The Irrawaddy Magazine

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• Analysis: Who Is Burning Homes in Rakhine State?
• Locals Object to Mandalay Hill Cable Car Installation
• Police Open Case Against Former Buthidaung MP
• Climbers to Settle Dispute over Tallest Mountain in Southeast Asia
• Myanmar Govt to Fence Remaining 40-mile Border with Bangladesh
• Govt Investigates Controversial Arson Photos
• RCSS/SSA to Meet State Counselor, Likely to Focus on Ceasefire Monitoring  
• Asia Must Lead Charge for Pollution-free Planet: UN Environment Head
• Muslims ‘Refuse to Accept’ ARSA

Analysis: Who Is Burning Homes in Rakhine State? Posted: 08 Sep 2017 09:16 AM PDT MAUNGDAW, Rakhine State — In the three weeks since Myanmar security posts were attacked by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), more than 2,600 homes have been torched in more than 60 villages. Rights advocates have said that security forces and local extremist Buddhists could have committed these crimes as part of the Myanmar Army's clearance operations in northern Rakhine State, which followed coordinated attacks on police outposts by the ARSA on Aug. 25. In contrast, the Government Information Committee has said that Muslim militants burned these homes before leaving the villages, as the inhabitants seek refuge in Bangladesh. Photos and stories have gone viral depicting Arakanese and Mro Buddhists, and Rakhine Hindus being killed or injured by Muslim militants, and describing their fear of them. Muslims speak of being afraid of security forces, militants, and Buddhist nationalists as well. Area residents are apprehensive about living near other communities of which they are now suspicious. Amid this tension, the burning of homes has continued. On Thursday, Irrawaddy reporters and a group of journalists on a government-organized reporting trip witnessed that houses in at least two new villages, including a Muslim community called Gawdu Zara, had been torched. Homes on fire in Gawdu Zara. (Photo: The Irrawaddy) The presence of non-Muslim local residents armed with swords and sticks seen at the blaze of an abandoned village on Sept. 7 in Maungdaw Township triggered suspicion as to why were they were there. When asked, they answered in Burmese that they "came to look at what happened in the village," and said no more. The journalists witnessed a few of them taking household items from the smoldering homes. Some held knives and slingshots as they walked between the houses. A villager who carried away some looted household items in a cart—a mat, buckets, and kitchen utensils—told The Irrawaddy team that they "took them from those abandoned Muslims' homes," but these reporters did not hear them admit whether they had started the fire. A local non-Muslim hides his face from the camera after he was seen looting from the site of the torched Gawdu Zara village, a Muslim community. (Photo: The Irrawaddy) Further down the village road, the group of journalists saw houses freshly set alight, a jug of gasoline left on the road and matches nearby, but, from the road, could see no people. The police accompanying the journalists appeared at ease in this situation and did not interrogate or detain the looters. It is possible that they might have been curious onlookers. They could have been carrying swords for their own safety in a time of chaotic violence. But the security forces should have questioned them about their presence at the scene and about the burning homes. If they were suspicious, the police should have proceeded according to protocol. But those things didn't happen. These actions raise doubt about the authorities' framing of the situation in Rakhine State. After livestreamed reports and photos of the burning of Gawdu Zara went viral, the government said, hours later, that local administrative officials were investigating the incident. If the government did not act according to the rule of law concerning those people looting from the abandoned homes, or the arson, the whole narrative could change, affecting Myanmar's image. After just over two weeks of military clearance operations following ARSA attacks on police outposts, the UN has reported that 270,000 Muslims have fled across the border to Bangladesh; around 30,000 Arakanese Buddhists and Hindus remain internally displaced. Maungdaw Township remains under a dusk-to-dawn curfew, and many shops in the town itself have closed. As of last week, some 15 members of government security forces have been killed, as well as 370 suspected militants, as of last week. The government announced on Friday that authorities have detained 50 more people who they suspect of being ARSA members. It is unknown how many civilians have been killed in total. The post Analysis: Who Is Burning Homes in Rakhine State? appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Locals Object to Mandalay Hill Cable Car Installation Posted: 08 Sep 2017 08:59 AM PDT MANDALAY — A proposal to build a cable car at Mandalay Hill, a landmark in the cultural center of Mandalay, has been widely criticized by locals. The initial proposal, recently submitted by the Korean company Sky Dream Co. Ltd., to the regional government, was explained to local environmentalists, lawmakers and Mandalay Hill trustee committee members on Wednesday. "Mandalay Hill is a city landmark, so we must not allow any project that would affect its scenery or nature," said U Hla Moe, a local parliamentarian who was present at the meeting. Lawmakers at the event stated that locals were worried that the cable car would alter their beloved landmark. "The Mandalay Hill trustee committee and local environmentalists also expressed their concern that the cable car installation would obstruct the view from the hill," U Hla Moe explained. The project will cost about US$20 million and is expected to create job opportunities and increase visitors to the area. The suggested base of the installation is on the western side of the hill. Some locals criticize that the project is motivated by profit at the risk of environmental impacts, as the hill already has a staircase and road for visitor convenience. "I told representatives of the company that the installation would surely affect the area, so the company needs to consider the historical, cultural and religious effects," U Hla Moe added. A company consultant said the proposal was still in its initial phase, and that two to three months would be needed to complete environmental impact assessment reports. "We will do various tests such as soil tests, water tests and environmental impacts. The regional government will make a decision based on those reports," said U Mahn Tun, a consultant of Sky Dream Co. Ltd. "If the project is allowed, there will be job opportunities in both construction and operation," he said, but that relies on government approval. Mandalay Hill is about 800 feet above sea level and located northeast of Mandalay's city center. The hill is a major local travel destination and tourist attraction, where visitors can enjoy a view of Mandalay, especially at sunrise and sunset. The post Locals Object to Mandalay Hill Cable Car Installation appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Police Open Case Against Former Buthidaung MP Posted: 08 Sep 2017 08:41 AM PDT YANGON — Police have opened a case against former Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) lawmaker U Shwe Maung (aka Abdul Razak) under the Counter-Terrorism Law for allegedly supporting the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), which has been declared a terrorist organization by the government. Police Cpt Thaung Kywe of Buthidaung Myoma Police Station told The Irrawaddy on Friday that he filed a case against U Shwe Maung under Article 50 of the Counter-Terrorism Law. He said U Shwe Maung posted a video on his Facebook page, in which he supported the acts of ARSA and defended them. He said the case has now been transferred to the criminal investigations department in Rakhine State capital Sittwe and the investigation is ongoing. U Shwe Maung, a self-identified Rohingya former lawmaker reportedly now living in Texas in the United States, was elected to the Lower House seat of Buthidaung in northern Rakhine State in 2010 representing the once-ruling USDP. After he resigned from the USDP in August 2015, his candidacy to run in the general election that year was turned down. On Aug. 28, he posted a Facebook Live video on the account named MP Ro Shwe Maung in which he called for the Myanmar government and military commander-in-chief to stop all violence against self-identifying Rohingya in Rakhine State immediately, if they genuinely wanted peace and security in the region. "We won't just stand and watch the persecution. If the government and the army don't protect them, we will communicate and seek international assistance," he said in the 20-minutes of footage, in which he also said that he could not accept accusations of violence against the Muslim community. He said that any unwanted problems were the fault of the government and army chief and accused security forces of burning villages and arresting civilians in his former constituency (Buthidaung). U Shwe Maung alleged that troops had collaborated with members of the Arakan National Party (ANP), who he said had detained and even killed women and children. The government declared the ARSA – which launched a series of attacks on 30 police outposts on Aug. 25, killing 13 security force members – a terrorist organization, and said its supporters would be charged under the Counter-Terrorism Law. Subsequent violence has left 28 civilians dead, internally displaced around 30,000 Buddhist Arakanese, Arakanese sub-ethnicities, and Hindus, and sent some 270,000 Muslims fleeing to Bangladesh, according to the most recent UN figures available at the time of reporting. The post Police Open Case Against Former Buthidaung MP appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Climbers to Settle Dispute over Tallest Mountain in Southeast Asia Posted: 08 Sep 2017 06:01 AM PDT YANGON — Three climbers from the Myanmar Hiking and Mountaineering Federation will attempt to summit Mt. Hkakabo Razi in Kachin State next August, in hopes of settling a dispute over whether it is Southeast Asia's tallest mountain. The remote mountain, which is part of the eastern range of the Himalayas, has long been officially regarded as the tallest mountain in the country, measured at 19,296 feet (5,881 meters) above sea level, also making it the highest peak in Southeast Asia. The question of whether Gamlang Razi, also in Kachin State, is taller was raised after a Myanmar-US team climbed it in 2013 and recorded a height of 19,258 feet (5,870 meters) above sea level. The team claimed that the mountain was actually the highest in the country, and that the earlier estimate overstated Hkakabo Razi's height, which their digital estimations found could be less than 5,800 meters (19,028 feet). In the latest attempt to end the dispute, a team comprised of all men in their 30s: Ko Pyae Phyo Aung, Ko Aung Khaing Myint and Ko Zaw Zin Khaing, will begin their ascent in the first week of August 2018 to scientifically prove the height. Ko Pyae Phyo Aung was one of first of two climbers from Myanmar who reached the summit of Mt. Everest in May of last year, and planted a Myanmar flag. At the end of October, they will train at Ama Dablam Mountain in Nepal, which is higher than Hkakabo Razi at 6,812 meters above sea level. The trip will be sponsored primarily by the Htoo Foundation, the philanthropic branch of Burmese tycoon Tay Za's sprawling business conglomerate. The foundation donated US$35,000 for the Nepalese training trip on Sept. 6. Chairman of the Myanmar Hiking and Mountaineering Federation Dr. Nay Soe Maung told The Irrawaddy that the trio has about 10 years of experience in mountaineering and that they will be prepared for their ascent next summer. In 2014, an eight-member team from the Universities Hiking and Mountaineering Association and the Invitation of Nature (ION) Foundation made the ascent, however, only two climbers reached the ice-capped peak, becoming the first Myanmar climbers to do so, but they went missing on the descent. The post Climbers to Settle Dispute over Tallest Mountain in Southeast Asia appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Myanmar Govt to Fence Remaining 40-mile Border with Bangladesh Posted: 08 Sep 2017 04:42 AM PDT NAYPYITAW — The Myanmar government will fence some remaining 40 miles of the 170 mile-border with Bangladesh without delay, U Zaw Htay, spokesperson of the President's Office, told The Irrawaddy. He announced the plan amid news reports that there was no budget for fencing in the Home Affairs Ministry's current fiscal year. "We will fence it by all means; it won't wait until next year. We don't know where the funds will come from, but we'll do it anyway," he told The Irrawaddy after the State Counselor's Office press conference on Rakhine State on Wednesday. A high-level meeting including the members of National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) was held in Naypyitaw on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the situation in Rakhine State and issues relating to rule of law in Myanmar. President U Htin Kyaw, State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, both of the country's vice presidents, the Upper House Speaker, Military Chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing, the deputy military chief, and the ministers of home affairs, defense, and border affairs – all of whom are the members of NDSC – were present at the meeting. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Vice President U Myint Swe, Military Chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing and his deputy discussed the urgent repair and construction of fences along the Bangladeshi border, a speedy budget allowance for the process, and increasing security troops in areas where the existing border fence has been compromised. Upper House lawmaker U Khin Maung Latt of the Arakan National Party (ANP) said he believed that Parliament would approve the fencing budget if asked. "Fencing is a must. Problems arose because the fence was compromised. Compared to fences used internationally, ours are very low in quality. You can see that the fencing was broken and crossed," U Khin Maung Latt told The Irrawaddy. Border Affairs Minister Maj-Gen Than Htut has also told The Irrawaddy that his ministry is working for the development of Rakhine State and border areas as a priority. The post Myanmar Govt to Fence Remaining 40-mile Border with Bangladesh appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Govt Investigates Controversial Arson Photos Posted: 08 Sep 2017 04:00 AM PDT YANGON – The Myanmar government announced that it was investigating controversial photos posted online that claimed to show Muslim residents burning down their houses in conflict-torn Maungdaw, Rakhine State, on Thursday evening. President's Office spokesperson U Zaw Htay released a statement that warned, "Everyone will be treated equally by the law, whoever is behind the case." The photos went viral online on Thursday morning, with some local news outlets erroneously publishing the photos as news. Netizens questioned the authenticity of the photos, some pointing to inconsistencies in religious dress and others stating that the men in the photos were Hindu men that were currently sheltering in Maungdaw after their village had been burned at the end of August. In the photos, people pour fuel on thatched houses and light them on fire. U Zaw Htay tweeted the controversial images and captioned them "Bengalis [Rohingya] setting fire to their own homes." When strong public criticism resulted, the government spokesman deleted his post and stated that the government would investigate the images. He then called on the public not to behave unethically to try to prove that Muslim residents were torching their own homes, a claim that has been brought against them. Government officials have blamed the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army for torching thousands of homes, while fleeing civilians have accused Myanmar Army soldiers. Human Rights Watch analyzed satellite imagery that showed widespread burning in at least 17 distinct areas in Rakhine State since ARSA attacks on police outposts occurred on Aug. 25. The rights group has called for access to independent monitors to assess the source of the fires and the allegations. U Zaw Htay added, "Govt won't accept any fake," in his post. The post Govt Investigates Controversial Arson Photos appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

