The Government in Myanmar Announces Compulsory Military Service
Date: 10 February 2024
The government in Myanmar has recently declared compulsory military service for all young men and women amidst the ongoing turmoil in the country. This announcement comes as the military has faced a series of defeats in battles against ethnic militias and anti-coup fighters in recent months.
Forced Military Service: A New Development
The move, announced on Saturday, mandates all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 to serve a minimum of two years under military command. The junta has not revealed further details but stated that the defense ministry will issue the necessary rules and instructions governing this service.
Recent Defeats Undermine Military Coup
The Myanmar military has suffered a series of humiliating defeats in the past months. Towards the end of the last year, three ethnic insurgent armies in Shan State, backed by other armed opposition groups, seized border crossings and key trade routes with China. These defeats have raised doubts and criticism among the military’s supporters.
Enforcement of Existing Conscription Law
Although a law enabling conscription was introduced in Myanmar in 2010, it remained unenforced until now. This legislation allows for service terms to be extended up to five years during a state of emergency. Failure to comply with the summons for military service can result in imprisonment for an equivalent period. With the junta declaring a state of emergency in 2021, conscription is now actively enforced.
Myanmar’s Troubled History
Myanmar endured nearly five decades of oppressive military rule before a transition towards democracy began in 2011. However, on 1 February 2021, the military seized control of the country, plunging it into heightened disorder and conflict. Since then, over a million people have been displaced, and thousands have lost their lives. The performance of the army in recent battles with ethnic armed groups, including defeats and retreats, has further raised concerns and skepticism among its supporters.
