The renewed fighting in Rakhine State since November has left young people like Thura Maung and Zubair struggling for survival. Thura Maung, an ethnic Rakhine, fled his home in Myebon multiple times to escape the military and AA clashes, while Zubair, an ethnic Rohingya, faced threats of conscription and violence.
With the military crackdown on Rohingya men and escalating violence in the region, both Thura Maung and Zubair had to leave Rakhine State in search of safety. Thura Maung found himself arrested by the military upon his return to the state, while Zubair sought refuge in a camp in Bangladesh.
Their stories mirror the challenges faced by many other young people in Myanmar due to the 2021 military coup. Rakhine State, already scarred by communal conflicts and violence, has become a battleground once again, with innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.
‘Stirring up communal tensions’
The escalating violence has not only displaced thousands but has also exacerbated ethnic tensions in the region. The military’s tactics, including forced conscription and attacks on civilian areas, have further destabilized the already fragile situation in Rakhine State.
Fear of conscription
Zubair’s fear of conscription and Thura Maung’s arrest highlight the dangers faced by young people in the conflict-ridden region. The military’s actions have forced many to abandon their plans and focus solely on survival.
‘Survival is my priority’
From Thura Maung’s detention to Arkar Htet’s escape from a burning town, the stories of these young individuals paint a grim picture of the impact of conflict on civilian lives in Rakhine State. As the violence escalates, the future remains uncertain for the youth caught in the crosshairs.