RCSS/SSA to Meet State Counselor, Likely to Focus on Ceasefire Monitoring   Posted: 08 Sep 2017 12:32 AM PDT YANGON — Chairman of the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) and commander-in-chief of its armed wing the Shan State Army-South (SSA-S) General Yawd Serk and State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi will meet soon, according to sources close to both sides. General Yawd Serk is likely to meet Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in the second week of this month, and will also meet Myanmar Army Deputy Commander-in-Chief Vice Snr-Gen Soe Win at the same time, according to sources. "We will issue a press release on the meeting in a few days," RCSS/SSA spokesman Col Sai Ngin told The Irrawaddy. The meeting is likely to focus on ceasefire monitoring since clashes have still occurred frequently between the two sides, despite the RCSS/SSA signing the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) with the government in Oct. 2015. The State Counselor's Office invited Gen Yawd Serk for talks at the end of August, according to an RCSS/SSA statement released on Aug. 24. "We welcome the State Counselor's invitation because it is a move that strengthens mutual trust toward the goal of peace," read the statement. The RCSS/SSA will form a working team to make preparations with the government side for the talks with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who is also the chairperson of the National Reconciliation and Peace Center. "We believe the visit will contribute to building trust, the peace process and building a federal Union," read the statement. However, Gen Yawd Serk told The Irrawaddy in July that 2017 might not be the "year of peace" that State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Htin Kyaw have envisioned. President U Htin Kyaw said in his Burmese New Year speech in April that they have aimed for 2017 to be a peaceful year, which State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi also stressed in her speech during the second session of the 21st Century Panglong peace conference in May. There were skirmishes between the two forces in March, April and July this year, and joint ceasefire monitoring committees at the national and state levels have not been able to address the problem. Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko. The post RCSS/SSA to Meet State Counselor, Likely to Focus on Ceasefire Monitoring   appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Asia Must Lead Charge for Pollution-free Planet: UN Environment Head Posted: 07 Sep 2017 10:08 PM PDT BANGKOK — Asia-Pacific – home to more than half the world’s population and some of its fastest-growing economies – is a key battleground in the fight against pollution, one of the biggest threats to the planet and its people, the UN environment chief said. An estimated 12 million people die prematurely each year because of unhealthy environments, 7 million of them due to air pollution alone, making pollution "the biggest killer of humanity," Erik Solheim told the first Asia-Pacific Ministerial Summit on the Environment in Bangkok this week. Humans have caused pollution and humans can fix it, said Solheim, executive director of UN Environment, in an interview with the Thomson Reuters Foundation at the four-day summit. "The struggle for a pollution-free planet will be won or lost in Asia – nowhere else," said the former Norwegian minister for environment and international development. The sheer size of Asia-Pacific, as well as its continued economic growth, put it at the heart of the challenge, he added. The region's development has been accompanied by worsening pollution of its air, water and soil. Its emissions of planet-warming carbon dioxide doubled between 1990 and 2012, and the use of resources such as minerals, metals and biomass has tripled, according to the United Nations. World Health Organization figures also show Asia has 25 of the world’s 30 most polluted cities in terms of fine particles in the air that pose the greatest risks to human health. The pollution comes largely from the combustion of fossil fuels, mostly for transport and electricity generation. Solheim said Asia is also a major contributor of plastic polluting the world's oceans – and solutions can be found in the region. He pointed to a huge beach clean-up campaign in Mumbai that inspired Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to overhaul the country's waste management system. "There's enormous environmental opportunity," Solheim said. "Asia has by and large strong governments, and they have the ability to fix problems." Coal No Longer King? Solheim said fighting pollution by moving towards renewable energy sources such as wind and solar would also benefit efforts to curb climate change, which scientists say is stoking more deadly heatwaves, floods and sea level rise around the world. But environmentalists worry that Asia's demand for coal, the most polluting of the major fossil fuels, is likely to grow for years to come. Figures from a forum organised by the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center in Singapore earlier this year show that some 273 gigawatts of coal power are still being built, although much more has been put on hold. In July, analysts told the Thomson Reuters Foundation that Japan, China and South Korea are bank-rolling coal-fired power plants in Indonesia despite their pledges to reduce planet-warming emissions under the Paris climate deal. The landmark 2015 Paris Agreement seeks to limit the rise in average world temperatures to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial times. Experts say curbing or ending the use of coal is required if this goal is to be reached. Globally, many countries – including China – are shutting down or suspending plans for coal-fired power plants as costs for wind and solar power plummet. Solheim is optimistic, noting that the International Energy Agency significantly raised its five-year growth forecast for renewables led by China, India, the United States and Mexico. "There are very, very few people in the world who believe that the future is coal," he said. "I think we will see the shift [to renewables] happening much faster than people tend to believe." On US President Donald Trump's decision to pull his nation out of the Paris Agreement, Solheim sees a silver lining. "The surprising judgement of history may be that Donald Trump did a lot of service to this fight against climate change by withdrawing, because he galvanized the reaction of everyone else," said Solheim. "All the big, iconic companies of modern capitalism – Apple, Google, Microsoft, Amazon – they immediately said, 'We will move into the green economy.'" The post Asia Must Lead Charge for Pollution-free Planet: UN Environment Head appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Muslims ‘Refuse to Accept’ ARSA Posted: 07 Sep 2017 07:30 PM PDT MAUNGDAW, Rakhine State — Muslims in northern Rakhine State's Maungdaw Township told The Irrawaddy they have rejected the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army's (ARSA) attempts to recruit villagers in recent weeks. Self-identifying Rohingya villagers from the Shwe Zar village tract—an area home to 13,000 people, most of whom are Muslims, but among the residents are Hindus and Buddhists—told The Irrawaddy that they had responded firmly to pressure from the group. Sarad Ah Mein, a medic from Shwe Zar's Kat Pa Kaung village, said ARSA members had approached the village tract committee weeks ago about recruitment. "They came at night," he said. "We refused to accept the terrorists' mobilization. Our committee rejected them in their approach," he told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday, referring to the ARSA. The organization has been denounced as a terrorist group by the government after it attacked 30 police outposts on Aug. 25. Military clearance operations have since ensued in the region, and 146,000 Muslims have fled to Bangladesh, according to UN figures. The government has said that 27,000 Buddhist and Hindu villagers are internally displaced. "We told them, 'please don't trouble the villages. If you do so, we all will suffer a lot. Please go back,'" Sarad Ah Mein said, recalling the meeting. "We all have been living with Rakhine [Buddhists] here and we haven't had any problems. We want to keep living in that way." Mamud Jolly, another villager from Shwe Zar, reiterated the community's rejection of the ARSA's tactics. "We don't accept them. We don't support any terrorism act. That's what I want to say." Sarad Ah Mein alleged that to speak negatively about the ARSA was dangerous, and that to do so would be a risk to their lives. According to the government statistics, 63 Muslims have believed to have been killed by militants between October 2016—when the first attacks on police outposts were launched—and mid-August of this year. Displacement and Insufficient Aid  Since the Aug. 25 attacks, the Myanmar government has responded to the ARSA with intensified military action in the region, causing mass displacement across communities. Northern Rakhine State remains embroiled in conflict and those internally displaced or trapped in their villages are in need of humanitarian aid. Maungdaw, once a bustling border town focused on trade, had grown quiet on Wednesday, when The Irrawaddy visited. Few shops opened, and many houses appeared locked. The area remains under a dusk-to-dawn curfew, but administrative staff who fled to the state capital of Sittwe last week have since returned. The Shwe Zar area saw a clash between Muslims and Hindus on Aug. 26 in a village bazaar, after which Hindus and Buddhists reportedly fled. Apart from this, Shwe Zar initially seemed to have been spared some of the violence of the surrounding areas, which has included the torching of homes and mass displacement. According to an update from the Government Information Committee on Wednesday, 6,845 houses in 60 villages had been burned down. The government said the fires were set by the ARSA and its supporters. Militants, in turn, cite the army as the perpetrators. But the number is almost certainly higher at the time of reporting, as The Irrawaddy witnessed the burning of dozens of houses in Gawdu Zara Muslim village, near Maungdaw, on Thursday afternoon. There are also reports that houses were torched near Kyein Chaung village—home to both Buddhists and Muslims—on Wednesday night. Munee, a Muslim woman and mother of four from the Shwe Zar tract, told The Irrawaddy that villagers were short of food since the bazaar had closed. "We are told by the police just to stay in our village and not to worry," she said. Her husband works in Malaysia, Munee explained, adding that he was unable to transfer her necessary funds because markets, shops and private banks were closed. "I don’t know what to say. We just cry and cannot think of anything," she said. "We can’t go out either to Maungdaw or to other villages. We have no support from either from the government or NGOs." Sarad Ah Mein explained that villagers have had to halt their work as fishermen and traders, as they are confined to their villages. The consequence, he said, "is that we are in need of food." Yet government representatives maintain that they are providing aid to those in need. Local and national civil society groups are offering support to some of the displaced, but many remain beyond the reach of these efforts, particularly in overcrowded temporary relief camps. As is true elsewhere in Myanmar, women and children make up the majority of the displaced in Rakhine State. Hindus taking shelters at one of eight relief camps in Maungdaw told The Irrawaddy on Monday that they want to go home as soon as possible, but only with a guarantee for their security. However, Maungdaw District administrator U Ye Htut said that the district remains an "operational area," or a conflict zone. The post Muslims 'Refuse to Accept' ARSA appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

