Posts Tagged ‘Junta’
World focus on Burma (28 January 2009)
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Junta summons Aung San Suu Kyi’s lawyer to Naypyitaw
Mizzima.com, India -
by Solomon New Delhi (Mizzima) – Detained pro-democracy icon Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s lawyer said he was summoned to the attorney-general’s office in Burma’s …
Junta steps up military presence in Arakan
Mizzima.com, India -
Burma’s state-run newspaper the ‘New Light of Myanmar’ on Wednesday said Prime Minister General Thein Sein on Tuesday flew to Sittwe, capital of Arakan …
‘Six million Burmese need food’
BBC News, UK -
When Cyclone Nargis wiped out Burma’s rice-bowl, the Irrawaddy Delta, last year, it was widely assumed that the country would face severe food shortages. …
Thailand to deport 78 Myanmar boat people: police
AFP -
BANGKOK (AFP) — Dozens of migrants from Myanmar who washed up in Thailand this week were convicted Wednesday of illegal entry and will be deported, …
Southeast Asia: U-Turns, downturns
ISN, Switzerland -
Without even mentioning the ongoing tragedy that is Burma/Myanmar, Southeast Asia’s democratic progress has been piecemeal and fluctuating. …
Harwich: Barrie off to help families in need
Harwich and Manningtree Standard, UK -
Barrie Samson, commanding officer of the Salvation Army in the town’s George Street, is going to Myanmar (formerly Burma) on Friday. …
Danish Minister Visits Burma
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Burma’s state-run-newspaper, The New Light of Myanmar, reported on January 22 that the two ministers held a meeting with the Myanmar Red Cross Society, …
Tensions Between Wa, Junta Continue to Rise
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
By LAWI WENG Tensions between the Burmese military and the United Wa State Army (UWSA) have been mounting since a 30-member Burmese delegation led by Lt-Gen …
NCGUB conference draws to a close
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
Bo Hla Tint said the group had brainstormed ways to achieve freedom for detained democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners, …
Chins Face Human Rights Abuses: HRW
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Burma’s military regime is perpetrating widespread abuse of the mainly-Christian Chin ethnic group, who face famine, forced labour, torture and persecution, …
Chin Christian minority victim of persecution by Myanmar dictatorship
AsiaNews.it, Italy -
Yangon (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Myanmar’s military regime is committing widespread abuses against the mainly Christian Chin ethnic group, who face forced …
Burma Jade Law amended
JCK India, India -
According to the act, all rubies and jadeite originally from Burma (Myanmar) or jewellery containing these gemstones cannot be brought into the US even if …
Burmese refugees seek new life in US army
Radio Australia, Australia -
LAMEY: Why is that a lot of the young refugees from Myanmar find the prospect of joining the military appealing? SCHERER: I think it’s an interest of young …
Chin Christian minority victim of persecution by Myanmar dictatorship
AsiaNews.it, Italy -
Human Rights Watch releases report substantiating situation. It contains 140 interviews collected over a three-year period highlighting cases of abuse, …
‘Second Chance City’ Welcomes another Leading Burmese Monk
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
“We did not demand a handover of power by the military to us or Aung San Suu Kyi. We just requested the military to treat people fairly and kindly. …
THAILAND: The Military Gets Taken Care Of
Strategy Page -
There are nearly 150000 refugees from Myanmar (Burma) in Thailand, nearly all of them from tribes that have been fighter the Burmese government for …
Indian govt. should protect Chin refugees: HRW
Hindu, India -
… force them back into Myanmar. “For too long, ethnic groups like the Chin have borne the brunt of abusive military rule in Burma,” said Elaine Pearson, …
Chin refugees in India “forced back” to Myanmar
Reuters India, India -
The New York-based rights said local authorities and community organisations in Mizoram frequently targeted Chin migrants, one of the former Burma’s many …
Thailand accused of mistreating Burmese asylum seekers
ABC Online, Australia -
But the Rohingyas are essentially stateless and have few options but to flee Burma in the hope of a better life. And as the Thais try to deal with the …
BANGLADESH: Mohammad Ismail: “Nobody wants us”
IRINnews.org, NY -
KUTUPALONG, 28 January 2009 (IRIN) – Since the early 1990s, thousands of Muslim Rohingya have fled repression in Burma/Myanmar and sought asylum in …
NLD youth members attend law seminar
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
Jan 28, 2009 (DVB)–More than 200 National League for Democracy youth members attended a talk on the Burmese legal system led by Thein Nyunt of the central …
Daw Suu’s lawyer summoned to Naypyidaw
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
Jan 28, 2009 (DVB)–The lawyer for detained democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been summoned to the attorney-general’s office in Naypyidaw, …
Persecution, devastation a ‘double whammy’ in Burma
OneNewsNow, MS -
The new guidelines in the Union of Myanmar (the official name of Burma) mean that several major churches in Rangoon will no longer be able to hold services. …
