Insight Myanmar

Episode #356: Jonathan Crowley shares his experiences as an Assistant Teacher within the Vipassana Meditation Organization of SN Goenka. He participated in a culture that heavily prioritized rules and regulations over open and meaningful discussion about the practice itself. This lack of space for open dialogue, especially about the Dhamma, led Jonathan to feel that the organization was stifling inquiry and critical discourse. He was particularly concerned about the Organization's reluctance to engage with the Pali Canon apart from Goenka's idiosyncratic interpretations, or to address social justice issues, including race and privilege. More broadly, Jonathan felt that this avoidance of critical topics has led to an environment where questioning or expressing any difficulty with the practice is not just discouraged, but seen as a threat to the purity and integrity of the tradition. This culture of non-questioning, according to Jonathan, fosters a sense of cognitive dissonance in many practitioners, as they are expected to accept the teachings without critical engagement. Jonathan's growing discomfort with this environment led him to question his own involvement and sense of belonging. He found it increasingly difficult to reconcile his deep commitment to the practice with an environment that discourages a more holistic and critical engagement with the Dhamma. Despite the profound transformative experiences he had through the practice, the organization's approach to maintaining its perceived purity ultimately felt too restrictive. He concluded that while the organization's emphasis on tradition and non-questioning was intended to preserve the teachings, it actually hinders open exploration and critical thinking, which are crucial for a deeper understanding and application of the Dhamma in all aspects of life. “When you're involved as much as I was, you can't really leave the Organization with dignity,” he says sadly.

Episode #355: “You need to pay attention to what the kids care about,” says Naomi Gingold. “It will inform so much about the place that you're trying to understand, be it politics, culture, all of it! And you do a disservice to the nature of what you're trying to understand when you don't.” In the late 1990s, amid Myanmar's strict military rule, Burmese hip hop began to emerge as a new form of cultural expression. Young people blended beats, slang, and self-assertion to create a movement that challenged both cultural norms and the political narrative of a tightly controlled society. Gingold, a journalist and academic researcher, who has spent years studying Myanmar's hip hop scene, explains that even though the music wasn't necessarily explicitly political, many facets of hip hop were expressions of agency in a harshly suppressed environment and inherently defiant. Her research (and book-in-progress) is on the birth, unexpected rise, and explosive impact of hip hop in Myanmar; it is a story she tells alongside the inseparable history and evolution of modern technology, the public sphere, as well as youth political sentiment and agency in the country. The group Acid—who became the first real hip hop stars in Myanmar—and other pioneering bands spoke to the frustrations of Burmese youth, addressing daily struggles and aspirations. Hip hop artists cleverly used coded language and slang to evade the scrutiny of an oppressive regime, embodying ideals of freedom and resistance in the process. The resurgence of military power in 2021 brought a return to repression after a period of relative openness and freedom. Among the most devastating events was the state execution of Phyo Zeya Thaw, a co-founder of Acid and a leader of the resistance. His arrest and execution in 2022 were a chilling reminder of the regime's determination to crush dissent. Those events were also deeply personal for today's guest and her research community, especially. She briefly reflects on the rise of new media post coup, "This was me reflecting primarily on changes in media/public sphere and youth political sentiment. All part of my research. Though hip hop has affected the podcasts and social media platforms have become new vehicles for artists and activists to share their stories, discuss mental health, reflect on the ongoing revolution, and chat about the future they aspire to create. These new formats have allowed Burmese voices to reach an even wider audience, bypassing state-controlled media.”

Episode #354: Saravanan, an advocate for Myanmar's alienated Tamil community, illuminates their rich, yet overlooked, history. He describes an ancient connection, starting around 300 BC, through trade between Tamil merchants and the Mon people. Those early Tamil migrants eventually assimilated completely, suggesting hidden Tamil ancestry in many Burmese today. The colonial era marked a huge turning point. From just 19 Indians living in Yangon in 1852, the rice boom led to a surge of cheap Indian labor, which totaled 1 million by 1931. This forced migration through indentured labor, akin to slavery, fueled Myanmar's economy but also bred resentment. Saravanan details how discriminatory terms like kalar became linked to darker skin, creating persistent color-based classism. Anti-Indian sentiment escalated, culminating in the violent Rangoon riots in the 1930s. Then post-1962, Ne Win's regime deported many Tamils and nationalized their assets, while also banning their language and culture outright. For those who remained, this caused deep self-suppression and alienation. While modern media offers cultural revitalization, political participation remains severely limited due to lack of citizenship and fear of retaliation. Saravanan emphasizes that for Tamils, neither dictatorship nor democracy has brought genuine inclusion. He advocates for an “alienated minority committee” to actively integrate these communities, recognizing their history and providing legal and social equality. “Society has to take a step back, look at us and say, ‘Okay, these people belong to us. They have to walk with us, because they are part of us,'” he says in closing.

Episode #353: Professor Lahra Smith, a political science professor specializing in East Africa at Georgetown University, argues that Myanmar's current struggles must be seen within a global framework of colonial legacies, using Sudan as a comparative case. While acknowledging contextual differences, Smith shows how both countries were shaped by British colonial rule that hardened ethnic divisions, created infrastructure disparities, and entrenched political inequalities. Sudan lies within Africa's so-called "coup belt," illustrating a broader dissatisfaction with post-colonial governance and foreign interference. Like Myanmar, Sudan has suffered from military coups that initially promised reform but quickly descended into new forms of repression. Smith discusses how colonial policies divided Sudanese society along racial and religious lines, just as British colonialism in Myanmar entrenched ethnic and religious hierarchies that still drive conflict today. Colonialism's infrastructural and missionary legacies further marginalized Sudan's peripheries, fostering grievances that exploded into civil wars and the eventual, troubled independence of South Sudan. Similarly, Myanmar's marginalized ethnic regions remain flashpoints for conflict. Smith stresses the need to move beyond thinking in terms of static land borders and recognize the deeper regional and cultural continuities that colonial boundaries disrupted. Ultimately, Smith emphasizes that identities and nations are constantly evolving, and that just drawing new lines on maps to replace the old, artificial, colonial ones will not solve the problems caused by the colonial experience. She stresses that genuine understanding requires recognizing this fluidity.

The Global Citizen Podcast recently featured a look at the work behind Insight Myanmar and Better Burma, which we bring you here as a bonus episode.

Episode #352: Nicholas Coppel's tenure as Australia's ambassador to Myanmar (2015–2018) provides a unique lens on the country's transition toward democracy, as well as the enduring challenges posed by military dominance. Serving during the historic 2015 elections, Coppel witnessed the National League for Democracy (NLD) rise to power under Aung San Suu Kyi. Yet despite the optimism surrounding the election, the military's entrenched authority under the 2008 Constitution continued to hinder reform. Retaining control of key ministries and 25% of parliamentary seats, the military ensured an enduring imbalance of power, despite the civilian government's best efforts. Coppel's engagement was largely with the civilian government, as the military remained resistant to diplomacy. Australian programs like English language training for military officers aimed to bridge gaps, but he acknowledges their limited impact. Coppel's reflections highlight how this lack of meaningful dialogue with the military constrained international efforts to anticipate or mitigate future conflicts, including during and after the 2021 coup. Coppel outlines the difficult balance the international community faces in responding to Myanmar's post-coup environment. He notes that symbolic gestures like refusing to appoint ambassadors are clear signals of disapproval but do not exert meaningful pressure on the military regime. He warns that some well-intentioned actions, such as corporate withdrawals, have produced perverse outcomes—like increasing the military's revenue share in sectors such as oil and gas—while simultaneously harming ordinary civilians, such as garment workers losing jobs. Rather than blanket disengagement, he encourages a more thoughtful approach: supporting efforts that sustain the people of Myanmar without empowering the military, including initiatives like exile media, telehealth, and distance education. Technology, according to Coppel, plays a dual role in Myanmar's crisis. While it enables resistance through fundraising and information sharing, it also facilitates military surveillance and propaganda. Despite these challenges, he remains cautiously optimistic, believing that change will come from the resilience of Myanmar's people. “I would encourage your listeners to remain engaged with Myanmar. I would hate to think that the country and our attention on it, and our interest in it is diminished because of the actions of a military general,” Coppel urges, emphasizing the importance of global support for the people of Myanmar.

Episode #351: Aurora Chang's diverse background and upbringing deeply influence her perspective and activism. Born in Taiwan, she spent formative years in South Africa, the United States, Singapore, and the United Kingdom, an international upbringing that provided her with a multifaceted worldview. This exposure also played a role in informing how she views her Taiwanese identity, particularly as she grappled with questions about her country's sovereignty in light of its complex relationship with China. Her academic focus on history, politics, and economics, coupled with her involvement in movements like the anti-extradition protests in Hong Kong and advocacy for Uyghur and Tibetan rights, shaped her eventual commitment to global justice and solidarity. Aurora's reflections on Myanmar highlight the darkest aspects of authoritarianism alongside the unyielding resilience of grassroots resistance, emphasizing the scale of oppression in Myanmar following the 2021 military coup. For Aurora, Myanmar's resistance movement stands as a symbol of both tragedy and inspiration. She notes the organizational strength exhibited by those opposing the military junta, despite operating under extreme duress. The images and accounts of suffering serve as visceral reminders of the stakes involved in such conflicts. At the same time, Aurora reflects on how Myanmar's movement provides critical insights for activists worldwide, particularly regarding tactical readiness and building resilient communities. "There's a lot that we can learn from Myanmar's resistance," she says simply. This global view ties closely to Aurora's concerns regarding Taiwan's political landscape. She warns against complacency, drawing parallels between the fragile sovereignty of Taiwan and the relentless encroachment seen elsewhere across Southeast Asia on the part of China. Aurora highlights the value of civil defense and preparedness as lessons she believes Taiwan could take from Burma's resistance to safeguard its democratic values and sovereignty.“It's literally, you change one mind at a time, and you thank God for it!” she exclaims, on the long process of activism.. “It's just like that, and that has to be enough for the time being. It's a really slow process, but listening is so important, and getting those stories out, amplifying the voices of people who are in these intersections, is really important.”

