Insight Myanmar

Episode #245: Barry Lapping shares his spiritual odyssey from the turbulence of the Vietnam War era and counterculture movement, to the serene hills of Bodhgaya, India, to becoming a vipassana meditation teacher in western Massachusetts.His story begins with a chance encounter with a captivating magazine photo of a meditator in the mountains of New Mexico, which ignited his quest to find true happiness. His subsequent journey led him to try kibbutz life in Israel, before traveling overland through Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan to India, where he found his spiritual home at the Burmese Vihara in Bodhgaya. There, under the guidance of his first teacher, Munindra, and later S.N. Goenka, Barry delved deep into the practice of vipassana meditation.Barry highlights the essence of Goenka's teachings, which focus on the purification of the mind through a non-judgmental observation of physical sensation that leads to an experiential understanding of impermanence, suffering, and non-self. Despite initial struggles, Barry found profound transformation through this practice, which provided him with the tools to navigate the complexities of life with equanimity and wisdom. He has devoted his life to helping spread these teachings, and is now the Center teacher at Dhamma Dhara, in western Massachusetts.Barry’s story is a testament to the enduring power of meditation to bring about profound personal change and contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world.

Episode #244: Matthew Arnold details the aftermath of Operation 1027, and how this has dramatically shifted the landscape of conflict in Myanmar. The junta's inability to maintain control, compounded by losing key territories, showcases a dramatic shift in power dynamics. Arnold emphasizes that the ceasefire brokered by China, although seemingly significant, is more a tactical pause than a strategic peace, driven by the junta's need to save face amid substantial defeats.The broader conflict is marked by a series of insurgencies and the junta's heavy reliance on violence against civilians, illustrating its desperation. Arnold points out that the junta's attempts to stabilize their rule through ceasefires often fail, revealing a pattern of transactional and insincere agreements meant to temporarily halt fighting rather than foster long-term political solutions.Arnold’s insights highlight the junta's eroding military capacity, strained logistics, and diminishing strategic depth. This scenario underscores a critical juncture where local resistance, ethnic alliances, and international diplomatic pressures converge, potentially leading to the junta's collapse and a reconfiguration of Myanmar's political landscape.Matthew Arnold concludes with a powerful message to those continuing on in the resistance movement: “The Myanmar people should take heart. This has been your revolution, you have been the ones who have pushed it, you've succeeded more than any other country has when confronted with a deeply entrenched, genocidal military, and one that is willing to use mass violence against the population. All of this has been through the determination and dedication of the Myanmar people.”

Episode #243: Kenneth Wong, a Burmese language teacher and translator, visited Thailand to connect with compatriots who have sought refuge there due to the conflict in Myanmar. While he enjoyed his stay in Mae Sot, a town with a significant Burmese presence, he soon realized that it was quite different for Burmese refugees: after a fraught journey across the Moei River to avoid capture, the community is plagued by fear, extortion by local authorities and a lack of prospects that keep many from even leaving their house, let along learning Thai. Despite these challenges, a strong Burmese community persists in Mae Sot, with hopes of returning home after political change. Kenneth reflects on the plight of previous generations of activists who remained in exile without assimilating, limiting their ability to aid current movements. He also notes instances of Thai kindness toward Burmese workers against the backdrop of a complicated, historical relationship.At the end of the day, Kenneth is anything if not optimistic. “I'm hopeful that some of the activists and refugees I met, even though they are in a desperate situation with an uncertain future, they also turning around and helping people who are less fortunate, and helping people who arrive fresh off the boat as it were,” he says in closing. “I have nothing but admiration for them, for the fact that even though they are struggling, they seek reward in selfless acts. I think these are the people that in the post-coup Federal Union, the kind of democratic kind Burma that we envision, these are the kinds of young people who will lead to nation-rebuilding efforts. These are the kind of people who I hope could become a bridge to foster goodwill between Thailand and Burma, because if they go back, maybe they retain some fond memories of the good experiences that they've had in Thailand.”