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The Irrawaddy Magazine

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• ‘Lack of Awareness’ Hinders Fight Against Workplace Discrimination
• India Supports Myanmar in Tackling Terrorism
• Abstract Animals: Modernist Painter Soe Naing’s New Exhibition
• Mon State Police Put on High Alert
• South Korea Deploys Anti-Missile System as US Seeks Tough North Korea Sanctions
• UNFC: On the NCA Path

‘Lack of Awareness’ Hinders Fight Against Workplace Discrimination Posted: 07 Sep 2017 08:20 AM PDT YANGON – The Myanmar Center for Responsible Business (MCRB) launched its research on combating discrimination in the Myanmar workplace on Thursday at the Rose Garden Hotel, Yangon. Lack of awareness, director Vicky Bowman said, is the biggest obstacle in this regard. "Awareness is not coming through education, not coming through leadership, not coming through law and government," she explained, adding that students in Myanmar schools are "not taught about diversity and inclusion," which then continues into the workplace. "We would like to see all companies combat discrimination and make a commitment to having inclusivity, diversity and equal opportunity as core business values," Ms. Bowman said. The briefing paper presented at the event aimed to help companies address discrimination in hiring practices, and provides practical recommendations to companies to address challenges, including forging a policy commitment, implementation, and grievance mechanisms. It was highlighted that within Myanmar, groups vulnerable to discrimination by authorities, society, and legal mechanisms include women, ethnic and religious minorities, the LGBT community, people living with HIV, and those with disabilities. Program director of the Myanmar Deaf Community Development Association, U Kyaw Kyaw said he has experienced this first-hand. "I have faced numerous types of discrimination in society and the workplace. It become my strength; it pushed me to be a rights defender for disabled people," he explained, calling on all people to collaborate to build a community based on equality. Vicky Bowman acknowledged that people with disabilities have more barriers to confront and face discrimination in education, infrastructure, and in the needs that go unmet in the workplace and through cultural practices. The paper stated that out of 17.2 million children in Myanmar, 1.35 percent—or more than 232,000 are living with disabilities. According to the 2014 census, of these, 65 percent are not enrolled in formal education. The lack of education opportunities clearly has a significant negative impact in later life of the children with disabilities. In June 2017, MCRB held a consultation meeting in order to air concerns on discrimination, and formed recommendations to businesses in the briefing paper Executive director of Colors Rainbow, Daw Khin Ma Ma Aye, stated at Thursday's launch that it is common for LGBT people to experience discrimination in the hiring process, as they deal with problems with ID cards and self-stigmas. "It's important to have awareness and understanding of diversity of gender in the workplace from an HR session," she said. Some individuals face discrimination for multiple parts of their identities, for example women who are members of ethnic minorities, or women with disabilities. The paper is a part of a series published by MCRB. Other papers include "Indigenous People's Rights and Business in Myanmar," and "Land," and "Children's Rights and Business." The post 'Lack of Awareness' Hinders Fight Against Workplace Discrimination appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

India Supports Myanmar in Tackling Terrorism Posted: 07 Sep 2017 06:39 AM PDT YANGON — Myanmar and India discussed incidents of terrorism and extremist-inspired violence during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goodwill visit to Myanmar this week, according to a joint statement released Wednesday. Modi expressed his country's support for the Myanmar government regarding the ongoing violence in northern Rakhine State, spokesperson of the Myanmar President's Office U Zaw Htay told The Irrawaddy. "His visit has long been planned, but coincides with [violence in Rakhine State]. India itself is countering terrorism, and he showed support for Myanmar. This will help Myanmar in the international community," said U Zaw Htay on Wednesday. The two countries agreed that terrorism violates human rights and there should be no glorification of terrorists as martyrs, encouraged the international community to end selective and partial approaches to combating terrorism and urged the finalization and adoption of a comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism by the UN General Assembly, according to the statement. It is the policy of the government to prevent terrorism from taking root on Myanmar's soil and State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi highlighted this stance in her talks with Modi, said U Zaw Htay. Myanmar is also cooperating with India regarding the situation of the Naga people on the border of Myanmar and India. "Bilateral relations between India and Myanmar began before independence. There is a great deal of cooperation between two countries, and we will continue cooperating. The two countries need to accelerate their cooperation in line with bilateral agreements," he said. U Zaw Htay told The Irrawaddy that Myanmar and India had agreed to greater cooperation in tackling terrorism after Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri declared in a 2014 video message that the group had a new branch targeting India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. "India has its own security agencies and we have our own," Myanmar National Security Advisor U Thaung Tun told reporters in Naypyitaw on Wednesday. "So we maintain frequent contact. India also has a national security advisor. We attend meetings together and have cooperation." During Modi's visit, Myanmar and India signed 11 agreements—including three agreements with the defense ministry and one with the home affairs ministry—in the capital Naypyitaw on Wednesday. The two countries signed agreements covering cooperation in marine security, education, culture, health, the development of Rakhine State, and the establishment of an international-standard hospital in Naypyitaw. "We are friendly neighbors and cooperating in various sectors. The two countries are discussing to cooperate in defense, science and technology and health, and have signed agreements in the pharmaceutical and trade sectors. We also discussed India's purchase of beans and pulses from our country," said U Thaung Tun. The two governments signed an agreement for a cultural exchange program under which India will provide assistance to renovate whitewashed murals at Ananda Temple in Bagan at a cost of US$4 million. Another agreement for further assistance in maintaining ancient religious structures in Bagan is likely to be signed soon, said Union minister for Religious Affairs and Culture Thura U Aung Ko, who added that India's diplomatic support for Myanmar was "invaluable." "While international community is misled by one-sided allegations about the western side of Myanmar, [Modi's] trip will bring great diplomatic support for the righteousness of Myanmar," said Thura U Aung Ko. The Myanmar government and members of the public have accused international figures and media of being biased on reporting on violence in Rakhine State. After several meetings in Naypyitaw, Modi met with the Hindu community in Yangon on Wednesday evening. Secretary Dr Hla Tun of the Thanantara Dhammapalaka (Hindu) Association who attended the meeting told The Irrawaddy over the phone on Thursday morning that about 7,000 Hindus joined the event at Thuwana football stadium. The Indian Prime Minister addressed the crowd for around 50 minutes and highlighted the historical background of India and bilateral relations between Myanmar and India. Before his official visit to Myanmar, Mr. Modi said that his country would deport from India nearly 40,000 self-identifying Rohingya refugees. On October 25, the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army attacked 30 border outposts in Maungdaw, Buthidaung and Rathaedaung townships, displacing 20,000 non-Muslims Dozens of Hindus were reportedly killed by Muslim militants. The Hindu Association condemned the violent attacks by militants and urged the government to investigate. Dr. Hla Tun speculated that "the attacks on Hindus were likely in response to Modi as he mentioned Rohingya deportation before the visit." The post India Supports Myanmar in Tackling Terrorism appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Abstract Animals: Modernist Painter Soe Naing’s New Exhibition Posted: 07 Sep 2017 03:29 AM PDT YANGON — Myanmar modernist painter Soe Naing is known for his skilful manipulations of lines. His depictions of humans, dogs, cats, and horses astound art pundits for their vigorous, yet dexterous, brushstrokes. Soe Naing's exhibition 'Dancing Soe Naing' is at OK Gallery at Aung San Stadium (North Wing) from Sept. 9 to 13. For his latest solo exhibition—titled 'Dancing Soe Naing' and at OK Gallery at Aung San Stadium (North Wing) from Sept. 9 to 13—Soe Naing showcases dancing creatures with his trademark colorful and energetic style which he describes as "freedom of movement of lines." Some dancing figures hold swords and others a four-edged dagger—the royal regalia of Myanmar monarchs. And, all of them seem carefree. Soe Naing does not like drawing portraits from life, so he creates according to his own imagination. Soe Naing's exhibition 'Dancing Soe Naing' is at OK Gallery at Aung San Stadium (North Wing) from Sept. 9 to 13. "If I am to draw a dog, I feel like it is freer to draw it as I remember, rather than watching and copying it. And I think it is more alive. Typically, I draw dogs, cats and humans," Soe Naing told The Irrawaddy. The exhibition will display 50 paintings prices between US$400 and $800. Soe Naing's exhibition 'Dancing Soe Naing' is at OK Gallery at Aung San Stadium (North Wing) from Sept. 9 to 13. Soe Naing has presented his paintings at over 20 solo exhibitions internationally and art collectors world wide—including the Singapore Art Museum—have purchased his paintings. "I love lines. I like drawing small creatures because this allows me to draw many curved lines. I'm happy with those lines," said Soe Naing. Soe Naing's exhibition 'Dancing Soe Naing' is at OK Gallery at Aung San Stadium (North Wing) from Sept. 9 to 13. The post Abstract Animals: Modernist Painter Soe Naing's New Exhibition appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Mon State Police Put on High Alert Posted: 07 Sep 2017 01:20 AM PDT MAWLAMYINE, Mon State — Police in Mon State capital Mawlamyine have been put on high alert in response to government and military statements alleging that the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) plans to attack the city, Mon State chief minister Dr. Aye Zan said on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the government and Myanmar Army said in separate statements that administrative capital Naypyitaw and commercial hubs Yangon, Mandalay and Mawlamyine could be potentially targeted by ARSA—declared a terrorist organization by the government following attacks in Rakhine State's Maungdaw Township on Aug. 25. "We've put the police force on alert and we are also planning to reinforce them with extra police" Dr. Zye Zan told The Irrawaddy, adding that he could not provide more details. Tuesday's army statement speculated that ARSA had foreign ties and alleged that members had received training abroad as migrants, though did not elaborate. The attacks could be planned to coincide with the 72nd regular session of the UN General Assembly which will start on Sept. 12, speculated the statement, to win international attention about the conflict in Buthidaung and Maungdaw townships in Rakhine State. It also speculated that ARSA conducted terrorism training to some Myanmar migrant workers in a foreign country some fours ago, and said the trainees are expert at making mines with locally available materials. According to Mawlamyine's Mupon Police Station, local police stations have increased patrols around the town both day and night. "Previously, we only conducted bicycle patrols at night, but we are conducting them during the daytime now," said Police Sub Lieutenant Yu Mon Saw of Mupon Police Station. "We also run motorbike and car patrols and sentries. We've also increased security in Mawlamyine University Dr. Aye Zan labelled the attacks in Rakhine State a threat to national sovereignty. On Aug. 30, Mon State security and border affairs minister Col. Win Naing Oo met Muslim leaders in Mawlamyine and urged them not to accept strangers without national IDs at mosques as a security measure, said U Ohn Thaung, vice-chair of the Islamic Religious Affairs Council. "There was no violence in Mawlamyine except throwing of stones between Buddhists and Muslims in what can be called as a religious riot around 1983. Since then, there has been no violence," said U Ohn Thaung. The post Mon State Police Put on High Alert appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