Episode #350: Dr. Kevin Casas-Zamora, Secretary-General of International IDEA since 2019, speaks on the enduring struggle for democracy in Myanmar, a fight he frames as universally relevant. “At a fundamental level, any country's struggle for democracy is every country's struggle for democracy,” he says. He contrasts the brutal 2021 military coup with the more gradual democratic erosion seen globally, highlighting Myanmar's stark regression. International IDEA, established in 1995, works to strengthen democratic governance worldwide. Casas-Zamora, a lawyer and political scientist with extensive inter-governmental experience, brings expertise to this mission as a lawyer by training, with his research informed by his analysis of Myanmar's complex political environment. The organization's engagement in Myanmar shifted from supporting nascent democratic reforms to aiding the pro-democracy movement post-coup. This included providing technical assistance, facilitating dialogues, and advocating for sustained international attention. Casas-Zamora criticizes the international community's response, citing increased impunity for authoritarian regimes and insufficient support for democratic actors. He urges recognition of legitimate democratic bodies, condemnation of undemocratic elections, and sustained focus on the crisis, warning against legitimizing the junta's “phony election” bids. He highlights the global trend of democratic decline, documented in IDEA's reports, and expresses concern over the lack of decisive international action. “Keep an eye on this. Don't forget about the tragedy of Myanmar,” he urges. The struggle for democracy is rarely a linear progression and often involves navigating periods of significant adversity. Considering this, and despite the formidable challenges and the often-disheartening realities on the ground, Casas-Zamora is encouraged by the resilience of the Myanmar people, particularly its youth. “The youth are simply not willing to roll over and accept the military takeover.” Their commitment to democratic values, even in the face of repression, is a source of inspiration for him and, he believes, sets an example for an increasingly undemocratic world.

Episode #349: Oliver Tanner's journey begins in London, where as a teenager, he became restless and dissatisfied with the status quo. At 19, he traveled through Asia, which first exposed him to the idea of meditation. He first practiced yoga, but a chance encounter led to a Vipassana meditation course in the tradition of S. N. Goenka, which profoundly shifted his perspective. His commitment deepened through sitting and serving at Vipassana centers, notably in the UK, where he immersed himself in long courses and involvement in the meditation community. A turning point came when he decided to explore the Buddha's teachings directly. He traveled to Myanmar, and became inspired by the country's living Buddhist culture, the people's generosity, and their integration of Dharma into daily life. So he enrolled at the International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University in Yangon, and dedicated himself to studying Pali, Abhidhamma, and the suttas to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Buddha's words, and integrate them into his life. His time in Myanmar highlighted the importance of independent practice and the continuous cultivation of wholesome qualities beyond formal sitting meditation. This holistic approach, supported by his studies, expanded his understanding of the Dharma, emphasizing integration into every moment of life. Oliver has since moved to Sri Lanka with his family, pursuing advanced studies in Buddhist philosophy, culminating in a PhD that delved deeply the intricate teachings of the Pattana. His journey, shaped by tradition, practice, and inquiry, reflects a profound evolution from youthful curiosity to a deeply integrated spiritual life.

Episode #348: The Spring Revolution in Myanmar represents a continuation of long-standing struggles for a legitimate political order, according to Charlie Thame, Assistant Professor of International Relations at Thammasat University. Thame describes this uprising as a "redemptive revolution," striving to fulfill the promises of past movements like the 1988 Uprising and the Saffron Revolution. The current revolution aims for popular sovereignty and inclusion, seeking rights for marginalized ethnic groups within a federal democratic state. Thame emphasizes that the grassroots nature of this uprising distinguishes it from past "passive" revolutions that failed to reflect the people's will. The current movement seeks not merely power-sharing but the full dismantling of military dominance. He critiques the international community for legitimizing Myanmar's military despite popular opposition, and he advocates for a redefinition of ‘sovereignty,' one that is rooted in the people's will, much like struggles seen during the era of decolonization. Addressing the issue of revolutionary violence, Thame argues that while non-violence is preferable, it has proven ineffective as a singular strategy against Myanmar's military, which uses brutal force indiscriminately. Thame is critical of the hypocrisy of outside actors who decry revolutionary violence while supporting oppressive regimes, and he calls out the Western community's “both sides” rhetoric that ignores power asymmetries. "The revolution doesn't end with the military being defeated," Thame says, addressing the broader aspirations that he hopes can be achieved. "The revolution would only end with the sort of realization of the aspirations that drove it originally: those aspirations, not just for a new constitution, but for fundamentally more equal society and overcoming those social, ethnic, religious, generational class cleavages. And I just hope, with all my power, that that is something that can be followed through on because once the military starts collapsing, as I believe it will."

Episode #347: In the first part of this three-part series, three distinct yet intersecting voices reveal the human, political, and structural toll of the Myanmar crisis—and the inadequacy of ASEAN's current response. Charles Santiago, a veteran Malaysian politician and currently the chair of the Asean Parliamentarians for Human Rights, delivers a scathing critique of ASEAN's “process-driven” stagnation in contrast to Indonesia's proactive diplomacy. He argues that poverty and inequality—rooted in global economic systems—have eroded democratic values and enabled authoritarianism across the region. But Santiago sees a window of opportunity in Myanmar's growing political unity, bottom-up federalist movements, and inclusive leadership, especially among women. He calls for ASEAN to formally recognize the National Unity Government (NUG), insist on a ceasefire and the release of political prisoners, and be prepared to downgrade Myanmar's standing if these conditions aren't met. His warnings are stark: the collapse of state functions has regional implications, from scam centers and arms proliferation to epidemic threats, and ASEAN's failure to respond decisively risks its own irrelevance. Tisana Choonhavan, a Thai MP and APHR member, brings the crisis to the border. Working with refugee education programs and advocating for exploited migrants in Mae Sot, she outlines the systemic abuse faced by political exiles who cannot legally register or work in Thailand. Choonhavan pushes for police reform, work permits through the pink card system, and refugee recognition—moves that would enhance both humanitarian outcomes and Thai national interests amid its aging population. She notes the tragic contradiction of Thailand denying a war exists while harboring tens of thousands fleeing that exact reality. Aung Paw Moe, a young exile activist and former political prisoner, adds a quiet but powerful moral voice. Reflecting on his imprisonment and lost academic aspirations, he asserts that activism was never a choice—it was a duty. He calls on his peers to endure this historical moment with clarity and resolve, seeing it not as an aberration, but as a necessary transformation.

Episode #346: Mark Farmaner, Director of Burma Campaign UK, reflects on Myanmar's multiple crises and shares his multi-decade relationship with the country. Initially engaged through public demonstrations, Farmaner's work evolved into policy-oriented advocacy aimed at cutting off the military's power through sanctions, revenue disruption, and denial of legitimacy. He criticizes international strategies rooted in the false hope of military reform, arguing that any compromise with the military only delays future unrest. Two early focal points of advocacy—Aung San Suu Kyi and British business ties to the junta—have lost their power. Suu Kyi's reputation declined following the Rohingya crisis, and Farmaner argues that her Bamar-Buddhist-majority outlook has alienated ethnic minorities. And international advocacy has fragmented as humanitarian emergencies divert civil society resources. Despite setbacks, Farmaner detects unprecedented hope among resistance actors envisioning a future without the military. He argues Myanmar's future lies in decentralized governance, where ethnic forces maintain regional control. He questions whether the NUG can form a central authority, especially given their lack of territorial control and strained relationships with some ethnic groups. Farmaner calls for cutting arms and revenue to the military, demanding justice, and expanding humanitarian aid. He warns that reduced aid empowers the junta, which exploits crises like the recent earthquake to regain international legitimacy. Still, in spite of the overall lack of foreign assistance, local, grassroots, Burmese responses have been inspiring, and he urges allies to pressure elected officials directly in support.Farmaner concludes optimistically: “I think it's inevitable that the people of Burma will win their freedom.”

The host of Insight Myanmar was invited to speak on the Light Forest Podcast.Here is a description of this platform:"The Light Forest podcast is a journey of exploration to bring more Light into how we live and regenerate our planet away from 'Dark Forest' systems of extraction and fear. Join me for conversations with change makers from around the world, as we explore philosophies, technology, spirituality, and history that can help us get to the root of our global problems. Together we learn how to play our part in the regeneration of our planet, starting with our own minds, to create a Light Forest world."The following description is added for this interview:"We get into some of the deep contradictions that run through Buddhism in Burma & policy making: How a country that sought to center around Vipassana and meditation became one of the most violent places? We learn the ways Buddhist practices such as Vipassanā and mettā, and other principles are helping leaders in resistance groups, forming a “non-violent” movement as a path to peace and reconciliation."