Episode #242: The situation at the Myanmar-India border exemplifies the intersection of regional geopolitics, ethnic dynamics, and national security concerns. Angshuman Choudhury, a policy analyst, emphasizes that the northeast region of India, with its proximity and historical ties to Myanmar, plays a pivotal role in India's strategic calculus. The border, stretching 1,640 kilometers, is not just a line on a map, but a space of significant ethnic and cultural interaction that impacts local and national policies.India's relationship with Myanmar is a pragmatic one, influenced by security concerns over insurgent groups finding refuge in Myanmar and the broader geopolitical landscape marked by China's growing influence. Choudhury notes that the Indian government’s Act East policy and investments in border infrastructure underscore an ambition to integrate its northeast region more closely with Southeast Asia, positioning it as a gateway to further economic and strategic opportunities.However, the influx of refugees from Myanmar following the coup in 2021 has complicated this goal, highlighting internal policy contradictions. Choudhury notes that while Mizoram's government has shown humanitarian support for refugees because of its ethnic ties and local sentiment, the federal government has taken a more cautious approach, revealing a tension between regional and national security priorities.In essence, Choudhury points out how the dynamics at the Myanmar-India border illustrate how local ethnic relations, national security policies, and international strategic interests converge, creating a complex tapestry that has both immediate and long-term implications for the region.“As far as Myanmar is concerned, there is almost an across the board consensus [in New Delhi] that ‘we've got to play safe.’ There is an understanding that we need political stability in Myanmar in order to ensure economic development and economic relationship with India, and also to prevent the spillover of the conflict into northeast India,” he says. “In fact, in that sense, there is a bipartisan consensus between India's ruling party and opposition parties over this issue.”

Episode #241: “When we look back now, it's easier to look at that [transition] period darkly and dismiss it and say it was kind of a mirage,” says Timothy McLaughlin. “I do think there was there was were some real things happening and definitely benefits. Was it equal across the board? Of course not. And was it halting? Yes, for sure.”McLaughlin, a seasoned journalist, begins by highlighting the initial optimism and significant economic changes that took place during this transition period, such as the telecom revolution and banking reforms, which provided tangible benefits despite the overarching political uncertainties and sporadic violence. He then critiques US policy towards Myanmar at that time, suggesting that the Obama administration’s early attempts were genuine but ultimately superficial. The initial post-coup U.S. response, he also argues, was performative and lacked substantial impact, revealing a broader issue with the efficacy of sanctions. He points out the problematic relationship between U.S. actions and the complex dynamics of Myanmar's geopolitical environment, particularly the role of China and regional actors like ASEAN and Thailand.The discussion also touches on the significant humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, emphasizing the need for more innovative and localized approaches to aid distribution. McLaughlin underscores the frustration and sense of abandonment felt by the Myanmar people, contrasting the international community's initial enthusiasm with its subsequent apathy post-coup.“Myanmar is not going back to what it was,” he says. “What it is in the future, we obviously don't know. But I don't think it's going back to what it was in 2012, or the 2003 era. Something fundamentally is changing here, and it's going to take a while for that all to be seen and sorted. Unfortunately, it's probably going to mean more lost lives and destruction. But I do think that something different is going to emerge from all this.”

Episode #240: Isabel Todd, speaking on behalf of the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar (SAC-M), provides a profound insight into the current situation in Myanmar, focusing on the country's struggle for justice and human rights amidst ongoing military atrocities.A critical aspect of Todd's discussion is the international community's response to the crisis in Myanmar, or rather, the lack thereof. Despite the clear evidence of genocidal atrocities committed by the military against the Rohingya, and the ongoing human rights violations since the coup, ensuring accountability and justice still seem far off. The International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) have roles to play, but their capacities are limited by jurisdictional challenges and political complexities.Todd emphasizes the importance of continued pressure on the international community to act decisively against the Myanmar military. She highlights the efforts of the SAC-M in advocating for the prosecution of military leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This advocacy extends to urging the ICC to expand its limited investigation and for the international community to uphold its responsibility to protect vulnerable populations in Myanmar.“It's so important to look at this beyond purely military terms, because this isn't a civil war. This is an uprising!” she says. “It's a revolution to rebuild what Myanmar is, and that's already happening! The sort of foundations of the federal democracy that will be established in the future, are already being built at that community and township level. This is an uprising that people are willing to happen, and there are acts of resistance that are taking place every day that aren't necessarily seen, but what's very clear as people are actively opposed to the junta.”