South Korea Deploys Anti-Missile System as US Seeks Tough North Korea Sanctions Posted: 06 Sep 2017 09:58 PM PDT SEOUL, South Korea — Protesters clashed with thousands of police at a South Korean village on Thursday as components of a controversial system to guard against North Korean missiles were deployed, while China and the United States discussed options to deal with Pyongyang. The United States wants the United Nations Security Council to impose an oil embargo on North Korea, ban its exports of textiles and the hiring of North Korean laborers abroad, and subject leader Kim Jong Un to an asset freeze and travel ban, according to a draft resolution seen by Reuters on Wednesday. Pressure from Washington has ratcheted up since North Korea conducted its sixth and largest nuclear test on Sunday. That test, along with a series of missile launches, showed Pyongyang was close to achieving its goal of developing a powerful nuclear weapon that could reach the United States. Amid the rising tensions, Seoul installed the four remaining launchers of the U.S. anti-missile Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system on a former golf course in the south early on Thursday. Two launchers had already been deployed. More than 30 people were injured when around 8,000 South Korean police broke up a blockade of about 300 villagers and civic groups opposed to the THAAD system deployment, fire officials said. The decision to deploy the THAAD system has drawn strong objections from China, which believes its radar could be used to look deeply into its territory and will upset the regional security balance. "See What Happens" US President Donald Trump has urged China, North Korea's biggest ally and trading partner, to do more to rein in its neighbor. US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said he has an executive order ready for Trump to sign that would impose sanctions on any country that trades with Pyongyang if the United Nations does not put additional sanctions on North Korea over its nuclear tests. Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping committed on a phone call on Wednesday to "take further action with the goal of achieving the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula", the White House said. "President Xi would like to do something. We'll see whether or not he can do it. But we will not be putting up with what's happening in North Korea," Trump told reporters, although he offered no specifics. "I believe that President Xi agrees with me 100 percent," he said. Asked whether he was considering a military response to North Korea, Trump said: "Certainly, that's not our first choice, but we will see what happens." Xi told the US president during their 45-minute call that the North Korean issue must be resolved through "dialogue and consultation". The United States had set aside for now consideration of terminating a U.S. trade agreement with South Korea, a senior administration official said on Wednesday. The trade issue is unrelated to North Korea but has been a source of tension between the two allies. Moon, Abe Meet Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean President Moon Jae-in spoke at a regional meeting in the eastern Russian city of Vladivostok and agreed to persuade China and Russia to cut off oil to North Korea as much as possible, according to South Korean officials. Abe also invited Moon to a trilateral meeting between China, Japan and South Korea in Tokyo and Moon said he would be happy to attend if such a summit happened. Japan's Kyodo news agency reported that Abe and Moon would seek Russian and Chinese support for new sanctions against the North. However, sanctions have so far done little to stop North Korea boosting its nuclear and missile capacity as it faces off with Trump. China and Russia have advocated a "freeze for freeze" plan, where the United States and South Korea would stop major military exercises in exchange for North Korea halting its weapons programmes, but neither side is willing to budge. North Korea says it needs to develop its weapons to defend itself against what it sees as US aggression. South Korea and the United States are technically still at war with North Korea after the 1950-53 Korean conflict ended with a truce, not a peace treaty. The post South Korea Deploys Anti-Missile System as US Seeks Tough North Korea Sanctions appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

UNFC: On the NCA Path Posted: 06 Sep 2017 07:20 PM PDT On August 15, the Federal Political Negotiation and Consultative Committee (FPNCC) hosted Myanmar's other major ethnic bloc, the United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC), led by Nai Hong Sar, in Pangsang, headquarters of the United Wa State Army (UWSA). According to Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) sources, the blocs discussed potentially collaborating in order to expedite talks with the government and focused on a common vision for establishing a federal democratic Myanmar. But FPNCC attempts at persuading UNFC to abandon the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA)—with an emphasis on the military's rejection thus far of the UNFC's entire nine-point proposal—ultimately failed, as, according to UNFC spokesperson Twan Zaw, the UNFC decided to stay on the NCA path. The question of why the UNFC persists with the NCA path, despite all of the agreement's perceived flaws, is best answered in the bloc's background, current military situation, and internal politic dynamics. For the UNFC, the NCA is the preferable, but not necessarily plausible, option. History of the UNFC Expectations were high for the UNFC when it formed in November 2010. Comprised then of 12 ethnic armed organizations, many, particularly ethnic minorities, believed the bloc could strike a deal with the government and military in order to end Myanmar's perennial civil wars. In 2014, however, the Karen National Union (KNU) suddenly withdrew its membership. One year later, in October 2015, two other members—the Pa-O National Liberation Organization (PNLO) and the Chin National Front (CNF)—were suspended from the council after signing the NCA, which other members had rejected because it was not all-inclusive of the country's many armed groups. The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) resigned from the bloc in 2016, followed by the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) and the Wa National Organization (WNO) in 2017. Now the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) is the latest withdrawal from the UNFC. The SSPP submitted a letter of resignation to the UNFC on August 12. Only four of the original UNFC members remain: the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP); New Mon State Party (NMSP); Arakan National Council (ANC); and Lahu Democratic Union (LDU). Rather than achieving its lofty aims of building ethnic unity, establishing a genuine multi-party system, and introducing a peaceful federal Union, the UNFC instead has fragmented. The majority of its members, including the strongest, have pulled out. It has reached a critical juncture, a time of survival. Why the NCA path? UNFC members have shown interest in signing the NCA before the third round of the Union Peace Conference. Tellingly, the NMSP told Aung San Suu Kyi during a recent meeting that the bloc could sign the NCA. Three main reasons can be drawn for the UNFC's willingness to sign the NCA. The first is to deter possible attacks from the Tatmadaw, though clashes have occurred between it and NCA signatory Shan State Army-South and its armed wing the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS/SSA-S). According to a member of the UNFC, they are concerned joining the FPNCC might result in Tatmadaw attacks, which would lead to the displacement of hundreds or thousands. Kachin and Ta'ang people currently surviving in internally displaced people's (IDP) camps exemplify this. The Tatmadaw also has stronger military capabilities than each member. According to "Deciphering Myanmar's Peace Process: A Reference Guide 2016," the active military personnel of the NMSP is about 1,000, the KNPP is more than 600, the LDU is about 150 and ANC is about 100. Some observers say signing the NCA is the only way the UNFC can avert conflict. The second reason is international pressure, especially from Thailand. Myanmar Army chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing visited Thailand in May 2016, meeting Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and military top brass, and visited again in August for a Thailand-Myanmar High-Level Committee meeting. According to the Myawady Daily, Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing said bilateral relations between the two armed forces and two countries were strong. He may have asked Thailand to encourage the UNFC, which has its headquarters in northern Thai province, Chiang Mai, to sign the NCA. Thailand has received tens of thousands of refugees because of conflicts between the Tatmadaw and KNU. Undoubtedly it would want its neighbor to avoid imploding into another civil war. And the third: geography, as the UNFC and FPNCC would find it difficult to ally with their territories buffered by Tatmadaw-controlled land. Aside from these reasons, the UNFC would not have received assurance that the FPNCC would offer protection if one of its members came under attack. Five of the seven FPNCC members have been targets of Tatmadaw offensives, with only the UWSA and National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA) not engaging in clashes. The FPNCC does not have a policy of standing shoulder-to-shoulder in order to protect each other and is more of a political alliance. But the NCA quagmire is prolonging Myanmar's journey to peace. UNFC general secretary and leader of the Delegation for Political Negotiation (DPN), Khu Oo Reh, told the government Peace Commission in August that after 14 months of talks, the level of trust was "at zero." Union Peace Dialogue Joint Committee (UPDJC) member Sai Kyaw Nyunt also complained the process of the NCA had become more complex after two years. RCSS/SSA Gen Yawd Serk accused the Myanmar Army of not abiding by NCA terms after the Myanmar military attaché in Bangkok banned a July meeting of the Committee for Shan State Unity in Chiang Mai. The Myanmar Army has also collided with NCA signatories. For instance, a central committee member of signatory All Burma Students' Democratic Front (ABSDF) was arrested in Kachin State for unlawful association last December and was only recently released. The Tatmadaw and NCA signatory RCSS clashed in July 2017; apparently ignoring terms such as informing the other prior to crossing the other's controlled areas. Still, the UNFC pursues the NCA as a means of achieving peace in Myanmar. The government and the bloc have so far agreed on half of the bloc's nine-point proposal, but the Tatmadaw has not agreed on UNFC concerns regarding ceasefire monitoring, a military code of conduct, demarcation, and troop relocation. The Tatmadaw may do well accepting the points as a token of appreciation of the UNFC's commitment. The success of the NCA hinges on the parties—particularly the Tatmadaw, a major driver for the peace process—and whether they genuinely commit with an unwavering political will. UNFC's willingness to sign the NCA is welcomed and its members may boost the stalled peace process. Hopefully, the government and Tatmadaw will show the courage and magnanimity to accept ethnic demands and respond suitably, for the sake of the future of this country. Joe Kumbun is the pseudonym of a Kachin State-based analyst. The post UNFC: On the NCA Path appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