Episode #345: Does any and all engagement with the junta equate to some form of complicity? Moe Thuzar of ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute challenges this notion by offering a nuanced perspective on ASEAN's role in the Myanmar crisis following the 2021 coup. She argues that ASEAN's diplomacy aims to exert influence and advocate for the Myanmar people's aspirations. ​​Moe Thuzar begins by explaining ​​that there are “multiple Myanmars” beyond Naypyidaw​: “in the peri-urban and central areas, the delta, the periphery. And now the resistances.” Providing further nuance, she notes how for many, “ethnic armed organizations represent the aspirations of different communities and people in Myanmar broadly for change." Taking all this into consideration, she emphasizes the need for an ​“inside-out” approach that prioritizes the needs of ​these ​diverse communities, while challenging the atrocities committed by the ​SAC​; a principle, she argues, that is increasingly reflected in ASEAN's Myanmar strategy.​ ​ Addressing ASEAN's “non-interference” principle, Moe Thuzar contends that “with Myanmar as an ASEAN Member since 1997, I would even go so far as to say that Myanmar has been the most interfered with under the ASEAN framework.” She suggests reframing this term as “non-indifference,” which better reflects ASEAN's concern for regional stability. She then goes into detail on ASEAN's evolving engagement through the different chairs since the coup (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, and looking to Malaysia in 2025), ​and ​​also ​describ​es​​ the varying approaches and the challenges in implementing the Five-Point ​​Consensus. While initial engagement with the junta faced criticism for potential legitimization, Jakarta's chairmanship shifted towards broader stakeholder engagement. Yet Moe Thuzar understands the complexity of geopolitical concerns, and speaks of the need for a long-term, multi-year ASEAN strategy for continuity and effective coordination to ensure the end of violence. The question lingers: can this regional endeavor untangle the Myanmar crisis? Drawing on ASEAN's past diplomatic strategies, Moe Thuzar remains cautiously optimistic; yet only time will tell.

Episode #344: Dominic Faulder's decades of reporting on Myanmar began serendipitously in 1981, when a Thai coup disrupted his travel plans and led to an impromptu journey to Burma for Thingyan. He was immediately struck by the atmosphere—enticing yet oppressive—and quickly became fascinated by the country's complexity, secrecy, and resilience. In the 1980s, he uncovered the unreported Mandalay fire, which destroyed a sixth of the city, and found that a similar catastrophe in the town of Taungdwingyi had also gone unnoticed. These early stories revealed the regime's ability to conceal massive tragedies from the outside world.Faulder reported extensively on the events leading up to the 1988 uprising. He witnessed the bravery of students, the absence of police in early demonstrations, and the eerie silence before the storm. His proximity to key figures—Aung San Suu Kyi, U Nu, Min Ko Naing—gave him unique access as history unfolded in real time. Faulder eventually conducted a rare interview with General Saw Maung, a junta leader, an extraordinary feat given the regime's paranoia. Despite Suu Kyi's frustration that generals would speak to media but not political leaders, Faulder defended the role of journalists in documenting the moment. His reporting emphasized not just the courage of the protesters but the regime's brutality, the fractures within the opposition, and the impossible balance journalists had to strike between access and truth-telling.Like many other past guests who have described their multi-decade relationship with the country, Dominic reflects on the pull that Burma exerts on those who come to be involved with its story. “Foreigners get involved with Southeast Asia and stay much longer than they ever anticipated. But Burma, it is the one story that you always go back to, [asking] what-ifs and why do you think that is?”

Episode #343: “I literally thought the world was crumbling!” Chloe, a young woman born and raised in Myanmar's Inle Lake region, speaks viscerally about the country's recent, devastating earthquake. The lake, known for its picturesque floating gardens and villages built on stilts, is one of Myanmar's most iconic cultural landmarks. But the area is now in ruins. And while the structural damage was severe enough, the people were traumatized. With minimal outside relief, and an ineffective and corrupt government unwilling and unable to help, Chloe felt she had to do something. So she and some friends launched a grassroots fundraising campaign. They started by giving out small cash donations but quickly realized the biggest need was reliable shelter. In previous disasters, monasteries had served as temporary sanctuaries, but these now lay in ruins, too. Emergency shelters were quickly put up, but they are flimsy and sometimes shared by more than one family. So she and her friends pivoted to the goal of helping families rebuild their homes. Local initiatives like Chloe's are driving the recovery, and in her view, it is this decentralized, community-led model that while necessary, is also inspiring. She talks about how a village will help one family with the biggest housing needs in rebuilding, then move onto the next, etc., until the whole village is taken care of. This kind of collective action has lifted spirits. Yet the material needs and psychological effects of the earthquake remain acute, and in spite of the Burmese people's famous self-reliance, they were already exhausted after the COVID pandemic, years of political repression and civil strife, last year's catastrophic floods. So Chloe ends with a call to action for the global community, urging listeners not only to donate but to amplify the voices of those on the ground. “The more people know what's happening in Inle, the more likely it is that more support and assistance will come, I believe, from inside the country and beyond.”

Episode #342: Dhammaloka, born Laurence Carroll in Dublin around 1856, was a unique figure in the history of Buddhism and anti-colonial resistance. Much of what we know today about Dhammaloka comes from Laurence Cox, Alicia Turner, and Brian Bocking in “The Irish Buddhist.” Carroll left Ireland as a teenager, becoming a sailor and tramp, living on the margins of society. These experiences shaped his adaptability and led to his connection with Buddhism when he arrived in Burma. Unlike other Europeans, Laurence was not part of the elite—he was a working-class man who resonated deeply with Buddhist principles. Rangoon's diverse environment enabled Laurence to align with marginalized communities resisting colonial rule. Eventually, he ordained as a monk Tavoy Monastery in Rangoon under the name U Dhammaloka. The monastery was aligned with the Thudhamma sect, known for its strict adherence to the Vinaya and social engagement. This gave Dhammaloka an opportunity for both a spiritual rebirth from his alcohol addiction, as well as a connection to the emerging, pan-Asian Buddhist movement. His commitment to the monastic life became a powerful personal and political act. Dhammaloka's activism brought him into direct conflict with British authorities. He was placed under surveillance, charged with sedition, and his trial in Rangoon showed his symbolic role in anti-colonial resistance. Despite attempts to suppress him, his legacy endured. Dhammaloka also fiercely opposed Western missionaries, viewing their work as part of colonial domination. He famously said, “The British came with the Bible, the Gatling gun, and the whiskey bottle,” highlighting colonialism's cultural and territorial aims. Carroll's journey—from tramp to influential monk—reminds us of courage, solidarity, and the enduring desire for justice.

Episode #341: As the military has suffered setbacks in the field, its use of indiscriminate aerial bombing has only increased, taking a deadly toll on civilians and leaving a legacy of trauma for survivors. In this episode, we take you inside a conversation with resistance artists and researchers who have been working with A New Burma, through their exhibitions in Thailand titled “When We See the Planes.” These events shed light on the tragic effects of air strikes – and people's refusal to succumb to this campaign of terror. By using art, performance, sound, and storytelling, these exhibitions serve as a beacon to highlight violations of international law and establish a record for transitional justice, while remembering those who have lost their lives. The events showcase the works of about twenty artists, including frontline Myanmar photographers, put together with the help of Thai curators. “When we do this kind of work, we want to it to be empathy-driven,” says Hnin, the founder of A New Burma. “We want to talk about this topic, not to give knowledge, but to speak to your heart.”

Episode #340: Having taught at Payap University in Chiang Mai from 2016–2022, Tony Waters mentored doctoral students grappling with Myanmar's long history of war, repression, and foreign interference. His students' pride in their cultures, alongside their questioning of the country's fragmentation, helped shape his own understanding of Myanmar's deeper crises and multi-layered history.One dissertation, exploring Ne Win's Burmanization policy, particularly influenced his thinking. It traced the policy's roots to the CIA's Cold War counterinsurgency training, and its evolution into the Tatmadaw's brutal Four Cuts strategy. Waters further critiques how America's anti-Communist strategies, enacted covertly by the CIA, indirectly empowered the expansion of the drug trade.Waters argues that Myanmar's ethnic militias are not reflective of any cultural deficiencies, as some outsiders have implied, but rather rational responses to the absence of a stable, inclusive state. He is also sharply critical of the Western aid sector, particularly USAID, for prioritizing donor interests over local needs, and perpetuating cycles of ineffective development. Skeptical of post-coup “political dialogue” initiatives, Waters asserts that the military junta is structurally incapable of genuine negotiation.Ultimately, he frames Myanmar's continued suffering as the product of Great Power rivalries, stating that as long as China and the U.S. treat the country as a Cold War playground, real change remains elusive. Waters concludes by stressing the nuance required to better understand and engage in Myanmar, “I'm not looking for good and evil, I'm [just] looking for the story and trying to understand the processes.”

