Ignoring Myanmar normalizes tyranny upon us
As Myanmar’s people bleed under a brutal junta and regional indifference, Jakarta’s complacency serves as a chilling warning: ignoring the normalization of tyranny abroad only paves the way for creeping militarism at home.
The junta's brutal rule in Myanmar leaves its people under siege, with Jakarta's apathy serving as a somber warning that turning a blind eye to such tyranny abroad ultimately invites domestic militarization. Protesters in the country use a powerful three-finger salute, borrowed from The Hunger Games, to assert their defiance. In a film titled Myanmar Diaries, ordinary citizens capture both the atrocities of the state and the daily struggles of survival.
Amidst the chaos, a pregnant 18-year-old struggles in silence, unable to inform her boyfriend of her pregnancy due to his name appearing on a wanted list. Her blood-stained shirt remains a poignant reminder of the harsh realities faced by women in Myanmar. The exhibition, The Coup Years, displays the impact of the regime which weaponized pandemic mobility restrictions to control the population, resulting in a surge in suicides.
The exhibition also features other films, discussions, and photo exhibitions by Myanmar photographers. Despite the world's focus on Palestine, Myanmar's plight remains under-reported, its people enduring relentless terror and killings. ASEAN's non-interference policy is seen as inadequate, potentially leading to genocide denial.
The junta continues to cling to power, while Indonesia avoids formally recognizing the military regime, leading to accusations of genocide and crimes against humanity. However, a petition has been filed to prosecute the junta leader under universal jurisdiction. The crisis has forced displaced Rohingya into overcrowded camps, facing hostility from host communities.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