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Will Myanmar lead drug policy reform in Southeast Asia? Posted: 07 Sep 2017 08:01 AM PDT Myanmar is better known for its serious drug problems - including large-scale illicit drugs production and trafficking and high rates of heroin use - than for implementing progressive drug policies that prioritise the health of its population. However, this could change in the near future. Change is in the air Myanmar is better known for its serious drug problems - including large-scale illicit drugs production and trafficking and high rates of heroin use - than for implementing progressive drug policies that prioritise the health of its population. However, this could change in the near future. Last year, Police Colonel Myint Aung, head of the International Department of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC), commented in an interview that legislative changes were being considered to "make [drug use] a health issue, rather than a criminal one".[1] More recently, Major General Aung Soe, the military-appointed deputy Minister for Home Affairs, declared to a Member of the Parliament that "prevention and judicial strategies are not enough to solve drug problems," and that "the economy, social affairs, health and development must [also] be taken into consideration".[2] This changing approach to tackling drug issues is reflected in a draft bill that was approved by the upper house of the Parliament ("Amyothar Hluttaw") on the 16th of August. The text proposes to introduce several amendments to 1993 Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law and, most notably, to eliminate prison penalties for drug use. In a country where failing to register as a drug user can lead to 3 to 5 years imprisonment, and where up to 74% of all inmates are in prison for – mostly minor – drug-related offences,[3] the step is  significant. However, if Myanmar policy makers really want drug users to be seen as people who need help and support, rather than as merely criminals, it is fundamental that they also extend the exemption from prison penalties to include the possession of small amounts of drugs for personal use. The decriminalisation of drug use has long been advocated for by numerous organisations, including several local and international NGOs and UN Agencies.[4] In February this year, the Drug Policy Advocacy Group – Myanmar (DPAG), a civil society platform, also released a briefing that recommended ending the criminalisation of drug use and increasing access to health, harm reduction and voluntary treatment for drug users, among other interventions. Indeed, extensive evidence from around the world shows that, while the fear of prison penalties is not an effective deterrent against drug use,[5] it does have a substantial negative impact on the health of drug users and the community at large.[6] What benefits can be expected from the current drug law reform? The elimination of prison penalties for drug use will no doubt generate a debate in Myanmar. Already numerous people, including parents and teachers, are raising an important and legitimate question: what will happen if Myanmar stops arresting and incarcerating drug users? Won't the country witness a further increase of drug use, especially among young people? The best way to answer this question is to look at what has happened in the more than 30 countries that have already conducted similar reforms, albeit using very different models.[7] Among those, the case of Portugal is emblematic, as results have been closely monitored and speak for themselves. In 2001, the Portuguese Government announced that it would decriminalise drug use and scale up health and social interventions for drug users. Opponents strongly criticised the Government's decision and predicted a rampant increase of drug use among the youth, or even the impending transformation of Portugal into a haven for "drug tourists". More than 15 years later, none of these predictions have materialised. Instead, Portugal's policy has been saluted as one of the most successful in the world due to overwhelmingly positive results: the transmission of HIV and other blood-borne diseases sharply decreased; the number of deaths by overdose dropped; the number of drug users entering drug dependence treatment programmes increased dramatically, while the number of drug users and problematic drug users, especially among adolescents, fell. Finally, overcrowding in the criminal justice system reduced and crimes related to drug consumption, in particular petty thefts, declined.[8] Several countries in Latin America have also carried out legal reforms that pursued the same objective and decriminalised drug use. In Southeast Asia, neighbouring Thailand is considering introducing similar changes to reduce prison overcrowding and respond more effectively to drug use related problems.[9] Myanmar's decision to prioritise a public health and human rights approach, in line with the 2016 UNGASS Outcome Document, is a highly encouraging move that sharply contrasts with the intensification of the war on drugs and the increase of violence observed in the Philippines and a few other countries in the region.[10] Of course, every context is unique, and it is always difficult to anticipate the impact of a given policy change. However, the numerous experiences around the world clearly show that the harms of criminalisation far outweigh those of decriminalisation.[11] The Myanmar government's intention to eliminate prison penalties for drug use is therefore excellent news and must be applauded. A closer look at the proposed changes, nevertheless, reveals that the draft bill recently approved by the upper house of the Parliament still contains problematic aspects. Four of them, in particular, require special attention: the continued criminalisation of drug possession for personal use; the imposition of compulsory treatment for drug users; the heavy criminalisation of small-scale subsistence poppy farmers; and the continued possibility of using the death penalty for drug related offences. Fortunately, it is not too late to incorporate additional amendments to the text. The following sections propose calibrated but essential changes that Members of the Parliament could consider as priorities. These would assuredly help to improve the lives of tens of thousands of people suffering from drug related problems in the country. Full Link Story : goo.gl/mFo4aE

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The Irrawaddy Magazine

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• High-Level Govt Meeting Held for Rakhine Conflict
• Security Advisor: NLD Govt Capable of Managing Rakhine Crisis
• UN Secretary-General Calls for ‘Holistic Solution’ in Rakhine
• Rakhine Statement by Malala Yousafszai Met With Ire
• Nationalist Activists Sentenced to Six Months in Prison
• Parliamentary Committee to Examine 24 State-Owned Factories
• Toward National Security Based on Human Rights
• New Rakhine Police Chief Appointed
• Mon State Parliament to Debate Controversial Cement Factory
• Turkish President Calls State Counselor on Rakhine Situation
• Climate Change: A Permanent Reality for Myanmar