Episode #339: Aung, a full-time journalist and women's rights activist, sheds light on the many hardships Myanmar's journalists now face both operating from within and without the country following the 2021 coup and the all-important issue of gender equality in the field.Reflecting back on the transition period, Aung laments that despite the modest advancements made in women's rights and gender equality, the military coup has undone these gains. Now, confronted with unprecedented challenges, she and her colleagues are tirelessly working through various organizations and initiatives to expose the pervasive gender discrimination and violence that persist in newsrooms.Their efforts also focus on creating networks that enable affected female journalists to connect, share experiences, and address these critical issues collectively. Pushing back against those voices that suggest these concerns should be addressed only after the junta is toppled, Aung insists this is partand parcel of the current revolution's objectives. Her story gives an inside look at the obstacles and absurdities that Burmese female journalists are made to confront unduly.In closing, sheinsists that their fight for equality is not code for establishing a new matriarchy; instead, she imagines a world where men and women share the workspace evenly.“Personally,” she attests, “I do not want us exercising some form of dominance over our male colleagues. When we think about our organization's structure, we think, ‘We will need to include their perspectives as well.”

Episode #338: “[The quake] revealed the tragic disconnect between the government's understanding—or perhaps, willingness to communicate—the severity of the disaster and the actual level of risk facing the population.”In a compelling analysis, Professor Dean Kyne critiques Myanmar's disaster management, highlighting how decades of military rule have prioritized authoritarian control over public welfare. He illustrates this with the 2008 Cyclone Nargis, when the junta ignored early warnings and downplayed the storm to proceed with a constitutional referendum ... and over 138,000 people died.Kyne argues that instead of learning from this tragedy, the regime has doubled down, now weaponizing disaster response. Following the recent earthquake, search and rescue was blocked, aid was withheld, and military authorities even prevented international teams from entering. Humanitarian responder Kiran Verma, for instance, was stopped at gunpoint. “This wasn't logistical failure,” Kyne says, “it was humanitarian suppression under authoritarian rule.” He notes that corruption further undermines aid distribution: local junta-aligned leaders steal and resell aid. Worse, young male relief volunteers are reportedly being forcibly recruited, and legitimate aid workers face harassment from pro-junta paramilitaries.Kyne proposes a three-part framework for international response: pragmatic, political, and moral. He urges aid agencies to bypass the junta, work through opposition-held zones, and commit to long-term recovery. Community resilience, he emphasizes, can start with education alone—empowering locals through training and digital platforms.He closes with a message of solidarity: “To the people in Myanmar, you have to be very strong. And for the international community members, please continue with what you have been doing, and please support the affected individuals.”

Episode #337: U Jagara's journey is characterized by a deep commitment to spiritual practice, resilience, and the pursuit of authenticity. Growing up in a small town in Quebec, his early life was marked by a desire to find meaning beyond the material world. Inspired by his brother, U Jagara took his first vipassana meditation course with S.N. Goenka, and eventually traveled to Europe, India, and Burma, where he ordained as a monk under Mahasi Sayadaw. He persevered in this endeavor despite the challenges posed by cultural differences and an unstable, political climate.Visa issues forced U Jagara to leave Burma, prompting him to continue his monastic journey in Sri Lanka. There, U he lived a simple ascetic lifestyle, re-incorporating the Goenka meditation method into his practice as he also ventured to India for long retreats, and spending time in isolated, mountain hermitages. He emphasizes the importance of embodying spiritual principles in all aspects of daily life, not just during formal meditation sessions.After 15 years, U Jagara took a break from monastic life, moving to France where he disrobed, lived a lay lifestyle, and fell in love. This phase offered insights into attachment, intimacy, and the balance between worldly and spiritual commitments. Eventually, Burma's reopening led him back; he re-ordained, focusing on cultivating advanced meditative states at Pa Auk Monastery.A key theme throughout his journey is balancing structure and freedom in spiritual practice. U Jagara stresses the importance of critical inquiry and creativity, cautioning against rigid attachment to any one tradition. He acknowledges the human vulnerabilities of monks, advocating for a realistic understanding of spiritual life. His story encourages embracing both discipline and freedom, while maintaining an urgency to pursue true liberation—a journey that requires resilience, openness, and a willingness to question and adapt.As U Jagara puts it, “Sometimes we need a slap from reality that helps us to wake up to the fact that we are going to die, and that the sickness and all these things are just part of our existence. When we are aware of that, then we will keep that kind of eagerness just to keep our life in that direction. It's a sense of urgency, saṃvega, that dimension in Buddhism.”

Episode #336: “We just want war to end.”With this blunt declaration, Malaysian MP Wong Chen encapsulates his call for ASEAN to play a constructive role in resolving Myanmar's civil war. Speaking from Bangkok, Wong outlines Malaysia's two-pronged approach during its ASEAN chairmanship: first, cutting off weapons, revenue, and logistical support to both the junta and resistance forces to pressure them toward negotiation; and second, leveraging Malaysia's strong ties with China to push for a peaceful resolution before the chair rotates to the Philippines, who does not have as good a relationship with the regional giant.While personally critical of the junta, Wong insists Malaysia must act as a neutral facilitator to be effective. He proposes appointing Thailand's military, which has close ties with both the SAC and resistance groups, as ASEAN's long-term adviser on Myanmar. Wong also supports a temporary halt in arms and trade, particularly in jade and rare earths, as a way to weaken the junta's war economy and force it to the table. For Myanmar's ethnic armed groups, he urges reframing dialogue around economic incentives and a federalist model. Regarding the NUG's possible participation in such talks and beyond, Wong expresses sympathy for the organization, but critiques its lack of military presence, leadership clarity, and funding. He warns it could be sidelined in future negotiations unless it reorganizes.Wong is sharply critical of ASEAN, blaming a lack of political will and calling for a dedicated ASEAN parliamentary body to lead on issues like Myanmar. Though he doubts quick results, he urges bold steps now and insists, “We cannot give up.”

Episode #335: “It was super hard to cope with.” That's how Mia Kruska, a German researcher and policy advisor with the Green Party in Berlin, describes learning about the devastating earthquake that recently struck Myanmar. Mia has cultivated personal, academic, and professional ties to the country over the past decade. Her connection began with a backpacking trip in 2014 that evolved into her academic career. She also served as board chair of the Myanmar Institut in Germany and currently works on Southeast Asia policy issues.When the earthquake hit, after checking in on her friends in Myanmar and along the Thai border, she was overwhelmed by emotion and helplessness. But rather than simply repost traumatic images, she turned to a lesson from her early time in Myanmar: Burmese generosity. She recalls, “You have to be thankful for giving,” and used this insight to encourage meaningful, grassroots donations.Mia challenges Western narratives that cast Myanmar as mainly a victim. She emphasizes the resilience and reciprocity of its people—both within the country and in exile. She also reflects critically on the ethical responsibilities of Western researchers, highlighting the importance of acknowledging privilege and subjective bias, and the willingness to engage with humility in collaborative endeavors.Her message to fellow allies is clear: show empathy, offer material support, and don't be deterred by complexity. “Even ten euros make a little difference,” she says. Ultimately, despite the many challenges, Mia concludes with an enduring sentiment: “I still have hope.”

Episode #334: James Rodehaver, head of the UN Human Rights Office on Myanmar, describes the aftermath of the country's recent earthquake as a crisis layered upon crises. With communities already devastated by a brutal military regime, the natural disaster has only intensified their suffering. Yet instead of pausing hostilities, the military launched over 100 attacks in just nine days—many targeting rescue efforts and civilians. Consistent with a long-standing pattern, the junta has weaponized aid, restricting access to opposition-held areas and rebranding the disaster to channel relief only to zones it controls. The military‘s strategy appears deliberately cruel. Notably, paramotors—silent man-powered gliders used to drop explosives—have struck rescue workers and survivors. Despite a declared ceasefire, attacks continue, reinforcing the military's aim to break morale in opposition areas.As a result, the humanitarian response has been severely hampered. Adding to this, civil society had already been gutted by years of conscription, repression, and exile, so now, the only ones digging through the rubble are poorly equipped civilians, often under threat of violence or forced labor. Rodehaver notes that even informal relief efforts are becoming increasingly difficult.Rodehaver calls for a coordinated international political push, and a unified resistance front. He envisions a broad platform where anti-junta groups can articulate shared goals. Only through trust, coordination, and outside pressure, he argues, can progress be made. Closing with a personal note, he honors those inside Myanmar: “Their courage and unflappable will to keep on resisting tyranny ... has been inspirational.”

Episode #333: “The challenging times that we are facing reveal more than what we should do—they reveal who we should be.”So says Jeshua Soh, a Singaporean entrepreneur who has built a life in Myanmar grounded in long-term commitment, creativity, and service. Calling himself a contrarian in his life and business choices, he was first drawn to the country after a teenage-year visit in 2012; his connection to the country strengthened through volunteer work and friendships. To solve problems of hiring in his field, video production, where global freelancers and Singaporeans alike frequently left his employ for more lucrative gigs, he decided to take a chance and open a Yangon office for his company, building on his feeling of connection to the country. It worked. His Burmese team proved remarkably loyal; soon, other startups asked to place staff with him because of his success and growing expertise in the Myanmar business climate. This led to the launch of Crosswork, an HR-as-a-service platform that now supports over 120 employees.Alongside running his business, Jeshua launched a storytelling campaign to counter Myanmar's negative global image and highlight the country's culture, people, and potential. He has also taken on humanitarian initiatives, including cycling from Singapore and walking 500 kilometers from Bangkok to raise over 150,000 SGD for the Mae Tao Clinic. Just minutes after completing the walk, a powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar, prompting Jeshua and his team to quickly mobilize and lead extensive relief efforts.A core concern for Jeshua is Myanmar's brain drain. He urges those who've left not to give up on returning, warning that international aid alone can't substitute for skilled citizens who help rebuild. While he acknowledges safety concerns and doesn't romanticize the country's challenges, Jeshua believes in choosing action over paralysis. “I'm swinging for the fences,” he says. “And I think that there is value in a bit of contrarian thinking. Usually, it starts off something like a crazy idea—[that is] until more people start following!”

