Gregory

Suspended in 2011 following mass protests, the hydroelectric project in Kachin State is set to be revived by the military ahead of upcoming elections. For analysts and the local community, this is a political manoeuvre to strengthen ties with China, which would receive 90 per cent of the energy produced, despite potentially serious damages to the environment, local communities, and security.

At least 33 people died and more than 80 were injured in the raid on December 10. Among the victims were patients, doctors, and even newborn babies. The United Nations and international groups believe it is impossible to hold elections amid growing tensions and hostilities. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis is also taking on ever greater proportions.

Myanmar's military junta has released more than 3,000 political prisoners and dropped charges against another 5,500 people. Friends and relatives of the prisoners rejoiced yesterday, but it is also a threat to the population, who find themselves forced to vote in order to avoid arrest. This has been confirmed by the military itself: more than 700 prisoners will only be released on parole and risk returning to prison at the first sign of dissent.

The military and the pro-government BGF militia raided the Shwe Kokko complex. According to local sources, however, the BGF moved out its bosses before the raid, and thousands of workers fled after being warned. Washington and Beijing have launched parallel initiatives against the activities that finance this criminal activity, but many analysts remain sceptical; without targeting the networks linking the military, militias, and criminal groups, raids risk being merely window dressing.

The French president calls for Aung San Suu Kyi’s release. As the poll approaches, the military regime intensifies its propaganda, forcing artists and actors to support the election. The Ta'ang National Liberation Army recently signed a ceasefire brokered by China that allows the junta to take control of part of the Mandalay region. In Mogok, residents renew their protests.

After the large-scale operation at KK Park, in the Myawaddy area on the border with Thailand, around a thousand people forced to work in illegal activities fled across the border. Some local sources expressed scepticism, noting that the operation was linked to the threat of sanctions expressed at the ASEAN summit. The criminal networks remain entrenched and enjoy political cover.

To reduce dependence on China, India has initiated direct contacts with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). The Indian Ministry of Mines has engaged state-owned IREL and Midwest Advanced Materials, a private firm, to explore potential large-scale exports from Myanmar. Meanwhile, India’s government has decided to exempt mining projects from mandatory public consultations, effectively excluding local communities from vetting mining projects.

A demolition order was also served to 19 Buddhist sites in the city's "cultural zone," set to be razed to unearth ancient Ketumati. AsiaNews reports local Catholics are dismayed by the threat looming over the church dedicated to the Sacred Heart, built in the late 19th century by PIME missionaries. This is just the latest blow by the military to destroy places of worship. As many as 300 have been affected in Myanmar since the coup on 1 February 2021.

General Min Aung Hlaing has launched the “National Security and Peace Commission” and at the same time imposed martial law in dozens of municipalities, adding to threats of the death penalty for those who boycott the upcoming elections. Citizens have received messages calling for armed surrender and participation in the polls.

The Trump administration is reportedly considering a partnership with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) to access rare earth deposits in northern Myanmar and reduce US reliance on China's monopoly. However, residents fear mining’s potential environmental impact and the risk of further fuelling the civil war. Kachin activists are calling on Washington to uphold strict standards and pursue sustainable solutions to avoid repeating the mistakes of others.

According to the Myanmar Bar Association, conscription violates human rights: “Crime against humanity”. Enacted by the junta in 2024, the controversial law was followed by an aggressive campaign involving coercive practices and extortion. Revolutionary fighter from Sagaing: ‘Out of 200 soldiers, 50 are real’. Corruption in institutions has increased for economic gain.

The World Bank has forecast a 2.5% contraction in GDP, while direct damage is estimated at $11 billion. Religious groups continue to bring aid to the population, but poverty, already over 30% before the quake, is likely to increase further. The testimony of those who lost their homes and continue to live in tents.