UN: Burma to Face Food Crisis
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
“Access to food remains the critical challenge for the poorest people and for vulnerable populations in remote areas of Myanmar [Burma],” said Chris Kaye, …
Artillery Battalion Shifter to Northern Arakan from Burma Proper
Narinjara News, Bangladesh -
Buthidaung: An artillery battalion was recently moved to northern Arakan from Burma proper to provide reinforcement of military forces on the western …
Junta Promises to Address Rohingya Exodus
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Maung Aye said authorities will try to prevent the Rohingya from leaving Burma for other countries. Burma’s state-run newspaper, The New Light of Myanmar, …
Human rights group calls on India to give access to Chin refugees
Earthtimes (press release), UK -
“ASEAN, the EU and the US should tell Burma and India that it is long past the time for these abuses to end,” she said, referring to the 10-member …
Burma’s ‘abused Chin need help’
BBC News, UK -
By Jonathan Head The US group Human Rights Watch has called for better protection of the Chins, one of Burma’s least known and most persecuted minorities. …
[ANN]No more silence over Rohingyas
Korea Herald, South Korea -
Asean has been largely silent, for instance, over Burma’s treatment of the protesting monks last year and it has been definitely mute over Burma’s rotten …
… the brunt of abusive military rule in Burma,” said Elaine Pearson, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch, referring to Myanmar by its former name. …
Report: Myanmar’s Chin people persecuted
The Associated Press -
“The Chin are unsafe in Burma and unprotected in India,” a report from the group said. The report said the regime in Myanmar, also known as Burma, …
Indian blockade exacerbates Chin food crisis
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
Min Thang Nga of the Zomi Human Rights Foundation said the rats were eating bamboo seeds and also attacking rice crops. “They continue to face the threat of …
Rohingya migrants go before Thai court
The Associated Press -
“They told us there are no Muslims in Burma, and they continued to beat us,” he said. Myanmar was previously called Burma. After being detained for 10 days, …
Rohingya refugees face deportation
Aljazeera.net, Qatar -
A group of Rohingya refugees who say they were beaten and burned by Myanmar soldiers as they tried to flee on boats to Thailand are facing possible …
More boat people caught off Phangnga
Bangkok Post, Thailand -
The boat people told naval officers they were heading to Malaysia from Burma. The migrants, all male, were sent to Ranong police, who would refer them to …
Officials probe lead poisoning among refugees
MSNBC -
Fort Wayne is home to thousands of expatriates from Myanmar, also known as Burma. A recent spike in cases of lead poisoning among Burmese children has led …
Thailand says Rohingya do not face persecution
Reuters -
The junta does not recognize the Rohingya as one of the former Burma’s 130-odd ethnic minorities, and those in the northwest are restricted from travel …
Burma/India: End Abuses in Chin State
Human Rights Watch (press release) -
For too long, ethnic groups like the Chin have borne the brunt of abusive military rule in Burma. It is time for this brutal treatment to stop and for the …
Voice of desperation from Mandalay
Mizzima.com, India -
In the mid 1990s the Police Academy, which is the only police training school in Upper Burma, engaged private construction companies to build several …
Burmese opposition eyes U Lin Myaing’s US visit
Mizzima.com, India -
With the Burmese junta intensifying its repression against political dissidents and activists by more arrests, doling out harsh prison terms to them, …
Burmese refugees seek new life in US
Radio Australia, Australia -
LAMEY: Why is that a lot of the young refugees from Myanmar find the prospect of joining the military appealing? SCHERER: I think it’s an interest of young …
Concerns Over Potential Drug Resistant Malaria
RedOrbit, TX -
To prevent a recurrence with artemisinin, the United States has approved a malaria monitoring center in Myanmar, formerly Burma. The Bill and Melinda Gates …
UN envoy to ‘test waters’ in Myanmar
The National, United Arab Emirates -
This visit signals the UN’s renewed efforts to engage directly the military regime in Myanmar, once known as Burma, after months of debate about how best to …
Global Currency and Gold
Gold Seek -
Myanmar (Burma) requires a special note. Cross-country money supply comparisons rank Myanmar very high. This apparent paradox arises from the discrepancy …
Burmese refugees struggle to resettle in Canada
Vancouver Sun, Canada -
Originally from Burma (also known as Myanmar), they fled the ethnic and religious suppression of the Burmese military junta in the late 1970s and 1980s. …
Thailand denies dumping refugees at sea
MarketWatch (press release) -
Most of the refugees, including 78 people who washed up in a boat Tuesday, are from Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, and are fleeing persecution from the …
reported in refugees
WTHI, IN -
Fort Wayne is home to thousands of refugees from Myanmar, also known as Burma. A recent spike in cases of lead poisoning among Burmese children has led …
Is Burma’s former Prime Minister Khin Nyunt to be freed soon?