Episode #332: “We should do something to change, or we should have [an] alternative way to do something,” says Lily, a Myanmar-based artist and documentary filmmaker who has turned from observer to humanitarian in the aftermath of Myanmar's devastating earthquake.Originally intending to document the destruction in the Sagaing region, Lily quickly shifted focus confronted by the chaos on the ground. Filming became too risky due to military surveillance, and the humanitarian need was overwhelming. She began working alongside monks and volunteers, distributing aid and conducting needs assessments. Traumatized survivors, collapsed buildings, and the scent of death painted a grim picture. Yet what struck Lily most was the spontaneous community response in the absence of government leadership—monasteries, mosques, and local volunteers self-organized to help.Lily emphasizes the importance of asking communities directly what they need, even when survivors are too disoriented to fully articulate it. She believes that showing care and listening is a powerful act in itself. However, she's concerned about inefficient donations and the sustainability of relief once panic subsides. Memories of Cyclone Nargis, when military corruption diverted aid, still haunt locals, making many donors wary of formal channels. Though international support has been modest, mostly through grassroots networks, Lily stresses that solidarity—not pity—is essential.This experience has changed her: no longer just documenting from a distance, she is immersed in the rebuilding process. “If we have some intention—to change or to transform or to rebuild or to reconnect—we have some direction… That's, I think, what I'm doing.”

Episode #331: “My friend told me it is like the crumbling of the world, because everywhere, everywhere is destruction.”Burmese Buddhist nun Sayalay (who has chosen not to give her full Pāḷi name for safety concerns) speaks about the humanitarian crisis following the devastating earthquake in central Myanmar. Focusing on the country's spiritual heartland, the Sagaing Hills, home to centuries-old monasteries and nunneries, she describes how the region was hit hard, with monks and nuns killed, buildings collapsed, and survivors left without clean water, shelter, or medical aid. Critical infrastructure, including bridges connecting Sagaing to Mandalay, was badly damaged, delaying relief. Junta restrictions further obstructed rescue efforts, blocking aid and forbidding the use of essential heavy machinery.It's mainly volunteers who are working rescue operations, but they are severely limited as to what they can use because of the junta's paranoia; even basic tools are sometimes confiscated. Hiring machinery to clear rubble costs more than many nunneries can afford, yet without it, decomposing bodies pose serious health risks. Survivors, especially young nuns, suffer from trauma and nightmares. Some speak of visitations from the dead, pleading for help from beneath the rubble.Sayalay, a former nurse, is coordinating aid through her nonprofit, Metta Stream Foundation, and stresses the importance of spiritual action. “When we practice mettā bhavana, it's not only for us to recite…but we need to do it physically.” Her message is one of compassion, resilience, and a call for global solidarity with those suffering in Myanmar.

Episode #330: “When President Bush called that morning and said, ‘Pull back [away from Myanmar],' I just couldn't compose myself. I broke down in front of all the Marines, and so I had to run into the bathroom and I just cried and cried,” says Mie Mie Winn Byrd. “I knew we had all the capability to help them, to relieve suffering and provide aid, but there was nothing I could do.”In a powerful and emotional reflection, retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mie Mie Winn Byrd recounts her role in Operation Caring Response, a U.S. humanitarian relief mission following Cyclone Nargis in 2008, which killed over 135,000 and displaced millions. Born in Burma, Byrd brought vital regional expertise to the U.S. effort. Yet despite American readiness to help, Myanmar's military regime blocked aid access, allowing only limited deliveries of critical supplies, which it then left to rot on—or disappear from—the tarmac.Byrd draws clear and direct parallels between Cyclone Nargis and the recent earthquake in Myanmar, underscoring the military's pattern of paranoia, cruelty and obstruction. Byrd calls the junta not a legitimate government, or even a legitimate army, but rather a Mafia-like, organized crime syndicate.In contrast, she finds inspiration in Myanmar's civil society and diaspora, whose grassroots response has saved lives despite immense hardship. She urges international donors to bypass the military and support trusted, local actors: “They open up their hearts, their purse, and [are] doing it again.”

Episode #329: “How could this happen now?! I mean, are we part of the problem allowing Burma to slip to that ‘ninth layer of hell?'”These anguished words from longtime USAID official Chris Milligan reflect his heartbreak over the U.S. failure to adequately respond to Myanmar's devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake. Milligan, who helped reopen USAID's Myanmar mission in 2012, recalls building it from scratch as part of a broader U.S. strategy to support democratic and economic reforms without legitimizing the military regime.Regarding the landscape of development aid for Burma, he explains it is “a land of good intentions with unintended consequences," where uninformed international aid could easily do more harm than good. Still, his years there were deeply fulfilling. He saw rapid progress and strong partnerships, though he regrets being unable to help resolve the humanitarian crisis in Rakhine State.Milligan underscores USAID's value—not just abroad, but at home—calling it essential for American interests, stability, trade, and global influence. He contrasts the U.S. model of development with China's state-centric approach, warning that American withdrawal leaves a dangerous vacuum. So he bemoans the Trump administration ‘s dismantling the core of the agency. USAID once led major disaster responses, but due to those massive program cuts, its Myanmar earthquake response resulted in snding just three people and $2 million. He fears that unless the U.S. re-engages, the long-term consequences will be dire.Milligan looks back very fondly on his time in the country, especially the warmth and generosity of its people. “That's why it was also inspiring,” he says. “It made you want to work harder to support them… because they saw a brighter future for themselves, and you wanted to help them get there.”Consider a donation to support our Earthquake Emergency Fund!

Episode #328: In the aftermath of Myanmar's devastating earthquake, Htuu Lou Rae paints a grim picture of systemic neglect and discrimination faced by the country's Muslim community. The disaster struck during ‘Eid al-Fitr, the holiest day of Ramadan, when mosques were packed with worshipers. Tragically, many of these mosques—centuries old—collapsed due to decades of state-imposed bans on their repair. Rae highlights how successive regimes denied routine maintenance of these religious sites, effectively turning them into death traps.Beyond the earthquake's physical toll, Htuu Lou Rae describes a deeper, ongoing crisis: institutional and social discrimination that continued through the rescue phase. He reports that junta-led efforts largely ignored Muslim victims, and even civil society-led aid responses may be compromised by lingering anti-Muslim sentiment. Online abuse and discriminatory denial of housing further underscore the community's marginalization.Htuu Lou Rae also warns against the junta's cynical manipulation of Muslim suffering to attract international aid—particularly from Muslim-majority countries like Pakistan—while hoarding resources for its own benefit. He advocates bypassing both the junta and the National Unity Government (NUG), calling instead for aid to flow through trusted organizations like USAID and Muslim-led civil society groups. Despite the bleakness,Yet Htuu Lou Rae sees a silver lining amid all the challenges. He has observed growing public solidarity across ethnic and religious lines, and envisions a coordinated, independent relief mechanism to address the crisis effectively. “Doesn't that make more sense and isn't [it] also going to, at the same time, help the country recover from this multi-layered humanitarian crisis?”

Episode #327: In the wake of Myanmar's devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake, Meredith Bunn, founder of Skills for Humanity (SFH), describes a catastrophic humanitarian crisis compounded by years of civil war. Entire towns lie in ruins, clean water is scarce, medical facilities are overwhelmed, and children—many already malnourished—are now orphaned or trapped in rubble. “We get calls consistently throughout the day… in some cases, we have found their bodies,” Bunn says. “There is just a lot of people who are missing but still lying next to a dead body.”Aid workers face severe risks: military assaults, detentions, and a lack of coordination that leaves families in limbo. The junta, Bunn warns, is exploiting the disaster for propaganda and military advantage, even bombing earthquake-struck areas. International aid routed through the junta, she cautions, will only further empower this regime. “We're talking to a war criminal,” she says.Bunn urges international agencies to support community-based groups and ethnic networks that can reach affected populations. She calls for both funding and specific supplies like water filters, medical kits, and food. While many want to help on the ground, she advises supporting remotely due to security risks. Governments and global bodies must avoid legitimizing the junta and instead engage with local civil society. Amid overwhelming tragedy, she and her teams persist—saving lives one mission at a time.

Episode #326: “Every country could face disaster, but every country also has plans to respond to those kind of like devastating events. But our country is not like others! We don't have the manpower, we don't have the techniques, we don't have the preparation and equipment. So usually, what we most rely on is volunteers and the unity of the whole country,” says Kyaw Kyaw. “But now this time, it is not happening, since all the volunteers and the technicians and the experts, they are in prison or in the other countries.”Kyaw Kyaw, a former military doctor and CDM defector, gives a chilling account of the destruction following the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar. He estimates over 10,000 people may be dead in cities like Mandalay and Sagaing alone—far exceeding the junta's official figure of 1,700. Entire cities have been leveled, with survivors trapped under rubble for days. Many die slowly, their cries fading as rescue efforts falter due to a lack of proper tools, training, and manpower.With bodies decomposing under debris and in the streets, the cities themselves are becoming public health hazards. People are forced to live near the dead, and calls have shifted from rescuing the living to simply removing corpses. Yet the junta continues to block aid convoys, enforce curfews, and restrict information flow. Foreign journalists are barred from entering. International rescue teams were diverted to Naypyidaw, where military facilities were quickly cleaned and repaired—while areas most in need remain sealed off.Even as resistance groups offered a ceasefire and assistance, the military refused cooperation. Worse, it has reportedly continued airstrikes in earthquake-affected zones and even conscripted young people in the midst of the disaster.Kyaw Kyaw emphasizes that local volunteers are doing what they can, but without equipment or freedom to act, their impact is limited. He appeals for international help, but warns donors to be careful. Aid must go directly to those working on the ground—not through junta channels.Donate today to provide urgent relief for earthquake victims!

