Myanmar
Myanmar’s transition from military dictatorship to democracy has faltered under the leadership of the National League for Democracy (NLD), which came to power in relatively free elections in 2015 but has failed to uphold human rights or bring security to areas affected by armed conflict. The military retains significant influence over politics, and the country is under international pressure regarding a 2017 military operation that forced more than 700,000 members of the Rohingya minority, a mostly Muslim ethnic group, to flee to Bangladesh.
Freedom in the World — Myanmar Country Report
Myanmar’s status declined from Partly Free to Not Free in the Freedom in the World 2020 report, due to worsening conflicts between the military and ethnic minority rebel groups that reduced freedom of movement in the country.
Freedom on the Net — Myanmar Country Report
Myanmar is rated Not Free in Freedom on the Net, Freedom House's comprehensive study of internet freedom around the globe.
Our Work in Myanmar
Freedom House has been supporting civil society organizations in Myanmar since 2013. This has included supporting research and advocacy initiatives carried out by CSOs representing ethnic and other marginalized communities. Currently, Freedom House is supporting the efforts of civil society groups and networks to increase public participation in and advocacy on constitutional and legislative reform.
To learn more about Freedom House programs in Asia, visit our Asia-Pacific program page.
News & Perspectives on Myanmar
NEW REPORT: Global Battle over Internet Regulation Has Major Implications for Human Rights
Press release
September 21, 2021
Coalition Calls on Myanmar to Immediately Reinstate Internet Access for All
Advocacy letter
June 1, 2021
Myanmar: United States Must Escalate Pressure on Coup Leaders to End Violent Repression
Press release
April 21, 2021
Myanmar: Coup Leaders Must Release Detainees and Restore Civilian Rule
Press release
February 2, 2021
Report: Digital Election Interference Widespread in Countries Across the Democratic Spectrum
Press release
December 7, 2020
Joint Letter: Restore Internet Access Ahead of Elections in Myanmar
Advocacy letter
November 6, 2020
The Global Drive to Control Big Tech
China vs. Taiwan Internet Freedom, Hong Kong Doxing Law, India Media Hacked (October 2021)
China Media Bulletin
October 11, 2021