Mizzima
| by Salai Pi Pi |
| Monday, 26 January 2009 22:20 |
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New Delhi (Mizzima) – Rumours that Burma’s military junta will soon free its detained officers above the rank of Colonel to involve them in the ensuing election, is making the rounds in military circles in Burma, a source in the military establishment said.
The source said the junta is planning to release former Military Intelligence (MI) officers of ranks above Colonel, who were arrested, charged and detained along with the MI chief and former Prime Minister Khin Nyunt.
“Some family members of former MI officials are expecting their release,” the source told Mizzima.
The source added that the release is likely to include the former MI chief Khin Nyunt, who is currently under house arrest.
According to the source, who declined to be named, General Khin Nyunt, who was dismissed and arrested on charges of corruption in 2004, will be used to contest the election along with the recently release Sandar Win, daughter of former military dictator General Ne Win.
Khin Nyunt was tried in a Special Tribunal inside Insein prison in Rangoon and was sentenced to 44 years on corruption charges in 2005. However, it is widely believed that he is being put under house arrest instead of being detained in prison.
While Mizzima was unable to make an independent verification of the rumours, sources said it is spreading like wild fire in military circles in Rangoon.
A Thailand based Burmese military expert Htay Aung said, while he is unaware of the rumours, he does not rule out the possibility of the release of Khin Nyunt as the ruling junta does not act in keeping with the law.
“Since the law of the country is in the hands of regime, they can do whatever they want to. Sometimes speculations could also be true,” Htay Aung said.
In Burma, whose military rulers keep a tight hold over freedom of expression and information flow, rumours are common, and in many cases, tends to bear a high percentage of truth.
Htay Aung said he has heard that the regime had occasionally secretly allowed the former Intelligence Chief Khin Nyunt to go out despite being kept under house arrest.
“I have heard that the regime often allowed him [Khin Nyunt] to meet some guests,” Htay Aung added.
Link to 2010 election
According to the source, rumours are spreading that the military regime is convincing General Khin Nyunt and the recently freed Sanda Win, daughter of the former dictator General Ne Win, to form a political party to contest in the ensuing 2010 elections.
Khin Nyunt, after he took over as Prime Minister in 2003, announced the seven-step road map to democracy that the present regime is still implementing.
According to the roadmap, a general election is in slated for 2010.
Htay Aung, however, dismissed speculations on Sanda Win and Khin Nyunt teaming up to form a political party to contest the elections, saying, “The regime will not allow their enemy to take over power.”
According to him, the Generals in power including Snr. Gen Than Shwe consider Khin Nyunt dangerous for the military rulers, and does not prefer having him on their side.
He, however, said, if Khin Nyunt is to be freed, the generals might be thinking of using him to negotiate with cease-fire groups, whom Khin Nyuint, during his tenure as the MI chief, convinced to stop fighting.
“Compared to the leading generals of the regime, he [Khin Nyunt] has strong influence over the cease-fire groups,” said Htay Aung. “So they might want to reuse him to handle them [cease-fire groups].”
Sources close to the ceasefire groups said, the Burmese military regime has recently stepped up pressure on cease-fire groups to disarm and form political parties to contest the elections.
However, major ceasefire groups such as the Kachin Independent Organization (KIO) and United Wa State Army (UWSA) said they will not surrender their arms though they do not oppose the junta’s planned elections.
Possible Fresh crackdown
The source, further said, while rumours of the possibilities of Khin Nyunt being freed are spreading, military supremo Snr. Gen Than Shwe is still nervous about the possibilities of Khin Nyunt’s followers remaining in the army.
Than Shwe’s fresh suspicions about Khin Nyunt followers, might lead to another brutal operation within the military in the form of a crackdown on Khin Nyunt’s associates, the source added.
