DeKalb GA News

Over the past 75 years, millions of lives have been impacted by the ongoing war in Burma (Myanmar). The country's diverse ethnic and religious groups continue their struggle against successive military juntas. Despite facing challenges, pro-democracy forces in Burma receive little more than verbal support from the United Nations and the international community, lacking substantial aid or intervention.

Vittorio, a Catholic Karenni Free Burma Ranger and a member of the pro-democracy resistance, was killed while defending his community. Reflecting on his life, it's noted that if he had lived elsewhere, he might have experienced a typical adolescence instead of growing up amid conflict. His story highlights the reality for many who have known only war throughout their lives.

The toll on young people is evident as some join resistance efforts at an early age. One incident involved a 16-year-old soldier who lost his foot to a landmine. This reflects how war affects not just lives but entire futures.

In Thailand's Chiang Mai, a 19-year-old former soldier seeks education despite significant obstacles. Displaced from his homeland with limited educational opportunities due to conflict and COVID-19 lockdowns, he faces uncertainty about his future prospects.

Burma's prolonged conflict has displaced millions within its borders and driven many others to seek refuge in neighboring countries like Thailand and Bangladesh. Nearly 18% of Burma’s population no longer resides where they once did due to displacement.

In Karenni State, where most residents are Catholic, displacement affects about 80% of the population. Residents frequently experience airstrikes and destruction firsthand.

Despite international sanctions violations by Russia and China supplying weapons to Burma's junta, resistance forces control approximately 80% of territory but struggle against fortified government strongholds.

Amidst these conditions, David Eubank of Free Burma Rangers and Ashley South issued an open letter urging international action: “The United States should support freedom and democracy in Burma—because this is the right thing to do for the people of Burma, the region, and the world."