Myanmar’s Military Regime: A Closer Look at Its International Allies and Domestic Propaganda

Myanmar’s Military Regime: A Closer Look at Its International Allies and Domestic Propaganda

Belarus and Russia: Allies in Arms

The military regime in Myanmar, consistently embroiled in accusations of war crimes against its own population, has recently been declared a reliable partner by Belarus in the Asian region, a sentiment previously expressed by Russia’s President Putin. Belarus and Russia distinguish themselves as part of a small group of countries that continue to supply arms to the Myanmar junta. This controversial alliance has drawn international attention and raised questions about the motivations and implications of such partnerships.

While the Myanmar junta focuses efforts on promoting its administrative capital, Naypyitaw, as a tourist destination amid ongoing conflicts, the state-owned broadcaster Myanma Radio and Television (MRTV) plays a crucial role in spreading junta propaganda. Since the 2021 coup, MRTV has been disseminating disinformation about the country’s situation, claiming economic improvement and discrediting the popular revolt against the regime. In stark contrast, independent media outlets face severe repression, with journalists frequently being forced into hiding or imprisonment.

(Read Also: Myanmar Junta Accused of Looting and Airstrikes: An Escalation of Conflict)

China’s Influence: Surveillance and Census Assistance

In addition to seeking support from Belarus and Russia, the Myanmar regime is also turning to Beijing for assistance. This includes aid in conducting a census and introducing a surveillance system in the country. These efforts indicate a broader trend of the junta seeking to strengthen its grip on power and control over the population.

Despite the junta’s claims of economic improvement, recent events suggest a different story. Lt-Gen Moe Myint Tun, who held the chair of three key economic bodies, has been removed amidst corruption charges. Investigations into these charges are ongoing and are believed to be connected to the regime’s attempts to manage soaring prices, revealing underlying economic instability and mismanagement.

(Read Also: Indonesia and ICRC Discuss Myanmar Crisis at UN General Assembly)

Nuclear Ambitions: Myanmar’s Request to China

Reports suggest that the Myanmar regime has requested nuclear training from China at a regional forum. This is a continuation of the military’s long-standing pursuit of Russian nuclear expertise, indicating the junta’s ambitious and potentially dangerous plans for the future.

The complex web of international alliances, propaganda, domestic surveillance, economic instability, and nuclear ambitions paints a concerning picture of the current situation in Myanmar. As the junta continues to tighten its grip on power and seeks further support from international allies, the road to peace and democracy in Myanmar appears increasingly fraught and complex.

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