I. Introduction: A Nation in Turmoil 
Myanmar, a country of extraordinary ethnic and cultural diversity, has long been plagued by violent conflicts and systemic political oppression. Since the military coup in February 2021, repression has intensified, exacerbating long-standing ethnic tensions and fueling a massive wave of displacement. For millions of Myanmar’s citizens, forced migration has become a tragic necessity, as they flee armed conflict, persecution, and authoritarian rule. 

II. Ethnic Diversity and Division 
Myanmar is home to over 130 recognised ethnic groups, with the majority Bamar population dominating political and military institutions. Ethnic minorities—including the Rohingya, Karen, Kachin, Shan, Chin, and others—have faced decades of systemic discrimination, cultural suppression, and violence. This entrenched inequality has fuelled cycles of conflict and mass displacement. 

III. The Rohingya Crisis 
The persecution of the Rohingya Muslim minority is one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. Denied citizenship under the 1982 nationality law, the Rohingya are rendered stateless and subjected to brutal campaigns of violence, forced displacement, and mass killings by the military. Since 2017, more than 700,000 Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh, where many remain in overcrowded refugee camps. 

IV. Armed Conflicts in Ethnic States 
Ethnic armed organisations in states such as Kachin, Karen, and Shan continue to resist military dominance. These conflicts have led to widespread civilian displacement, destruction of villages, and human rights abuses. Civilians often find themselves caught between military offensives and insurgent groups, forcing many to flee for safety. 

V. Political Oppression After the Coup 
The 2021 coup dismantled Myanmar’s fragile democratic experiment, restoring full military rule under the Tatmadaw. Pro-democracy activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens who resist the junta face arbitrary arrests, torture, and executions. The climate of fear has driven many into hiding or exile abroad, where they continue to advocate for democracy. 

VI. Suppression of Civil Liberties 
Civil liberties have been virtually eradicated under military rule. Freedom of speech, press, and assembly are tightly restricted, with widespread surveillance and brutal crackdowns on protests. This suppression leaves no safe avenues for dissent, pushing citizens to seek refuge elsewhere. 

VII. Humanitarian Crisis and Displacement 
Conflict and persecution have created a massive humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced internally and across borders. Refugees often endure harsh conditions in camps, lacking access to food, healthcare, and education. The ongoing instability prevents safe return, leaving exile as their only long-term option. 

VIII. Targeting of Women and Children 
Women and children are disproportionately affected by conflict and political oppression. Reports highlight widespread sexual violence by the military as a weapon of war, while children are recruited as soldiers or displaced from their communities. These abuses deepen the humanitarian catastrophe and drive more families to flee. 

IX. Religious Persecution 
Religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians, face discrimination and targeted violence. Churches and mosques have been destroyed in conflict zones, and religious leaders harassed or detained. This erosion of religious freedom contributes to the broader climate of oppression and migration. 

X. Regional Impact of Refugee Flows 
Myanmar’s crises have had significant regional consequences. Bangladesh, Thailand, India, and Malaysia host large numbers of refugees, straining resources and complicating regional diplomacy. The international community struggles to address these challenges, as repatriation remains unsafe under current conditions. 

XI. Diaspora and Advocacy 
Myanmar’s diaspora communities play an essential role in highlighting human rights violations and supporting displaced populations. Through advocacy and international pressure, they keep the plight of ethnic minorities and political dissidents on the global agenda. 

XII. Conclusion: A Cycle of Oppression and Flight 
Ethnic conflicts and political oppression remain at the heart of Myanmar’s displacement crisis. Until the government respects human rights, resolves ethnic conflicts, and restores democratic freedoms, migration will remain the only recourse for millions. The resilience of Myanmar’s people, however, ensures that the struggle for justice and equality continues, even in exile.