Episode #325: “It's going to take days, if not weeks, to really get a full picture on how devastating this initial earthquake was, let alone these aftershocks that were expected.”A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake, followed by a major aftershock, struck central Myanmar, leaving behind widespread devastation. Entire regions, particularly along the Yangon-Mandalay corridor, were heavily damaged.Michael Martin, an analyst with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, explains how Myanmar's political fragmentation severely complicates aid delivery. The country is divided between the military junta (SAC), ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), and People's Defense Forces (PDFs), making coordinated relief efforts nearly impossible. Civil society organizations are trying to respond but face communication barriers and limited support from international actors.Martin critiques the role of the SAC, which has historically weaponized aid, prioritizing its own interests and obstructing relief to opposition areas. EAOs have demonstrated more effective local distribution through long-standing networks, but international agencies are often reluctant to work outside official channels. The National Unity Government (NUG) lacks the capacity and recognition to serve as a central coordinator.Martin warns that despite early pledges from regional powers, international interest may wane. He stresses the urgent need for recovery-focused aid before monsoon season worsens conditions. Ultimately, he expresses cautious hope in the resilience of the Burmese people, who have long endured hardship with determination and strength.“Now you're seeing people all over the country, not only taking up arms to get rid of the military, but also gathering and saying, ‘Okay, now that we got them out of here, how do we want to be governed in our town, in our township, in our ethnic state, in our region, however It may be.' I suspect that if the international community doesn't fully pull the weight that it probably should, that the people in the country will find a way of getting by, because that's what they've done for decades. They get by in their terrible circumstances.”Please consider a donation today to our earthquake relief fund!

Episode #324: In a deeply moving interview, Thiri discusses the devastating aftermath of the recent 7.7-magnitude earthquake, set against the backdrop of ongoing political turmoil. With communication lines down and infrastructure destroyed, even basic information about the crisis has been difficult to obtain—making reporting and relief coordination nearly impossible.Since the 2021 coup, the military junta has systematically dismantled media freedom and community support networks. Journalists are in exile or hiding, and many volunteers face arrest simply for helping. Despite this, grassroots rescue efforts have been heroic, with civilians digging survivors out by hand. The military, meanwhile, underreports casualties and stages propaganda photo ops, creating a false image of control and care.Thiri warns that the junta's sudden welcome of international aid is a calculated attempt to mask the true scale of devastation, seek legitimacy, and potentially repurpose aid for military use. She urges donors to apply “conflict sensitivity”—a deep understanding of Myanmar's political context—and work directly with trusted local organizations rather than the junta.The emotional toll is immense: families separated, loved ones missing, and grief compounded by misinformation and fear. Amid continued military airstrikes, Thiri says the suffering is not just from the quake, but from the coup itself.She calls on the international community to act responsibly: support grassroots Burmese networks, avoid legitimizing the regime, and understand that for Myanmar, even basic humanitarian aid has become a political battleground. “We just want to live in peace,” she says. “But even that feels like too much right now.”

Episode #323: “Quite frankly, and I might catch flak for this, but I'll say it: there is a special place in hell for those who seek to exploit or weaponize this aid, or block this aid for political purposes from getting to those affected communities.”Jack Myint delivers a powerful and urgent appeal following the catastrophic, March 28th, 7.7-magnitude earthquake in central Myanmar that devastated Mandalay and nearby regions, leaving hospitals, monasteries, universities, and homes in ruins. He describes how the initial rescue efforts came from ordinary citizens using basic tools to save lives. But he notes that, while heroic, such actions are not enough in the face of such widespread devastation. He also mourns the destruction of Mandalay's historic and religious landmarks, calling the national trauma incalculable.In the context of Myanmar's ongoing political crisis since the 2021 coup, Jack pleads for international aid that bypasses politics and directly supports affected communities. He outlines three paths for U.S. involvement: direct emergency assistance via USAID, cooperation with regional allies like India and Singapore, and support through international bodies such as the UN and ASEAN. He insists that these options are not mutually exclusive and must be pursued with urgency.He closes by urging support for Better Burma's grassroots fundraising and immediate international action, emphasizing that lives hang in the balance. “The people simply don't have time to wait through political deliberations,” he says, calling for direct support to those already saving lives on the ground.

Episode #322: Hector and Dr. Paing's story is a testament to determination in the face of overwhelming challenges. Following the 2021 military coup in Myanmar, they left their medical careers to provide care in conflict-ridden Karenni State. Initially strangers to the region, they overcame deep mistrust from the Karenni community, who equated their Bamar origins with oppression. By establishing clinics and proving their commitment, they slowly earned the enduring trust of the Karenni people.Their work is fraught with dangers, from bombings that destroyed their first hospital to relentless drone surveillance. Relocating to the jungle, they constructed a makeshift hospital, gradually upgrading its facilities despite limited resources. Secrecy is vital to protect patients and staff from military airstrikes. Supplies often need to be sourced through unreliable channels, while electricity and water remain scarce. Internet access only became feasible in 2023 with the arrival of Starlink. Their mission exposes them to the horrors of war: landmines, airstrikes, and suicide drones inflict devastating injuries, leaving physical and emotional scars. Both staff and civilians grappled with PTSD and depression, yet they find hope through communal resilience and shared moments of joy in improvised celebrations.Despite limited funding and volunteer burnout, Hector and Dr. Paing continue, driven by the belief that health is a universal right. They have become builders, fundraisers, and documentarians, collecting data to ensure future accountability and systemic improvements. Their transformation over three years reflects their deep commitment to a better future for Myanmar.As Dr. Paing states, “Please, don't be trapped under the policy. Do what you can do urgently and immediately. Health is the human family, and health is peace.” Their story stands as a call to action and a symbol of unwavering dedication to humanity amid conflict.

Episode #321: Growing up in Indonesia, Evy Zulyani found her passion for social justice early on, using her skills as a high school journalist to expose corruption. This experience gave her a first taste of how activism could transform society, even on a small scale. She found inspiration in community involvement, particularly through her work providing non-formal education to poor children, solidifying her belief in collective action and grassroots change.After college, Evy joined an NGO supporting migrant workers, where she witnessed the deep systemic injustices faced by Indonesian women returning from working abroad. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Evy transitioned to digital activism, joining the Milk Tea Alliance—a transnational solidarity movement uniting activists across Asia. Myanmar's 2021 coup became a focal point of her activism, inspiring solidarity actions, including protests in front of the ASEAN Secretariat.Evy's approach to activism embraces creativity and resilience. She organized unique protests in Jakarta like “Bike for Myanmar” and collaborated with artists and musicians, using art to express resistance to the Burmese regime. Despite facing burnout and exhaustion, Evy relied on her community for strength, emphasizing that activism could not be done alone. She also co-created 'The Dictator's Playbook,' a zine that educated activists on state repression tactics and strategies to counter them.Above all, love is a central tenant to Evy's activism. She sees love as a radical, transformative act—essential in sustaining hope, protecting one another, and turning pain into power. “Love transforms the darkness,” she says. “I think love can radicalize you. If you go with the path of love, I think the power of love is limitless. So don't forget to love yourself and love others. Just spread love.”

Episode #320: Don Tajaroensuk's story is one deeply influenced by the experiences of refugees and the human rights work led by his mother. As a child growing up in Thailand, Don's home became a temporary refuge for people political turmoil, on their way to resettlement. Initially, Don didn't understand the gravity of their circumstances. To him, they were simply house guests; it wasn't until he was older that he realized they were refugees, displaced by the instability in their homelands.This early exposure shaped his worldview and eventual activism. Don's mother, Chalida, is a prominent figure in the human rights and democracy movements, working across Southeast Asia on issues related to migration and political activism. She would often be away for months at a time, engaged in work that Don didn't fully comprehend as a child. It was only through the stories of her friends that Don pieced together her role in supporting democracy movements around the world.Following in her footsteps, Don has committed himself to grassroots activism, focusing on the intersection of migration, human rights, and democracy. His work is informed by the intimate understanding of displacement he gained from a young age. Today, he continues to advocate for the rights of refugees, particularly those from Myanmar, and strives to educate Thai society on the urgent need to address these humanitarian crises.“What we should understand is that [Burmese people] have supported Thai society a lot. I can say that with our Myanmar friends being here, Thai society can really develop at lighting speed!” he exclaims. “When I talk with them, actually, they really don't want to make any problem for Thailand. They don't want to disturb the country, they don't make any problem. They want to pay taxes! And they are already part of our society. If we have more respect towards them, then our country will be better.”

