influence these institutions have in Myanmar"--
The author examines the political transformation of Myanmar since its attempt at democratic reforms and democratization in 2010, the challenges faced since independence in 1948, and the impact of the recent military coup by the armed forces (Tatmadaw) in 2020. He describes the political history of the country between 1948 and 2008; the 2010, 2015, and 2020 elections and their impact; conflicts between the Union Solidarity and Development Party, the National League for Democracy, and the Tatmadaw; how the conflict between ethnic minorities and the Bamar/Burman population has dominated the country's political landscape in the last decade; the conflict between Rohingya Muslims and the mainly Buddhist population; and Myanmar's geopolitical engagement. Annotation ©2022 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)