Phil Robertson discusses the dire situation of Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand, highlighting exploitation, abuse, and lack of legal protection. He exposes the systemic corruption, police brutality, and oppression faced by these vulnerable workers. Robertson calls for significant legal reforms and international pressure to break the cycle of exploitation and restore dignity to migrant workers.

Episode #238: Helene Maria Kyed, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies. sheds light on the phenomenon of military defections since the 2021 coup. Historically, defections were rare and there wasn't even a Burmese term for it. Prior to the coup, soldiers might desert, but not defect, driven by dissatisfaction rather than a desire to join the ethnic resistance or other oppositional forces.The coup has changed this landscape dramatically. Defections have surged, driven by a combination of factors including ideological disillusionment with the military's actions, economic hardships, and the promise of a different future. These defectors are not just leaving their posts; they are actively joining the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) and various resistance organizations, seeking to dismantle the military's grip on power.Kyed highlights the critical role of the CDM and ethnic armed organizations in facilitating defections, offering support and safe havens to those who choose to leave. This support ranges from financial aid to logistical assistance, helping defectors escape the military's reach and start anew. However, the journey is fraught with danger, as defectors risk retribution not only against themselves but also against their families.The defection movement is not just a numbers game—it represents a profound shift in the military's cohesion and morale. By providing a pathway for soldiers to leave, the resistance is chipping away at the military's strength from within, offering a glimmer of hope for a more just and peaceful future for Myanmar.“Historically and comparatively it is quite unprecedented, and quite impressive how, not only in terms of the material support, but also the way that these different activities online have been able to move this defection forward in Myanmar,” she says. “We need to keep in mind the historical unprecedentedness not only in the Myanmar context, but worldwide, of the resilience, and impressive strategies and practices of the revolutionary movement in Myanmar.”

Episode #237: Dragos Badita, a seeker of wisdom and a skilled artist from Romania, embarked on a transformative journey to Myanmar in 2019. His desire to delve deeper into Buddhism and meditation led him to the Pa Auk Monastery, where he spent weeks immersing himself in practice. But beyond meditation, Dragos, with his artist's eye, meticulously made sketches throughout his trip, including his monastery surroundings. These drawings, filled with details that he might otherwise overlook, mirrored the patience and commitment required in both meditation and art. Through his art, Dragos reveals the profound meaning embedded in everyday scenes, such as a pair of sandals at a meditation hall's entrance symbolizing community and respect. Reflecting on his own homeland’s transition away from many years of dictatorship, Dragos draws parallels with Myanmar in expressing hope for a democratic future there, seeing the same spirit of change there. So his journey not only enriched his understanding of Buddhist teachings, but deepened his appreciation for freedom and its transformative power.Dragos points out that the Buddhist understanding he gained in Myanmar derived from lessons learned off the cushion as well. “You see monks in the morning, and it reminds you that this exists, that it's happening it has some weight to it. A lot of time has passed from when the Buddha gave the teachings, but this is still happening! The monks with the alms bowls in the morning, it is still happening after all this time.”

Episode #236: Debbie's life has been a remarkable journey, spanning continents and causes, and fueled by an unwavering commitment to activism and human rights. Born in Malaysia, Debbie’s early experiences as a crime reporter ignited her lifelong dedication to advocacy. Her journalism skills—honed in a landscape where women reporters were rare—provided her a unique lens to view and challenge societal injustices.Transitioning from journalism to activism, she found herself deeply involved in the democratic struggles in Myanmar, driven by a fascination with its people and a determination to help topple the oppressive military regime. Her activism reflects a broad fight against inequality and oppression across Southeast Asia. Her approach is deeply intersectional, recognizing the entwined struggles of various, marginalized communities. Through her leadership in alternative ASEAN networks and initiatives, she has challenged authoritarianism and helped nurture a generation of new activists, particularly empowering women to lead in their communities. This work has also extended to challenging economic injustices, advocating for inclusive policies that ensure all voices are heard and respected.“It wasn't like I woke up one morning and said, ‘I want to be a champion for human rights, and this ideal is noble ideal,’” she says. “Basically, I became a human rights activist because I was trying to solve a problem. We do need to have a more pragmatic and understanding that, yes, human rights principles are absolutely important. But we have to remember that at the center of this are human beings, we have to be human-centered in our human rights approach.”