World focus on Burma (25 January 2009)
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A New US Strategy for Burma
Mizzima.com, India -
In September 2007, I wrote in Mizzima News that the UN approach had failed to secure the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other political prisoners. …
Dr. Sein Win re-elected PM of government in exile
Mizzima.com, India -
Mathematics Professor Dr. Sein Win (64) is the cousin brother of detained Nobel peace laureate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and he received his doctoral degree from …
Thai government faced with new abuse charges
InTheNews.co.uk, UK -
Thailand’s government has come under criticism again for its alleged mistreatment of Rohingya refugees fleeing Myanmar. The south-east Asian country has …
Tom Lantos JADE Act Guidelines Released
IDEX Online, Israel -
The Act specifies that all rubies and jadeite originally from Burma (Myanmar) or jewelry containing these gemstones cannot enter the US even if they had …
Zachary Michaelson Seeks to Raise Awareness on Burma
PR-CANADA.net (press release), Montenegro -
… has announced his intention to launch an awareness campaign to further expose the plight of religious and ethnic minority groups in Burma (Myanmar). …
Rights groups demand fair treatment for migrant workers in Thailand
Mizzima.com, India -
We must know that the root cause of this problem is the Burmese junta. As long as the junta rules Burma, these migrant workers will flow to Thailand. …
Thais deny boat people abuse claims
Aljazeera.net, Qatar -
The allegations were made as Thailand offered to host a regional conference aimed at stemming the flow of illegal immigrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh. …
FEATURE: Descendents of ‘Orphan Army’ dream of home
Taipei Times, Taiwan -
… thousands of KMT soldiers who had crossed the border to Thailand and Burma (now Myanmar) were isolated there, eventually becoming known as the “Orphan …
REFUGEES STRUGGLE: Economic situation makes life tougher for newcomers
High Point Enterprise (subscription), NC -
The refugees came from Myanmar (Burma), Iraq, Iran, Cuba, Vietnam, Bhutan, Somalia, Sudan and Burundi, and though currently about 118 refugees are employed, …
‘Women in Pakistan well represented politically’
Daily Times, Pakistan -
Sherry also mentioned Burmese political leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who continued her struggle for democracy and human rights in her country. …
Burma Clamps Down on Christians
Journal Chrétien, France -
A military dictatorship has ruled Burma since 1962. Following the takeover, the government renamed Burma as the Union of Myanmar and the capital city as …
Learn from Rangoon, but do not involve it
Nation Multimedia, Thailand -
Whatever the answer, the red-shirts have mocked Thailand, Burma and themselves at the same time. The pro-Thaksin group was effectively telling the world …
Scientist puts mother tongue on academia threshold
Standard, Kenya -
Then, his father, Mbugwa Mwatha, who had served in the King’s African Rifles and fought in World War II in Burma (now Myanmar) and Ceylon (Sri Lanka), …
World focus on Burma (24 August 2009)
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BBC slammed for refusing to air Gaza appeal
The Associated Press -
The appeals have raised millions of pounds (dollars) for victims of war and natural disaster in Congo, Myanmar and elsewhere. BBC director-general Mark …
Thailand and Myanmar’s army leaders compared
Global Voices Online, MA -
by Mong Palatino Rule of Lords insists that Thailand’s army leaders are not better than Burma’s. As Awzar Thi of AHRC says, the Thai military is similar in …
Women in Pakistan well represented politically: Sherry Rehman
Associated Press of Pakistan, Pakistan -
Similarly, the Minister said, Burmese woman political leader Aung San Suu Kyi continues her struggle for democracy and human rights for her country in an …
Indonesia denies asylum to Rohingya survivors
AsiaNews.it, Italy -
The odyssey of hundreds of people who fled from Myanmar and landed in Thailand, where the army loaded them onto boats without motors and towed them onto the …
Gambari to visit Myanmar for the seventh time
Merinews, India -
… Myanmar military junta see reason and usher in political reconciliation at the earliest, the United Nations special envoy to Burma Ibrahim Gambari is …
Bush should get more credit for fighting terror
Ithaca Journal, NY -
… and action except from a few dictatorial rulers such as those of North Korea, Iran, China, Russia, Burma (Myanmar), Zimbabwe and a few Arab states. …
DRC: ICC’s First Trial Focuses on Child Soldiers
Human Rights Tribune, Switzerland -
Children are currently recruited and used in armed conflict in at least 15 countries and territories: Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Central African Republic …
UN envoy to visit Myanmar
International Herald Tribune, France -
YANGON: UN special envoy Ibrahim Gambari will visit military-ruled Myanmar next week to try to revive negotiations between the junta and detained opposition …
Robbie Burns at 250
Globe and Mail, Canada -
Agitating for democracy in Scotland in the 1790s was as popular with the authorities as it is today in Burma. In an earlier draft of the poem, …
Burma launches new crackdown on religious groups
Religious Intelligence Ltd, UK -
The crackdown on Christians comes as the government seeks to consolidate its power in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) …