High-Level Govt Meeting Held for Rakhine Conflict Posted: 06 Sep 2017 09:51 AM PDT A high-level meeting including the members of National Defense and Security Council (NDSC) was held in Naypyidaw on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the situation in Rakhine State and issues relating to the rule of law in Myanmar. Joining the talks were President U Htin Kyaw, State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, both of the country's vice presidents, the Upper House Speaker, military chief, deputy military chief, and the ministers of home affairs, defense, and border affairs—all of whom are the members of NDSC. The only NDSC member absent was the Lower House Speaker U Win Myint, who is now on an overseas trip. Since the NLD government came to power last year, no meetings of the 11-member executive NDSC body have been held. The meeting was also joined by National Security Advisor U Thaung Tun, the ministers relief and resettlement and the State Counselor's Office, and the Deputy Minister for the President's Office. The President said that during the meeting, the government raised the security alert as a preventive measure, and emphasized that people should be informed that the top authorities were coordinating on the issues at hand not to cause public panic. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Vice President U Myint Swe, Military Chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing and his deputy discussed the urgent repair and construction of fences along the Bangladeshi border, a speedy budget allowance for the process, and the beefing up of security troops in areas where the existing border fence has been compromised. The discussions also included how security and regional stability is now being carried out on the ground, as well as details of assistance to internally displaced persons. It was also decided that legal action would be taken against those involved in attacks on security forces and civilians, and that humanitarian assistance would be provided without racial or religious discrimination toward anyone affected. According to the latest UN figures, 146,000 self-identifying Rohingya Muslim refugees have arrived in Bangladesh, and 27,000 internally displaced Arakanese and Hindus are also in need of aid, following militant attacks on police outposts in Rakhine State on Aug. 25, and army clearance operations which have followed. The post High-Level Govt Meeting Held for Rakhine Conflict appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Security Advisor: NLD Govt Capable of Managing Rakhine Crisis Posted: 06 Sep 2017 09:22 AM PDT NAYPYITAW — Myanmar's National Security Advisor U Thaung Tun said on Wednesday that the civilian government is capable of managing the situation in northern Rakhine State despite calls for a state of emergency and martial law to be implemented. The area has been struck by conflict most recently since Aug. 25, when the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army launched attacks on 30 police outposts. The Myanmar government denounced the group as a terrorist organization and the army proceeded to launch clearance operations in northern Rakhine State, forcing self-identifying Rohingya Muslims, Buddhist Arakanese and Hindus to flee. As of Tuesday, the UN confirmed that nearly 125,000 Muslim refugees have arrived in Bangladesh from Myanmar, while the government said that around 27,000 Arakanese, Arakanese sub-ethnicities, and Hindus have been internally displaced. During a press conference on Rakhine State at the State Counselor's Office in Naypyitaw, U Thaung Tun said the National League for Democracy (NLD) government is keeping a constant eye on the issue. "We have discussions about how to respond to the situations in Rakhine. We have enough resources to handle the situation," he told The Irrawaddy when asked if military administration would be put into place in the region. The army said during a press conference on Aug. 29 that their request to the government for martial law in Buthidaung, Maungdaw and Rathedaung Townships in northern Rakhine State did not materialize. On Wednesday, U Thaung Tun said the government had deployed more troops to the conflict zone, including members of the police and army. Prior to the Aug. 25 attacks, the President had already held meetings with the security advisor, Ministry of Defense, Home Affairs and Border Affairs on Rakhine State issues. "The decision on whether to have martial law or not was made in the meeting. We are prioritizing the security and well-being of displaced people now," he told The Irrawaddy. Regarding the Kofi Annan-led Rakhine Advisory Commission's recommendations for the region, the security advisor said that actions that are required to be carried out urgently will be implemented, dependent on the situation on the ground. "As the commission recommends, we are now dispatching the media to Maungdaw as well as humanitarian aid to the people out there," U Thaung Tun said. He also added that the conflict in Rakhine would be a pressing issue at the upcoming convening of the UN General Assembly this month, and that China and Russia would stand up for Myanmar at the Security Council, as U Thaung Tun himself had lobbied for their support. "Our police outposts were attacked. We are not the ones who launched the offensive. Internationally, it is right to respond to this attack, but we do so carefully and systematically. We don't use excessive force," he said. The President's Office spokesperson U Zaw Htay said during a press conference that 371 suspected militants had been killed by security forces and 38 arrested, adding that nationwide security alerts have been raised based on intelligence information. The post Security Advisor: NLD Govt Capable of Managing Rakhine Crisis appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

UN Secretary-General Calls for ‘Holistic Solution’ in Rakhine Posted: 06 Sep 2017 09:16 AM PDT YANGON – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for the prevention of further escalation and a holistic solution to conflict in Rakhine State, as the UN has confirmed that 125,000 self-identifying Rohingya refugees have fled to Bangladesh in recent weeks. The UN Secretary-General sent an official letter to the UN Security Council about his concerns in the region, adding that the issues facing the Muslim community in Rakhine State "have festered for far too long and are becoming an undeniable factor in regional destabilization." Self-identifying Rohingya Muslims have been fleeing to neighboring Bangladesh since the army launched clearance operations in northern Rakhine State on Aug. 25, following attacks by the Arakan Rohinya Salvation Army (ARSA) on 30 police outposts. The Myanmar government denounced ARSA as terrorist organization. The UN Secretary-General told media, "I have condemned the recent attacks by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army. But now we are receiving constant reports of violence by Myanmar's security forces, including indiscriminate attacks." In the Tuesday announcement, Guterres also urged the Myanmar government to provide security and aid to those who need it. "It will be crucial to give the Muslims of Rakhine state either nationality or, at least for now, a legal status that will allow them to have a normal life, including freedom of movement and access to labor markets, education and health services," the secretary-general said. UNHCR spokesperson Duniya Aslam Khan said in a statement that Kutupalong and Nayapara camps hosting refugees in Bangladesh are at a "breaking point," with people staying in any available space, including community centers and schools. "We are running out of available space," she said. On Tuesday, Myanmar State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi reportedly said, "we make sure that all the people in our country are entitled to protection of their rights as well as the right to and not just political but social and humanitarian defense," when speaking to the President of Turkey on the phone regarding concerns about the crisis in the region. Meanwhile, within Myanmar, about 27,000 Arakanese, sub-ethnicities, and Hindus have also been displaced due to the violence in Rakhine State. According to the Government Information Committee, in total there have been 97 clashes in the area between security forces and the ARSA from August 25 until September 5. On Tuesday, UN agencies requested US$18 million to fund three months worth of aid efforts to assist refugees in Bangladesh. The post UN Secretary-General Calls for 'Holistic Solution' in Rakhine appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Rakhine Statement by Malala Yousafszai Met With Ire Posted: 06 Sep 2017 08:53 AM PDT YANGON— A tweet by Pakistani female education activist and Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafszai in support of Myanmar's self-identifying Rohingya Muslim population has attracted criticism from some in Myanmar. The 20-year-old winner of the Nobel Peace Prize called on Myanmar's State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi to condemn the treatment of Rakhine's Muslim minority in a tweet labeled "My statement on the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar." "Over the last several years, I have repeatedly condemned this tragic and shameful treatment. I am still waiting for my fellow Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi to do the same," Malala Yousafszai said in a statement She called for the end of violence, for self-identified Rohingya to be given citizenship, and for other countries, such as Bangladesh, to give food, shelter and education to refugees. After militants from the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) launched a series of attacks on 30 police outposts on Aug. 25—killing 13 members of the security forces. Subsequent violence has left 28 civilians dead, displaced 27,000 Arakanese, Arakanese sub-ethnicities, and Hindus internally, and sent 146,000 mainly Muslim refugees fleeing to Bangladesh, according to the most recent UN figures available at the time of reporting. The statement—which had garnered nearly 25,000 retweets and 19,000 replies by Wednesday evening—was widely commented on by international media and netizens; among the latter were also critical responses. Many claimed to previously support Malala Yousafszai for her courage in confronting the Taliban on female education issues, for which she was shot in the face, but accused her of ignoring the plight of ethnic Arakanese and Hindu affected by the violence and failing to denounce ARSA for their violent attacks on security forces and civilians. Legal expert U Khin Maung Myint told The Irrawaddy the young activist had riled the population by failing to condemn militant attacks. "[The situation] is not about racial and religious discrimination, it became about terrorists' attacks on civilians including Arakanese, Hindus, Muslims and other. It is important and she missed it," he told The Irrawaddy. "I strongly condemn Malala's one-sided comments, [she does not] understand the real situation of Myanmar," Shwe Cin Ei, a Facebook user, posted. A Twitter account by the name of Thant Zin Oo retweeted the statement, commenting: "I really appreciate what you have done especially fighting against some unpractical social norms for girls' education. Therefore, I think you have huge a responsibility for your actions and your words. Regarding the crisis in Myanmar, of course our hearts are also broken whenever we see pictures, videos and news about people dying regardless of who they are. However, I am wondering if you have even seen some pictures or videos of local people being killed very brutally by extremist terrorists." The post Rakhine Statement by Malala Yousafszai Met With Ire appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Nationalist Activists Sentenced to Six Months in Prison Posted: 06 Sep 2017 06:55 AM PDT YANGON — Nationalist activists Ko Win Ko Ko Latt and Ko Naing Win Tun were sentenced to six months in prison by the Bahan Township Court on Wednesday for staging a protest in Yangon without permission. Another nationalist activist, Ko Poe Tha, was sentenced to one month in prison, but he was released on Wednesday after the time was served during the pre-sentencing detention period. The three staged a protest in July last year against the terminology used by Myanmar's representative at the 32nd session of the UN Human Rights Council. He used the phrase "Muslim community in Rakhine State" to refer to self-identifying Rohingya in the region. Three monks, including nationalist monk U Parmaukka of the Association for the Protection of Race and Religion—better known by its Burmese acronym Ma Ba Tha—and four nationalists including Ko Win Ko Ko Latt are facing a trial at the Kamayut Township Court for staging a protest against the terminology of "Rohingya community" in front of the American Embassy in July last year. They are charged with defaming the government. Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko The post Nationalist Activists Sentenced to Six Months in Prison appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Parliamentary Committee to Examine 24 State-Owned Factories Posted: 06 Sep 2017 06:49 AM PDT NAYPYITAW — The Lower House Investment and Industrial Development Committee will consider the termination or privatization of 24 loss-making state-owned factories—including the Myingyan Steel Factory which has received significant state investment. Committee member U Aung Kyaw Kyaw Oo said: "A total of 24 factories are making a loss, most were suspended when parliament discussed the Union budget [in early 2017]. Now, we are gathering data and inspecting those factories on the ground." "We will report findings [to Parliament] and decide if those factories should continue operation or not." The committee formed two teams comprised of officials from the Planning and Finance Ministry and the Ministry of Industry and representatives of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) to assess the profit and loss of those factories, said U Aung Kyaw Kyaw Oo, who is also Yangon's Hlaing Township lawmaker representing the National League for Democracy (NLD). "We have invited expression of interests from businesspeople to operate those factories. We'll discuss with interested parties and privatize some, turn some into joint ventures, and terminate some as necessary," he added. Steel plants in Myingyan Township, Mandalay Region and Pangpet in Taunggyi Township, Shan State; paper mills in Thabaung Township, Irrawaddy Region, and a heavy industry in Thagara, Bago Region are among the biggest to be inspected, said Myingyan Township lawmaker U Paw Khaing, who is also the secretary of the committee. "Myingyan steel plant is a large-scale investment, so it is a waste to close it down. We will examine its pros and cos. If it is not viable, we have to shut down. We have to look for long-term benefits," he said. Permanent secretary of the Ministry of Industry U Ko Ko Lwin told The Irrawaddy in a press conference in August 2016 the National League for Democracy-led government has privatized three loss-making factories—glass factories in Kyaukse, Mandalay Region and Pathein, Bago Region and a fire-resistant bricks factory in Pathein and closed down a chemical industry which was transferred from military-owned Myanma Economic Holdings Ltd to the industry ministry. Privatization and closure of state-owned factories needs the approval of the government's economic committee led by State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, he said. The Ministry of Industry operates 103 factories which operate on their own, are leased to private businesspeople, or operate as a joint-venture or profit-sharing. The ministry plans to keep Myanmar Pharmaceuticals as a state-owned factory. According to the committee, expressions of interest (EOI) have been invited for No. 14 Heavy Industry (Thagara) three times, but no one has shown interest. Likewise, no company has submitted an EOI for No. 26 Heavy Industry (Thagara). EOIs have been received for two heavy industries in Thagara and Sinte (in Mandalay Region) as well as for No. 1 Steel Plant (Myingyan) and No. 2 Steel Plant (Pangpet), No. 23 Heavy Industry (Nyaungkyayhtauk), near Thagara, and Plastic Factory (Kyaukse). Eight textile factories in Sagaing Region, Pakokku in Magwe Region, Myingyan, Shwetaung, Myittha, Pyawbwe and Yamaethin in Mandalay Region manufactured school uniforms, surgeon's gowns, linen, bandages and cotton wool. No. 6 Textile Factory in Monywa needs major repair, and EOI will be invited for No. 10 Textile Factory (Taung Tha) in Mandalay Region. EOI will be also invited for two pulp factories in Irrawaddy Region's Thabung Township. The ministry is considering leasing rubber products factory in Yangon's Tingangyun Township to Stellar Power House Co. Ltd., as well as No. 32 Heavy Industry (Kyangin) in Irrawaddy Region to Asia Square Co. Ltd. and a glass factory in Pathein to Excellent Fortune Development Group. The post Parliamentary Committee to Examine 24 State-Owned Factories appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Toward National Security Based on Human Rights Posted: 06 Sep 2017 04:07 AM PDT "Human rights have caused violent attacks" and "human rights protect and abet violence" are arguments I have frequently seen on social media. As a human rights educator, I am sorry to see such arguments, and it has called me to analyze the public perception of the very essence of human rights. It can be seen clearly in history that human rights emerged to prevent discrimination and violence. The international concept of human rights is based on human dignity regardless of race or religion. Humans value peace. As people tried to bring justice after the genocide and war atrocities committed in World War II, the concept that all humans are equal in dignity and rights emerged, along with the idea that discrimination in any form should not be permitted. People began to accept that every person and government are responsible for preventing human rights violations. It is an incorrect argument [regarding Rakhine] that national security and human rights are two different things. National security should mean acting to protect the life and property of all those living in the country. The genuine act of national security is protecting the rights of all. Protection of rule of law and security should benefit human rights. The unnecessary restriction or violation of the rights of people in the name of national security is unacceptable. International human rights treaties clearly state that freedom of movement may be restricted in times of national security emergencies but that human lives may not be harmed. The preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights reads, "Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world." It is clear that human rights are intertwined with peace. Regarding the ongoing violence in Rakhine State—whatever reason behind it and whoever commits it—violence is violence. A civilized society will not accept violence for any reason. A community that respects human rights condemns any violence—not only in Myanmar but also around the world. Human rights is the foundation of peace, and this cannot be promoted through violence. Violence seriously threatens the life and security of people, and is against the essence of human rights. The violence in Rakhine State puts the security of thousands of people, especially women and children, at risk. Violence creates an endless circle of hatred and retaliation, and worsens unfairness and injustice. It is the responsibility of everyone with respect for human rights to strongly condemn any form of violence by anyone. Violence does not serve, but sabotages human rights. Violence is not an answer, but mutual respect between human beings is. Societies need to bring justice for the victims of human rights violations, no matter who the perpetrators are. It is the responsibility of every person to condemn the violation of these rights. True human rights contribute to permanent peace. Human rights is about equality, mutual respect and recognition of diversity, which are the key elements of peace. It focuses on harmony between individual rights and collective rights. Only promotion of such human rights culture can bring about peace. And only with peace can human rights be protected even more so. Promotion of human rights is not only about condemning violence but also creating pacifists instead of aggressors. Those who respect human rights should regard any violence as an assault on mankind—not only when it is targeted at them. Human rights does not discriminate. It is a humane notion that rejects any and all violence. Aung Myo Min is the executive director of Equality Myanmar, a Yangon-based human rights defender and promoter. The post Toward National Security Based on Human Rights appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

