Ever since widespread protests by Myanmar citizens erupted against the military coup, more than 750 people have died in crackdowns by the Tatmadaw (the national army) and police forces. Many refugees have fled to neighboring countries. This domestic turmoil is causing much concern and becoming an issue with serious regional and international implications.
Despite harsh criticisms leveled against the violence and sanctions being imposed by some international community members, the Tatmadaw has shown no signs of easing up on the crackdown.
The declared state of emergency appears likely to last longer than one year. The protracted conflict has already led to the disruption of the national economy, destabilized people’s lives and livelihoods and fed concerns about the possibility of becoming a failed state. If the conflict escalates between the Tatmadaw and the National Unity Government (NUG) and the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), the danger of a greater civil war breaking out will likely increase.