Republican Senators resort to extortion on Holder nomination
Northwest Progressive Institute Official Blog, WA -
If the rule of law were not important, what would separate our nation from countries like Myanmar (Burma) or North Korea? If Eric Holder, or any other Obama …
Thailand calls conference on refugees
The Associated Press -
Foreign Ministry officials met envoys from India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Myanmar to discuss the exodus of refugees from camps in the …
Burma’s junta does not give honor to whom honor is due
Ashin Mettacara, Sri Lanka -
U Thant was born in Pantanaw, Burma (Myanmar) on 22 January 1909. He was the first Asian Burmese diplomat and the third Secretary-General of the United …
Boat people scandal hits Thai army
Aljazeera.net, Qatar -
Abhisit Vejjajiva, the Thai prime minister, who has repeatedly stated a commitment to human rights and the rule of law, said on Thursday there were “quite a …
China says 19 nationals freed from Myanmar kidnap
MSNBC - 18 hours ago
China is one of the few nations that stands by the military junta running Myanmar, also called by its former name, Burma. But Chinese officials have also …
US Treasury Blocks Assets of 25 Pursuant to Burmese JADE Act
Diamonds.net, NY -
The Act forbids import of gemstones from Myanmar, formerly called Burma, to the US, either through direct means or through third-party countries. 1. …
Burma Tightens Restrictions on Christian Worship
Christian Freedom International, MI -
… Christian relief efforts that filtered into the country in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, a hurricane that destroyed much of the region in May 2008. …
Imprisoned monk goes on hunger strike in Myanmar
Taipei Times, Taiwan -
Myanmar’s military rulers have kept 63-year-old Nobel Peace Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi under house arrest in Yangon for most of the past 19 years. …
Zachary Michaelson Seeks to Raise Awareness on Burma
WebWire (press release), GA -
… has announced his intention to launch an awareness campaign to further expose the plight of religious and ethnic minority groups in Burma (Myanmar). …
Indonesia to expel Rohingya boatpeople held at navy base
South China Morning Post (subscription), Hong Kong -
Indonesia will deny political asylum to 193 migrants from Myanmar and Bangladesh who are being held at a navy base after they were found stranded off the …
Thai Foreign Ministry invites Ambassadors from concerned countries …
ISRIA (subscription), DC -
… and Malaysia as well as the Charge d’affaires of Myanmar to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for consultations on the issue of Rohingya illegal migrants. …
Another Loss for Burmese Activist’s Family
自由亚洲电视, Washington DC -
BANGKOK—The 23-year-old wife of a Burmese activist involved in helping victims of Tropical Cyclone Nargis has suffered a second-trimester miscarriage in …
55 Films and 31 Filmmakers Slated for 2009 Boulder International …
PR Newswire (press release), NY -
… with Burmese Princess Inge Sargent, author of Twilight over Burma and a recipient of the United Nations Association International Human Rights Award. …
Thailand Asks Neighbors to Cooperate on Illegal Immigration
Voice of America -
Officials from Thailand’s foreign ministry met Friday with ambassadors from Burma, India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Malaysia. …
Gambari’s return fails to inspire Burmese Opposition
Mizzima.com, India -
by Mungpi New Delhi (Mizzima) – Burma’s main opposition party – the National League for Democracy – said it does not expect United Nations special envoy …
Will Obama be ready for radical humanitarian intervention in Burma?
Asian Tribune, Thailand -
… undo the Bush’s era human rights violations, and restore America’s lost moral posture, befitted for a democratic superpower. Meanwhile, Burma has been …
Burma VJ turns Sundance’s eye toward government protests
Paste Magazine, GA -
Myanmar, often referred to as Burma, has been under military control since 1962. The film offers a firsthand account of the protests in the capital city of …
Thailand’s new boat people
GlobalPost -
There are about 1 million Rohingya, with roughly 800000 living along Burma’s coast and another 200000 or so in refugee camps across the Bangladeshi border. …
Rohingya Boat People Not to Get Asylum Here
Jakarta Globe, Indonesia -
One of the boat people, Imam Husen, told the Reuters news agency from his hospital bed that he and about 580 other people had set off from Mundu in Burma in …
The bottom of a burst bubble: depravity and the economic turndown
Gauntlet, Canada -
Within the last months of 2008 and stretching into the New Year, hundreds of economic refugees fleeing from Myanmar and Bangladesh have reportedly reached …
Sister Says Jailed Burmese Monk on Hunger Strike
Voice of America -
By VOA News The sister of a Buddhist monk imprisoned by Burma’s military rulers for pro-democracy activities says her brother is on a hunger strike. …
FDA crackdown dramatically cuts availability of Asian food …
Inside Bay Area, CA -
Among them was Zin Nwe, an ethnic Chinese who recently graduated from medical school in her native Burma, also known as Myanmar. …
My portfolio: Ryan Libre
BBC News, UK -
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“The KIO encourages free access to international media, including Human Rights Watch reports.” “The 1994 ceasefire between the KIA and the Burmese military …
Will Obama be able to change things in Burma?