New Rakhine Police Chief Appointed Posted: 06 Sep 2017 04:01 AM PDT YANGON — Amid violence in Rakhine State, Myanmar's Ministry of Home Affairs replaced chief of Rakhine State Police Force Police Col Sein Lwin with deputy chief of Shan State Police Force Police Col Aung Myat Moe. Police Col. Sein Lwin served in the position for 19 months and has been transferred to Bago Region Police Force, he told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday. "I think [the move] is transferring the appropriate person to the appropriate place to meet work requirements," Police Col Sein Lwin said. During his tenure as the chief of Rakhine Sate Police Force, two deadly militant attacks on police outposts in Maungdaw District in northern Rakhine prompted large security operations. In the aftermath of attacks on border guard police outposts in Maungdaw last October—in which nine police officers were killed—Police Brig-Gen Thura San Lwin replaced Police Brig-Gen Maung Maung Khin as the chief of border guard police force. Months-long police and Myanmar Army security operations were dogged by allegations of human rights abuses including arson, rape and extrajudicial killings and saw an estimated 75,000 self-identifying Rohingya Muslims to flee to Bangladesh. After militant attacks launched on Aug. 25, violence in Rakhine has claimed the lives of 13 members of the security forces, two government employees, 28 civilians—including 14 Arakanese, seven Hindus, and seven self-identifying Rohingya Muslims—and 371 suspected militants, according to a government Information Committee statement released Wednesday. More than 6,800 houses in 59 villages were torched and eight bridges were destroyed by mines, said the statement. Some 146,000 Muslims have fled across the border to Bangladesh since Aug. 25, according to a UN source cited by Reuters and nearly 27,000 people are internally displaced, according to the Myanmar government. The reshuffle also saw transfers in Magwe and Mandalay regions. The post New Rakhine Police Chief Appointed appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Mon State Parliament to Debate Controversial Cement Factory Posted: 06 Sep 2017 02:07 AM PDT MAWLAMYINE, Mon State — Mon State Parliament agreed on Tuesday to debate the legality of a cement factory's controversial coal-fired power plant in Mon State's Kyaikmayaw Township The proposal was submitted by Mon State lawmaker U Aung Kyaw Thu who also questioned the residency of foreigners in the cement plant. "Power generation without permission is a blatant violation," he told Mon State Parliament. "Though it is said that no one should be above the law, existing laws are hardly ever followed," he said, adding that local and foreign investors failing to abide by laws damaged the dignity of the new government. The US$400 million cement factory run by Mawlamyine Cement Limited (MCL)—a joint venture between Thai firm Siam Cement Group (SCG) and Pacific Link Cement Industries—is powered by a 49-megawatt coal-fired power plant. Last month, the committee for the assessment of financial, planning and economic matters in the Mon State Parliament asked the Ministry of Electricity and Energy about the coal-fired power facilities the cement factory. The ministry replied that it had not approved power generation with coal. However, MCL managing director Mr Surachai Pornjindachote said in a statement on Aug. 29 that the cement factory received permission from the Mon State Directorate of Industrial Supervision and Inspection to run a 20-megawatt coal-fired turbine valid from January 2017 to Feb. 15, 2018. Lawmaker U Aung Kyaw Thu argued the coal-fired power plant did not seek approval under the 2014 Electricity Law and the 2016 Mon State medium- and small-scale electricity supply by-law According to the Electricity Law, heavy-scale electricity production—classified as 30 megawatts and above—needs the approval of the Union government. Production of less than 30 megawatts needs the approval of the concerned region or state governments. MCL has violated both provisions, said chairperson of Mon State Parliament Bill Committee Daw Khaing Khaing Lei. "They can only generate electricity with permission. This is not my remark, but the remark of the Union ministry," she said. She said the Directorate of Industrial Supervision and Inspection had only given permission to operate a boiler, but not to produce electricity. In MCL's Aug. 29 statement, Surachai Pornjindachote said they were keen to use other sources of energy for cement production if it was able to provide sufficient and reliable energy. The factory started commercial operations in April despite local residents staging several protests against the cement factory over health concerns. Coal to power the 5,000-ton cement factory is imported from Indonesia and Australia, and so far over 200,000 tons of coal have been imported. Lime used in cement production comes from Mount Pya Taung in Kuam Ngan village in Kyaikmayaw Township, where a semi-open mining system has been used to reduce environmental impact, said mining engineer Ko Myo Thiha of MCL. The Irrawaddy was not able to obtain comment from MCL. The post Mon State Parliament to Debate Controversial Cement Factory appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Turkish President Calls State Counselor on Rakhine Situation Posted: 06 Sep 2017 12:53 AM PDT YANGON — In a phone call to the Turkish president, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said the government was working to protect all the people in Rakhine State "in the best way possible" and would do its best to "stop terrorism spreading" across the region, according to the State Counselor's Office. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called the State Counselor on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the recent outbreak of violence in northern Rakhine State, triggered by a militant attack on police stations that has so far caused the displacement of more than 130,000, the majority of whom are Muslims fleeing to neighboring Bangladesh. Many in Turkey, a constitutionally secular state with a Muslim majority population, have expressed concerns over the exodus and the treatment of Muslims affected by the violence. President Erdoğan said he is confident that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as a leader who has faced and overcome challenges and an advocate of human rights, will approach the situation with a vision of a long-term solution, according to the office. President Erdoğan added that news and photos of the conflict have sparked worldwide concerns, said the office. "We know very well, more than most, what it means to be deprived of human rights and democratic protection. So we make sure that all the people in our country are entitled to protection of their rights as well as the right to not just political but social and humanitarian defense," the State Counselor replied. During the conversation, she said there should be no spreading of misinformation, citing the Turkish deputy prime minister's tweet of fake pictures concerning the situation in Rakhine. She said it was, "simply the tip of a huge iceberg of misinformation calculated to create a lot of problems between different communities and with the aim of promoting the interest of the terrorists." She said Turkey has faced the challenges of terrorism and has to cope with the Kurdistan Workers' Party or PKK, a group demanding equal rights and Kurdish autonomy in Turkey. The government would ensure "terrorism does not take root in Myanmar" and spread across the region, she added. President Erdoğan has recently accused Myanmar of "genocide" against self-identifying Rohingya Muslims. Reuters reported that Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will travel to Bangladesh on Wednesday evening to hold meetings about the fighting in Rakhine. The post Turkish President Calls State Counselor on Rakhine Situation appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