Episode #319: Nyan Linn Htet, founder and managing editor of Mekong News, joins the podcast to discuss the complex dynamics that shape the media landscape, as well as the worsening conflict in eastern Shan State. Mekong News, established in 2019 in Tachileik, focuses on reporting under-covered issues, including drug smuggling, local ethnic groups, and powerful armed organizations active in the region.The region Nyan Linn Htet reports on is located near the notorious Golden Triangle. It is rife with illegal drug trade, largely unregulated due to corruption and safety concerns. Authorities often ignore drug production and distribution, accepting bribes or fearing retaliation. This has allowed the trade of methamphetamine, heroin, and other drugs to thrive, fueling both economic dependence and local militias. Nyan Linn Htet notes how this complex web of interests among military factions, ethnic armed groups, and criminal enterprises affects the area's stability and the safety of journalists covering such sensitive topics. Since the coup, independent media like Mekong News has operated in exile, emphasizing the critical role of regional journalism in amplifying marginalized voices and documenting human rights abuses amid the ongoing turmoil in Myanmar.The region's sociopolitical landscape is equally fragmented. Competing armed groups like the United Wa State Army (UWSA) and the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) maintain uneasy relationships with Myanmar's military while pursuing their own agendas, often prioritizing autonomy over broader democratic ideals. For instance, the UWSA is known to align with China, while the RCSS has connections to Thailand, complicating ceasefire agreements and political negotiations.“Every leader of the EAOs talk about federal democracy, but it may be their second political aim. To get their control of their area is the first political aim,” he says. “I don't mean they are not interested in federal democracy. Maybe federal democracy is their final aim.”Note: This episode was recorded last year. Within the last month, we have become aware of concerning statements made by the guest on his social media feed regarding women, as well as allegations of sexual harassment. The content of this episode focuses solely on his perspectives as a journalist covering the regions around eastern Shan state. However, in the interest of transparency, we believe it is important for our audience to be aware of these developments before listening.

For this Bonus Episode, we share a talk presented at Nowhere Books in Chiang Mai, which was hosted alongside Yucca, the Research Director at Exile Hub.We are including the following description which was prepared by event organizers:Buddhism and anarchism, though originating in distinct realms—spiritual and political—share key commonalities that make for a thought-provoking intersection. Both reject coercive authority and hierarchical structures, emphasizing individual responsibility and autonomy. Buddhism, particularly Zen, encourages personal liberation through inner peace, mindfulness, and detachment from desire, while anarchism advocates for a free, non-hierarchical society based on mutual aid and voluntary cooperation. Both traditions emphasize non-violence and compassion, valuing simplicity and interconnectedness within communities.However, notable contradictions exist. Buddhism's focus on spiritual detachment and acceptance of suffering contrasts with anarchism's drive for political resistance and material change. While Buddhists aim to alleviate suffering through personal transformation and mindfulness, anarchists see suffering as rooted in unjust social systems that require active resistance. Additionally, the hierarchical nature of some Buddhist communities contrasts with anarchism's emphasis on egalitarian, horizontal structures. Despite these differences, the overlapping values of personal freedom, non-violence, and community-based ethics make the relationship between Buddhism and anarchism a fascinating area of exploration.The talk was presented at Nowhere Books, a “third culture” Chinese language space whose cultural activities include lectures, publishing, curation, theme camps and other programs. It was part of a series called the Digital Humanities Un, an initiative sponsored by digi-cnx, a local Chiang Mai network committed to dialogue and research on how digital technologies are impacting both people and our planet. Many thanks to Dev Lewis for his role in helping to arrange the talk.

Episode #318: Lynne Bousfield grew up in Australia, and led a fairly conventional life. But in 1975, when she was a student at the university, she received a postcard from her brother in Thailand. The picture of golden stupas stirred something stirred something deep within her. After some adventures in Indonesia, Thailand, Laos and India, she still felt she had not found what she was seeking. But she had to replenish her coffers, and so went on to Iran to find work. While there, an expat she met told her about a meditation retreat in Bodghaya taught by someone named Munindra. That was it! Lynne dropped what she was doing and headed back to India. There, under Munindra's guidance, she embarked on her first meditation retreat, a transformative experience that set her firmly on the path of Vipassana meditation. This practice, deeply rooted in the Mahasi Sayadaw tradition, became the cornerstone of her spiritual journey.Lynne's commitment to the practice grew stronger with time, leading her to spend extended periods in Burma, where she deepened her understanding under the tutelage of some of the most respected meditation masters. She also met many Western seekers like herself, who became well-known Dhamma teachers in their own right. Returning to Australia, Lynne helped establish a retreat center, where she has long been a teacher. She also went back to school to become a licensed therapist. Way ahead of her time, she began integrating mindfulness practice in her therapeutic work.Today, Lynne sees a huge loss in the closing off of Burma and the violence and destruction there. She feels the world is losing access to the wellspring of authentic meditation teachers that had set her on her path. “I think meeting people like Mahasi Sayadaw, you're in the presence of something that is very hard to describe. There's some kind of recognition with it, but to try to describe it would make it sounds like nothing… but that was trustworthy and true.”

Episode #317: Derek Mitchell's engagement with Myanmar began unexpectedly in the 1990s when he attended a human rights event featuring Aung San Suu Kyi. Years later, he became the first U.S. Special Representative and later Ambassador to Myanmar, playing a crucial role in shaping U.S. policy toward the country.Under the Obama administration, the U.S. reassessed its approach, transitioning from sanctions to diplomatic engagement. Mitchell was tasked with determining whether Myanmar's new government, led by Thein Sein, was genuinely committed to reform. While political prisoners were released and civil society restrictions eased, skepticism remained, especially as the military, under Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing, retained significant power.Mitchell championed an action-for-action approach, incrementally easing sanctions in response to reforms. While some criticized this as premature, he defended engagement, arguing, “We have to recognize that Myanmar is a country, not a cause.” He believed isolating Myanmar would only deepen military control while economic and political incentives could encourage democratic progress.The 2015 elections marked a milestone as Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD) won by a landslide. However, ethnic minorities remained wary, and military control persisted under the 2008 Constitution. Then the Rohingya crisis of 2017 shattered hopes of democratic transition, exposing the military's unchecked power. “I realized that was a ticking time bomb, and that it could go off at any time,” Mitchell recalls.The 2021 coup confirmed his fears, revealing how fragile Myanmar's democratic reforms had been. Post-coup, Myanmar entered a period of profound instability, with mass resistance challenging military rule. Mitchell stresses that external pressure remains crucial, stating, “There should be absolute, airtight pressure, not just from the United States, but from the frontline states to this regime, to say, ‘this is unacceptable.'”

Episode #316: “Hunger and undernutrition in Myanmar is a political failure, and it's a conscious political failure that's devastating,” says Thin Lei Win, a journalist dedicated to exposing Myanmar's struggles with food security and press freedom.As a co-founder of Kite Tales, a non-profit storytelling project, she seeks to challenge mainstream narratives by amplifying personal stories that reflect Myanmar's diverse realities. She says that before the 2021 coup, journalists were beginning to move beyond just reactions to events into more nuanced kinds of stories, but since the coup, press freedom has deteriorated, forcing many into exile or silence.Thin also highlights the paradox of Myanmar's food production: despite its fertile soil, ample water and warm climate, large numbers of Burmes suffer from malnutrition due to political neglect and systemic policies. The military's Four Cuts strategy has worsened food insecurity, using starvation as a weapon to control vulnerable communities. She argues that this is not simply a result of poverty but a deliberate choice by those in power.Beyond food and press freedom, Thin is deeply concerned about climate change's impact on Myanmar. Extreme weather disproportionately affects farmers, exacerbating existing inequalities. She advocates for sustainable farming and policy reforms to address these interconnected crises.The post-coup resistance has led to a shift in Myanmar's cultural and political consciousness. People are increasingly questioning traditional authorities, including the role of Buddhism in politics. Thin believes meaningful change will require difficult conversations and sustained activism. “If given a chance to rebuild, I think we can build a Myanmar that is so much stronger, caring, truly caring, and a force for good,” she says.

Episode #315: Responding to the question of why he left a comfortable life in Australia to join the resistance against the Burmese military in Karenni state, Jay says, “I would just say it's the crimes against the children. I have a child myself, and we're extremely lucky to be in a Western country where my child can grow up relatively safe. Seeing the reels and videos about children being murdered pulled on my heartstrings, big time. That was the driving factor of me wanting to do something.”Inspired by a chance social media encounter highlighting atrocities committed by the military in Myanmar, Jay traveled to Karenni State to offer medical expertise he had learned during his stint in the Australian army. There, he found a region ravaged by violence largely overlooked by the international community, yet powered by an unyielding hope for freedom.Jay offers a harrowing portrait of his time in Karenni: traversing the unforgiving terrain; working in under-resourced and makeshift medical outposts; stumbling across atrocities; and seeing displaced families struggling to survive. Jay worked alongside Karenni fighters, providing life-saving medical care in the face of overwhelming challenges, including a devastating mine explosion that killed several and left others critically injured.His vivid accounts also stress the resilience and determination of the Karenni people. Whether describing children navigating life in refugee camps or the solemn unity of funeral ceremonies for fallen fighters, Jay paints a portrait of a community bound by courage and faith. Despite lacking funding or proper equipment, the Karenni fighters persist against the oppressive junta, motivated by a shared vision of liberation.In reflecting on his experiences, Jay expresses a deep sense of gratitude for his own circumstances and a renewed commitment to using his privileges to help others. “The Karenni people and the Burmese people are just strong,” he says. “They don't get paid at all; they're only in it for freedom. A lot of them have had families killed at the hands of Burmese soldiers, but their community takes care of them. This sense of unity is huge. You can just see it in their way of life.”