เดอะ เนชั่น, Thailand -
One wonders whether the overtures by the Burmese junta could mean a fresh start for reconciliation and the beginning of a win-win situation. …
World focus on Burma (23 January 2009)
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Burmese monks and activists mistreated and tortured
AsiaNews.it, Italy -
Yangon (AsiaNews/Agencies) – Myanmar’s military junta is making political prisoners live in unhealthy living conditions, depriving them of adequate food and …
Thailand offers to host regional meeting on Rohingyas
เดอะ เนชั่น, Thailand -
… Burma, India, Indonesia and Malaysia. The ministry invited the ambassadors to meet after pres¬sure on the government over the Navy’s alleged humanrights …
You wouldn’t read about it
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia -
On Wednesday, this newspaper reported that the Thai army had – on two separate occasions – pushed about 1000 Burmese boat people back into international …
Rights group: Thais abandoned migrants at sea
The Associated Press -
Thousands of Bangladeshis and Rohingyas — members of a stateless, Muslim ethnic group that fled to Bangladesh to escape persecution in Myanmar — leave …
Thailand proposes regional workshop on Rohingya migrants
Thai News Agency MCOT, Thailand -
… Indonesia, India and the charge d’affaires of Myanmar on the problem of illegal Rohingya migrants fleeing Myanmar by boat in large numbers recently. …
Than Shwe congratulates Obama
Mizzima.com, India -
Burma’s official newspaper New Light of Myanmar on Friday reported in its front page that Senior General Than Shwe “has sent a message of congratulations to …
Thailand says 126 Rohingya boat people ‘escorted’ to sea already
Earthtimes (press release), UK -
On Tuesday the UNHCR requested access to 126 Rohingyas, members of a Muslim minority group from the North Arakan State in Myanmar, and said they should be …
Child Labor Widespread in Delta
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Myo Min lost his mother when Cyclone Nargis slashed through southwestern Burma on May 2-3. He now lives with his brother and works full-time aboard a …
No Great Expectations
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
The former political prisoner, who has been a critic of Burma’s authoritarian rulers since the socialist era of late dictator Ne Win, cautioned against …
On the Road to Labutta
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
One foreigner was wearing Burmese clothes and pretending to be local, but he was easily identified and could not speak Burmese, so he was taken off the bus …
Migrant Crackdown Won’t Solve Problem: Rights Groups
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Adisorn Kerdmongkol, a team organizer with the Migrant Working Group (MWG) based in Bangkok, said, “The root cause of the problem for illegal Burmese …
Weekly Business Roundup (January 23, 2009)
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
… which potentially offer a new buyer for surplus Burmese bean crops in return for much-needed agricultural fertilizer. The Myanmar Federation of Chambers …
Junta collects details from parties to contest 2010 election
Mizzima.com, India -
Ye Tun, a member of ’88 Generation Students and Youth (Union of Burma)’, a junta-backed group, which had announced that it will contest the 2010 elections, …
UN envoy Gambari to revisit Burma soon
Mizzima.com, India -
But during his last visit in August 2008, he failed to meet the Burmese junta supremo Snr. Gen Than Shwe while detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi …
Kolkata celebrates Netaji’s birth anniversary
Thaindian.com, Thailand -
Later, Gandhi released a new paperback edition of Netaji’s collected works titled “In Burma Prisons”. The chief guest at the function was Italian ambassador …
Netaji’s rare letters to be on display
Express Buzz, India -
These and several other rare letters written by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose to his father Janakinath Bose from prison cells in India and Myanmar (then Burma) …
‘Superman’ on a crusade to find justice
Metro, UK -
… Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former US President Jimmy Carter, former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and Burmese human rights activist Aung San Suu Kyi, …
UN envoy to test waters in Burma’s political quagmire
Mizzima.com, India -
by Larry Jagan Bangkok (Mizzima) – The United Nation’s special envoy, Ibrahim Gambari will make another visit to Burma at the end of the month on what may …
UN seeks access to Burmese boat people
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia -
The United Nations is concerned over the plight of 174 Burmese boat people in Indonesian custody who were allegedly left to die at sea by the Thai military. …
Dala NLD youth member jailed
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway
Tun Lwin said Htet Soe Linn’s case was another example of the dysfunctional justice system in Burma. “This is a very ugly incident and discredits the image …
UDD asks Asean members to skip summit
Bangkok Post, Thailand -
More than 100 supporters of United Front of Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) handed letters to the Burma and Singapore embassies in Bangkok on Friday, …
Monk Gambira began to refuse food ten days ago, said Bo Kyi of the Thailand-based Assistance Association for Political Prisoners-Burma. …
Go! Arts Highlights: Jan. 23-29
Times Herald-Record, NY -
… about Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, a political figure who was placed under house arrest in Burma almost two decades ago because of her political activism. …
DRC: ICC’s First Trial Focuses on Child Soldiers
منظمة هيومان رايتس ووتش – حقوق الانسان -
Children are currently recruited and used in armed conflict in at least 15 countries and territories: Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Central African Republic …
2008 one of worst years for natural disasters this decade
CBC.ca, Canada -
The UN estimates that nearly 84000 people died and 54000 went missing after Cyclone Nargis came crashing into Burma, also known as Myanmar, last May 3. …
2008 one of worst years for natural disasters this decade
CBC.ca, Canada -
The UN estimates that nearly 84000 people died and 54000 went missing after Cyclone Nargis came crashing into Burma, also known as Myanmar, last May 3. …
Activists mark U Thant’s centenary birthday
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
“We mark the event because the military junta has been trying to wipe out the memory of the Burmese and world leader U Thant from the consciousness of the …
Ethnic Minorities Hold the Key to Burma’s Future
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
The Burmese junta has accepted this situation for at least three reasons. First, the ceasefire accords have allowed the military to avoid multiple enemy …
‘Partial war’ looming between China, India?
