Myanmar’s announcement of compulsory conscription for all male citizens aged 18 to 35 has sparked fears of a new wave of displacement as the military junta grapples with insurgency in various provinces. The conscription is seen as a response to the armed groups, such as the Arakan Army, that have gained control over parts of Arakan, Chin, Kachin, Sagaing, and areas near the Thai-Myanmar border. Democratic opposition sources warn of a potentially uncontrollable situation as the military rulers attempt to reclaim lost territories. There have been reports of Myanmar soldiers seeking refuge in neighboring countries, including Bangladesh and India.
Myanmar’s Plans for Conscription Raise Concerns of New Exodus
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