Episode #314: Celito Arlegue, the Executive Director of the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats (CALD), offers a reflective account of his organization's involvement with Myanmar. He discusses CALD's initial engagement with Myanmar's National League for Democracy (NLD), providing training and support leading up to the 2015 elections, and recalls the optimism of that period, with many NLD members showing remarkable resilience despite years of imprisonment and torture. These experiences were life-changing for Arlegue, who was struck by the leaders' focus on national reconciliation and democratic progress instead of any justifiable animosity toward the military.However, Arlegue also admits that CALD was unprepared for the challenges the NLD would face in governance, particularly during the Rohingya crisis. The complexities of this crisis strained relations between CALD and the NLD, as the organization struggled to balance its support for democracy with the need to address human rights violations. Arlegue expresses regret that CALD did not do more during this period, acknowledging the difficulty of navigating such a delicate situation.In the aftermath of the 2021 military coup, CALD's connections with Myanmar's democratic forces have become increasingly difficult to maintain, as many leaders are now in exile or imprisoned. Arlegue underscores the importance of international recognition for the National Unity Government (NUG) and calls for greater support for Myanmar's resistance forces, including military aid. Despite the challenges, Arlegue remains hopeful, recognizing the extraordinary courage and determination of the Myanmar people in their fight for democracy and human rights.“I have to say that I'm really surprised that ASEAN is not recognizing this as a regional security issue,” he says. “The mere fact that it's happening within our borders, and as ASEAN, we could not do anything about it! It really baffles me why ASEAN is not doing enough on this particular issue.” Arlegue further calls on ASEAN to recognize the NUG and CRPH as “the legitimate voices of the Myanmar people.”

Episode #313: This second interview with Friedgard Lottermoser, recorded in 2023 before her she passed away on August 8th, 2024, delves deeper into her remarkable journey from wartime Berlin to Burma, where her life was inexorably shaped by her 1959 Vipassana course under Sayagyi U Ba Khin. She agreed to share her story only posthumously, due to concerns that the Goenka Vipassana Organization might block her acceptance to long-courses.This chapter of Friedgard's story unfolds during her formative years in Burma, where she encountered the transformative teachings of U Ba Khin, a pioneering Burmese meditation teacher who emphasized Vipassana as a means of liberation. Through her reflections, she recounts profound spiritual breakthroughs, including instructions reserved only for advanced practitioners, which allowed her to experience deeper stages of meditation and the impermanence of existence.U Ba Khin's mentorship shines as a cornerstone of her journey. His ability to guide students through advanced meditative states, such as the “bhaṅga,” is paired with his emphasis on self-discipline and spiritual resilience. Friedgard's narrative also highlights her connection with Mother Sayama, whose rapid spiritual evolution and steadfast dedication exemplified the transformative potential of Vipassana. Meanwhile, the influence of Webu Sayadaw, who inspired U Ba Khin to teach widely, contextualizes the broader spiritual lineage in which these practices are rooted.Friedgard also reflects on the role of S.N. Goenka, one of U Ba Khin's most prominent disciples. As Goenka transitioned from student to global teacher, his journey paralleled the spread of Burmese Vipassana worldwide, underscoring the universal applicability of these teachings.“When Goenka was successful in India, U Ba Khin has said, ‘Oh, I will go to India!' That was shortly before his death. If he didn't die, he would probably try and get to India,” she says. “He thought he should be very encouraging of Goenka, so he used to say, ‘You are not doing this on your own. I'm behind you. You are doing it on my behalf. Don't worry, you will be successful.'”

Episode #312: August grew up in a loving household in Taunggyi, albeit one steeped in conservative values and connected to the military. But as he matured, his worldview began to diverge from his family's, especially after he attended a pre-collegiate program where he heard firsthand stories of the military's brutality against ethnic minorities. These accounts shattered the narrative he had grown up with, creating a rift between him and his family, particularly his grandfather, who had once been involved in suppressing protests.August also faced challenges regarding his sexuality. Coming out as gay deepened the distance between him and his family, though his mother eventually showed signs of acceptance. This tension came to a head during the February 2021 military coup. August's mother downplayed the coup, urging patience, but August felt an urgency to act. He joined student protests, which led to his expulsion from school, and ultimately, to his leaving home.The risks of staying in Myanmar grew, with threats from the military and sexual harassment from a civil society supervisor forcing August to flee to Thailand in November, 2022. In Chiang Mai, he found a supportive community of like-minded exiles. He organizes protests, used art as a form of activism, and remains committed to the resistance. Despite the struggles, August's story is one of resilience, community, and an unyielding hope for a free Myanmar.Reflecting on his journey and the state of the resistance, August says, “We take some time to take a rest, to take a break, and we regenerate, re-energize, and come back to support again and again. You get burned out because you are putting a lot of yourself out. It's like a vicious cycle [for us].” However, he is still filled with optimism that they will eventually preserve. “What I am proud the most is because of our work, we could wake the emotions so that we can be part of the revolution again.”

Episode #311: Paul Salopek's Out of Eden Walk is an extraordinary journey that retraces the migration paths of early Homo sapiens while examining the intersections of history, culture, and modernity. A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Salopek embarked on this transcontinental project in 2013 traveling by foot, starting from Africa's Rift Valley; it will end in Tierra del Fuego. As he walks, experiences humanity's age-old urge to move, he collects stories and makes connections with the landscapes and people he encounters, finding humanity's shared struggles and triumphs.In early 2020, Salopek waked into Myanmar, where he experienced the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the military coup that followed. Stranded in a rural village, he documented the skillful ways that local farmers adapted to isolation and scarcity; he immersed himself in their routines. Later, quarantined in a hotel in Yangon during the coup's early days, he observed the city's descent into chaos. He prepared for uncertainty by storing water and food.Salopek witnessed the courageous resistance of Myanmar's youth, who improvised weapons in their fight against the heavily armed junta, wielding trash-can lids as shields and crafting makeshift bows and arrows. Despite their bravery, the brutal crackdown highlighted the tragic power imbalance between civilians and the regime. These experiences left Salopek reflecting on the systemic media neglect of crises like Myanmar's, which he compared to underreported conflicts in Africa. He argued that a lack of strategic resources and geopolitical significance often relegates such struggles to global obscurity.Amid this neglect, Salopek praised the resilience of Myanmar's people, who, despite immense challenges, continued to resist and document their plight. “Keep Myanmar in your heart,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of sustained attention and solidarity for those enduring these crises.

In this bonus episode, we are sharing four interviews conducted by the Democratic Voice of Burma (DVB).First, Isabel Todd, the coordinator at the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar⁠ (SAC-M), discusses international advocacy on Myanmar. The SAC-M was founded by three international experts on Myanmar following the 2021 military coup. Next, a new cyber safety campaign called Stop Online Harm was launched last year in Myanmar. Its program lead, Hetty, shares how its resources and technology tools help build capacity and raise awareness, as well as develop strategies for change from global technology companies and governments. Third, Ashley South, the author of “Conflict, Complexity and Climate Change,” talks about the UN Climate Change Conference COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan from Nov. 11-22. He introduces the Kawthoolei Climate Action Plan, which was presented by two Karen leaders at COP29 and will be officially announced sometime this year.Last, Noor Azizah, the co-founder of the Rohingya Maiyafuinor Collaborative Network, shares about the launch of the Rohingya women and refugee-led organization. Their team now works on human rights and education with refugee and diaspora communities, focusing on women, peace and security. One year after the launch of RMCN, her team has visited Rohingya women and children to provide support in Indonesia and Malaysia.

Episode #310: Mike shares an in-depth look at the Burma Front during World War II, emphasizing the forgotten contributions of Merrill's Marauders, a U.S. long-range penetration unit tasked with seizing the Myitkyina airfield. The airfield was crucial in maintaining Allied supply lines, but the mission was grueling, with only 130 out of 2,750 soldiers remaining combat-fit by the end.In 1995, Mike accompanied veterans on an emotional return to Burma to revisit wartime locations, including Myitkyina. But the trip was marred by strict military oversight from the Burmese junta, who attempted to co-opt the visit for their own propaganda purposes. Nevertheless, the veterans succeeded in reconnecting with key sites and honoring their fallen comrades, and recovering the remains of U.S. servicemen missing in action, which was complicated by sensitive political barriers, but resolved through the involvement of Senator John McCain.The discussion also delves into Mike's spiritual journey with Burmese mysticism, particularly the weikza tradition, which blends meditation and supernatural beliefs. Mike describes how this practice influenced his perspective on Burma, helping him understand its complexities through both historical and spiritual lenses. He came to believe that he had been a member of the Ta'ang ethnic group in a past life, deepening his connection to Burma's cultural heritage."The thing is, see things as they really are, and then act with skillful action," Mike says, urging listeners to strip away biases and conditioned perspectives to truly understand Burma's complex realities. "Stop it! You have colored glasses on through a conditioned mind, and you're making wrong decisions about Burma and everything else, and what is Myanmar, and so we have to do is clear that conditioned mind and see things as we are and deal with things right there."