WND.com, OR -
The Burma Road, known to have helped supply China during World War II, passes through the region. Burma, or Myanmar, borders on the East. …
Myanmar junta congratulates Obama: state media
Emirates Business 24/7, United Arab Emirates -
Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar has been ruled by the military since 1962, and is under economic sanctions from the United States and Europe over rights …
Indonesia refuses Rohingya asylum
Aljazeera.net, Qatar -
But according to Human Rights Watch, more than 250000 Rohingyas fled Myanmar to Bangladesh in 1992 amid a campaign of persecution and what many have …
Judgment for Mugabe
Boston Globe, United States -
At present, comparable crimes are being committed by the military junta in Burma and the genocidal regime in Sudan. The best hope to save lives in the …
Burma’s government-in-exile mulls future
Radio Australia, Australia -
Many belonged to Nobel laureate and detained Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy, the NLD. Speaker: Dr. Sein Winn, Burma’s prime …
China says 18 nationals freed from Myanmar kidnap
Reuters India, India -
China is one of the few nations that stands by the military junta running Myanmar, also called by its former name Burma. But Chinese officials have also …
Myanmar: UN Envoy To Visit Myanmar At Month’s End, Says Diplomat
Sin Chew Jit Poh, Malaysia -
YANGON, MYANMAR: The special United Nations envoy tasked with promoting political reconciliation in Myanmar will visit the military-ruled country at the end …
Malaysia Crackdown
Buzzle, CA -
In Burma, the Rohingya are considered stateless with few rights. Their circumstances have prompted many to seek a better life in prosperous Muslim Malaysia. …
Burmese refugees fearful of new life in USA
USA Today -
Those who have escaped from Burma, also known as Myanmar, are in many respects a special case: They have fled a military regime that the Bush administration …
Report Says Deaths, Economic Losses Jump in 2008
Voice of America -
The Center for Research on Epidemiology of Disasters reports 2008 was one of the deadliest years on record, with two disasters, Cyclone Nargis in Burma and …
Can the ILO Be Saved from Itself?
Heritage.org, DC -
For example: In Burma, the ILO is the sole UN agency that plays a useful role on the ground. It has been directly responsible for enabling victims of forced …
A Thai Democrat?
Wall Street Journal -
It’s an increasingly important strategic ally for the West as China expands its influence and Burma’s generals drive that country deeper into chaos. …
Interview: Anders Østergaard and Joshua on “Burma VJ”
IFC -
Of course, we have the NLD, which was the official opposition organization spearheaded by Aung San Suu Kyi, but they were out of the game for a good while …
Life in a fishing village behind Myanmar’s walls
Worldfocus, NY -
The SPDC unilaterally changed the name in 1989 from Burma to Myanmar without consulting its citizens. Most opposition groups use Burma, …
PM PROPOSES COASTAL SECURITY UNIT TO PREVENT ILLEGAL MIGRATION
Pattaya Daily News, Thailand -
“This follows our expression of strong concern to the government last week over allegations that large groups of Rohingya boat people from Myanmar were …
World focus on Burma (22 January 2009)
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Opposition groups expect no change from Obama
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
“We are sure that the basic policy of the United States to support human rights and democracy in Burma will remain the same,” he said. …
Centennial birthday of Myanmar’s former UN chief marked – Summary
Earthtimes (press release), UK -
U Thant, one of the few Burmese to reach international stature, remains a controversial figure in military-controlled Myanmar, also known as Burma. …
PM vows crackdown on illegal immigrants
Bangkok Post, Thailand -
Survivors and a human rights group have accused the army and navy of detaining and beating up to 1000 members of the Rohingya minority from Burma late last …
Burma a workers’ dystopia
Toronto Star, Canada -
The government of Burma is known by an Orwellian antonym – the “State Peace and Development Council,” or SPDC. In truth, Burma, also known as Myanmar, …
The ties that bind Thailand’s Burma policy
United Press International, Asia, Hong Kong -
… slipped through the back door and into the prime minister’s seat in Thailand late last year, exiled democracy advocates from Burma welcomed him. …
Roundtable: A new government in exile?