Climate Change: A Permanent Reality for Myanmar Posted: 05 Sep 2017 07:32 PM PDT In May 2008, Cyclone Nargis struck Myanmar, causing loss of lives and widespread destruction of property. The category 4 cyclone strongly reiterated two facts: climate change and its repercussions have to be recognized and tackled; and, secondly, a natural disaster has the ability to bring people and civil society organizations together for re-building the spirit of the country. It was a critical moment of reflection for the nation, to take stock of its vulnerability and preparedness against an enemy which had generated havoc and panic for all. According to the 2016 Climate Risk Index, Myanmar is the second most vulnerable country in the world to the effects of climate change. The intensity and regularity with which cyclones make landfall have increased with every year, with the delta region affected by tropical storms and the dry zone impacted by debilitating droughts. Researchers at the Center for Climate System Research at Columbia University, in collaboration with the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, have stated that the country could see a rise in temperature by 1.3 and 2.7 degrees by the middle of the century along with increase in precipitation by 2 percent to 12 percent in 2011-40, 6 percent to 27 percent by 2041-70. This is evident from the 2010 severe drought, a year which saw temperatures rise up to 47.2 degrees Celsius, a sure sign of global warming hitting the country hard. Dry seasons have become longer with shorter rainy seasons, thus inviting hardships for people in the form of water shortages and flooding respectively. Both plant and animal life are bound to struggle due to the occurrence of anomalies in the natural environment. Shrinking of glaciers in the Himalayas can affect water supplies in rivers like the Irrawaddy and inundation of coastal areas with salt water can destroy agricultural production and trigger forced migration. According to data collected by the International Earth Science Information Network of Columbia University, over 5 percent of the country's land area lies below 5 meters in elevation, home to 11 percent of the population, estimated to climb to nearly 14 percent by the end of the century. This could have grave consequences for an agrarian country like Myanmar, where agriculture is the main source of livelihood. A post-Nargis disaster case study revealed that decades of poor environmental policy had resulted in reduction of mangroves by approximately 75 percent along the country's coastline. This further exposed Myanmar to the ravages of climate change. Also low-lying regions like Rakhine are predicted to be more affected in the future. This in turn could lead to more ethnic clashes as this region could see a surge in environmental refugees pushing their way into other regions or crossing borders to seek shelter in Bangladesh. Climate change is forcing people to break man-made boundaries but future conflict is most likely to occur on issues of sovereignty, territory, resources and belonging. This could add volatility to the religious/inter-community clashes already existing in Myanmar. Climate change will also exacerbate heat and water related diseases like malaria, dengue, and diarrhea. The report titled "A Situational Analysis of Disaster Risk Reduction in Myanmar-DRR Working Group, June 2013" states that the Global Adaptation Institute ranked Myanmar 167 out of 176 countries surveyed, which not only shows its vulnerability but also its low capacity of adaptability to negotiate climate risks. The report further pointed out that over 2.6 million people could be affected by natural disasters in Myanmar. Fast paced economic growth, unsustainable agrarian practices, indiscriminate logging and mining can further put pressure on natural resources and ecology, endangering local communities. Poor governance, weak laws and lack of climate smart planning can add to the challenges. In recent years, Myanmar has seen massive city development plans and a construction boom. But often these decisions are made without considering long-term environmental impacts. Disappearance of green spaces, the ignoring of subsidence risks and inadequate water management systems in a city like Yangon are well-known problems. The latter is very much evident every year during the torrential monsoon rains which hit the city. Aung Khant observes that the Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC) seems to lack proper equipment and is involved in constant repair work rather than initiating improvements. Although nature is blamed for flooding, it is known that reservoirs and waterways have been subjected to landfills during the military regime, thus leaving no room for excess water to escape. Also, the designs and the building materials used for stylish high rises are imported with no connection to the local landscape or the tropical weather. Damon Zumbroegel, of the architectural firm Vihara Studio, believes in the strength of Myanmar's traditional green architecture which uses locally available materials and is more sustainable for cooling. These indigenous methods need to be promoted to tackle climate change impacts as they could be much more effective, cheaper and more viable than imported technology. Environmental NGOs like ALARM and Green Lotus are trying to create awareness around green technologies. A similar kind of promotion of local building techniques to combat natural disasters like floods and earthquakes is also happening across the border in North East India- a region which regularly faces displacement on account of rivers changing courses and tectonic shifts. A three-day-training workshop on the promotion of bamboo housing was held in Assam in February 2017. This was jointly organized by the Assam forest and environment department, the South Asia Bamboo Foundation, and the Building Material Technology Promotion Council, along with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation. Everyone participated to promote traditional bamboo housing, to be used in building schools, hospitals, rural community centers, and eco-tourism cottages. Ikra, the traditional bamboo frame structure, is being re-popularized over cement structures. Although the former is better at withstanding earthquakes and natural disasters (as evident in the Sikkim 2006 earthquake), people tend to use concrete as it is considered modern and a status symbol. Ikra not only preserves the housing structures better, but it is cheaper and more sustainable in the soft mountain soil. Bhutan and Indonesia, like Myanmar, have also witnessed unpredictable phenomena linked to climate change. In Bhutan, the severity and frequency of windstorms have increased as well as loss of crops due to unusual outbreaks of pests and diseases. The country also runs the risk of seeing more forest fires in the future (Thinley 2015). Indonesia has seen the disappearance of the phenomenon of 'bulan janda" (widow month), a period of 44 days of strong winds blowing from the south when fishermen would avoid venturing into the sea. Nobody understands the reason for this disappearance. Is global warming responsible, considering that higher temperatures can alter the scale of circulation (Banerjee 2015)? Myanmar has initiated various interventions to combat climate change. The Myanmar Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan 2016-2030 is relevant for the future. The Myanmar Climate Change Alliance (MCCA) has worked with various stakeholders- ministries, civil society groups, private sector and communities. The 2013-2015 UNDP Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Disaster Risk Reduction Project promoted participation of local communities in adaptability, preparedness and mitigation. It also worked on including gender in the climate change narrative by supporting the inclusion of the gender dimension in all areas: environment impact analysis, environmental standards/procedures and multi-hazard risk information. Myanmar needs to generate and disseminate more climate risk information at the local level so that community leaders can better coordinate with villagers. It also needs to record the responses of species and ecosystems to climatic changes. Application of local knowledge to weather impacts needs to be systematically compiled and documented. Public services like health, sanitation, flood warning systems and evacuation plans need to be further developed. Building the capacity and resilience of agriculture, tipping point identification and monitoring, mangrove protection, designing climate proof plans for infrastructural development, and recognizing at-risk neighbourhoods in urban areas are some of the immediate steps that Myanmar could take. The Chinese NGO, Global Environment Institute in 2015, in combination with an alliance of Myanmar NGOs and Blue Moon Foundation, provided solar panels and clean cooking stoves to Myanmar's villages, an effort through the South-South Cooperation Fund for Climate Change set up in 2014 to reduce emissions. This seems like a welcome step towards promoting renewable energy and charting out new territories of green partnership. The biggest challenge, however, in any country lies in getting people to converse about climate change. There is insufficient visibility for the topic (in the media, in academic discourse, in fiction writing, in art galleries) although its impact is felt daily. Amitav Ghosh, the much acclaimed writer whose recent book The Great Derangement is on climate change, laments the absence of fiction writings/imagination on it. He states that it seems the issue is reduced to 'extraterrestrials or interplanetary travel'. Myanmar's civil society needs to bring this issue more into the public domain for debate and solution-finding exercises. The government has already invited World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to conduct a natural capital assessment and WWF has chosen creative ways of sharing the results by launching a website and an instagram campaign, hosting a photography exhibition showcasing the country's relationship with nature and encouraging people to engage deeply through panel discussions. Visual medium and art is used to convey information and get feedback which will ultimately help the country in making land use and conservation policies. School curricula, college clubs, community associations, and local conservation-cum-heritage boards should seize every opportunity to broaden the canvas of participation; climate change has brought the global and the local closer: a global phenomenon which requires sustained local resourcefulness. Local governance, engagement of farmers and local leaders in decision making, better management of food and water systems, gender-sensitive climate change strategies will all go a long way in achieving growth – green, sustainable, equitable. Works Cited Banerjee, Reshmi (2015), "Climate Change in the Eastern Himalayas: Lessons to be Learnt" in Hazarika, Sanjoy and Banerjee, Reshmi (eds), Climate Change in the Eastern Himalaya- Impact on Livelihoods, Growth and Poverty, Delhi, Academic Publications, p.181. Thinley, Pema (2015), "Climate Change Impacts and Policies in Bhutan" in Hazarika, Sanjoy and Banerjee, Reshmi (eds), Climate Change in the Eastern Himalaya- Impact on Livelihoods, Growth and Poverty, Delhi, Academic Publications, pp. 156-157. This article originally appeared in Tea Circle, a forum hosted at Oxford University for emerging research and perspectives on Burma/Myanmar. The post Climate Change: A Permanent Reality for Myanmar appeared first on The Irrawaddy.

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