In terms of sheer social complexity, it has few rivals -- perhaps Lebanon, possibly the Balkans. But Myanmar's ethnic mix is truly diverse. There are some 100 languages and dialects. Major ethnic groups like the Karen, Shan, Mon, Chin and Kachin encompass others. The Chin alone have 40 subgroups. Even the majority of Myanmar citizens, some two-thirds of the total population, include numerous assimilated Mon and Karen.

While it is an anthropologist's dream, Myanmar's ethnic patchwork has proved a continuing political nightmare. Most of the ethnic minorities have, at one time or another, taken up arms against the central government. Some are still fighting, yet the destruction and deprivation visited upon minority communities is rarely reported.

While all sides in these conflicts bear degrees of responsibility for the turmoil, one salient fact stands out: No Myanmar government has addressed minority grievances in a fully fair and comprehensive manner. The spirit of "Unity in Diversity," promoted by the country's founder, Aung San, largely passed with his assassination in 1947. If minority concerns are addressed at all, then military solutions are sought for political problems. "One blood, one voice, one command" was for years a favored government army slogan.