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July 14, 2025

Fragility and Lack of Governance in Myanmar

Civil unrest remains violent in Myanmar, as 23 people were killed in an airstrike on a Buddhist monastery in Lin Ta Lu village. The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and allied resistance forces gained control of the Ukayit Hta outpost in Myawaddy Township in Karen State from junta soldiers on July 12, 2025. Two additional outposts in the area, which relied on the support from the Ukayit Hta outpost, are expected to fall shortly. This is a dramatic shift in a line of defense once called “The Living Fence,” now being referred to as the “Lifeless Fence.” Lack of stability and governance is contributing to regional challenges as well; unregulated rare earth and gold mines in Myanmar have caused significant pollution in a river leading to the Mekong, leading to high levels of hazardous materials like arsenic. Despite these challenges, a recent tariff letter from President Trump has been viewed as America’s first public recognition of the military junta’s Min Aung Hlaing as the legitimate leader of Myanmar. Min Aung Hlaing is using this opening to pursue further communications and request the lifting of sanctions.

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Wilson Center

Forced displacement represents one of the most pressing humanitarian issues of our time. Individuals and families, torn from the fabric of their communities, find themselves navigating a world of uncertainty, often without basic necessities or a clear path to safety. There are currently some 110 million forced displaced, and this number is growing by 10 million each year!

At the heart of this crisis are the political triggers. Armed conflicts, ethnic or religious persecutions, and systemic human rights abuses force millions to flee their homes in terror. Many are displaced within their own national boundaries, while others seek asylum abroad. If these factors change as a result of political shifts at home or the pressures from abroad, they can return to their homes. Forced displacement is thus different from environmentally driven displacement, as victims of climate change may never be able to return to their homes.

The ramifications of any sort of displacement are profound, not just for those directly affected, but also for host communities and countries. Overburdened infrastructures, socio-economic strains, and cultural tensions can arise, necessitating comprehensive strategies to foster harmony and integration. Yet the root causes of forced displacement can be remedied with a concerted focus by local players and international diplomacy.

Organizations like Refugees International play a crucial role in this arena, advocating for the rights and needs of the displaced, conducting on-the-ground assessments, and influencing policymakers to take informed actions. Their relentless work underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgency ofinternational cooperation. But they, too, are overwhelmed by the rapid expansion of the crisis.

International Humanitarian Law (IHL), with its core principles centered on the protection of civilians during conflicts, plays a pivotal role in this discourse. Yet, despite clear legal frameworks, compliance remains
inconsistent. This initiative emphasizes the importance of upholding and reinforcing these international standards.

It’s not just about recognizing the problem; it’s about active engagement. We urge governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize the rights and needs of the forced displaced. Through collective efforts, informed policies, and sustained advocacy, we can shift the narrative from passive acknowledgment to proactive intervention.