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the majority of MPs are still there. We have to respect the desire of the people inside the country. We cannot accept a unilateral …
Centennial birthday of Myanmar’s former UN chief marked – Summary
Earthtimes (press release), UK -
U Thant, one of the few Burmese to reach international stature, remains a controversial figure in military-controlled Myanmar, also known as Burma. …
Detained female activist suffers miscarriage in prison
Mizzima.com, India -
Tun Tun, husband of Kathy Aung and a member of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (ABFSU), who is on the run from authorities, told Mizzima from his …
Gambira transferred to Hkamti prison: Prison official
Mizzima.com, India -
by Ko Wild Chiang Mai (Mizzima) – Detained veteran Monk Gambira, who was allegedly staging a hunger strike in Mandalay prison, has been transferred to the …
Can’t interfere in Lankan affairs: Dalai Lama
Express Buzz, India -
Though I am a Buddhist leader, I am not allowed to enter countries like Sri Lanka and Burma, where there is a large number of Buddhist believers,’’ he said …
Hot Docs: Global Optimism Over President Obama; Women and Cute Babies
U.S. News & World Report, DC -
The eight countries that received the survey’s lowest rankings were North Korea, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Libya, Sudan, Burma, Equatorial Guinea, …
AIDS Patients Forced to Leave Monastery
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
The patients, including two young children, were from various parts of Burma and were too poor to go to a hospital, the source said. …
UN Seeks Interviews with Rohingyas Held by Thailand
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Since the early 1990s, a rising number of Rohingya refugees have taken to boats, many not sea worthy, and fled Burma and Bangladesh for political and …
Men found floating in ice box taken for questioning by Australian …
Visa Bureau, UK -
A helicopter rescued the Myanmar men on Saturday and taken to a hospital on Thursday Island. The pair said they were forced to work aboard a Thai fishing …
Men found floating in ice box taken for questioning by Australian …
Visa Bureau, UK -
A helicopter rescued the Myanmar men on Saturday and taken to a hospital on Thursday Island. The pair said they were forced to work aboard a Thai fishing …
PM vows crackdown on illegal immigrants
Bangkok Post, Thailand -
Survivors and a human rights group have accused the army and navy of detaining and beating up to 1000 members of the Rohingya minority from Burma late last …
U Gambira transferred to Khandee prison
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
The All Burmese Monks’ Alliance leader was reported to have been staging a hunger strike in Mandalay prison last week. Mandalay prison officials told the …
The ties that bind Thailand’s Burma policy
United Press International, Asia, Hong Kong -
… slipped through the back door and into the prime minister’s seat in Thailand late last year, exiled democracy advocates from Burma welcomed him. …
Democracy Activist Released After 5-Month Interrogation
Narinjara News, Bangladesh -
“He was hiding in unknown locations for many months after the Saffron Revolution due to fear of arrest by the Burmese military authority. …
Burmese Monk Suffering After UNHCR Rejection
Narinjara News, Bangladesh -
… refugees while many other monks and citizens who were victims of the junta had their claims rejected. Many Burmese refugees believe that such decisions …
Pair detained over Burma kidnap scandal
The Age, Australia -
Police in north China have detained two people allegedly linked to the Burma-based kidnapping of at least 50 teenagers whose parents were sent ransom …
Thailand Refuses UN Access To Rohingya Refugees
RTT News, NY -
(RTTNews) – Thailand’s Prime Minister Wednesday refused to grant UN experts access to 126 boat people from Myanmar, following accusations that the Thai …
Obama era challenges SA to change its foreign tune
Business Day, South Africa -
Apart from blocking UN discussions about human rights in Zimbabwe, we voted against imposing sanctions on Burma’s military junta and Iran, for violating …
Thai army admits funding round-up of refugees
The Malaysian Insider, Malaysia -
BANGKOK, Jan 22 – A colonel in the Thai army has confirmed its involvement in a programme to round up boatpeople from Myanmar and Bangladesh and send them …
BURMA: AUTHORITIES CLAMP DOWN ON CHRISTIANS
Compass Direct News, CA -
A military dictatorship has ruled Burma since 1962. Following the takeover, the government renamed Burma as the Union of Myanmar and the capital city as …
SA now a ‘rogue democracy’
The Times, South Africa -
Apart from blocking UN discussions about human rights in Zimbabwe, we voted against imposing sanctions on Burma’s rights-delinquent military junta, …
Burma, Myanmar: Sri Lanka-base Burmese Media Website Attacked
Ashin Mettacara, Sri Lanka -
They are very often hacking the Myanmar news websites because they are scared of monks and medias since last year September. The Indian hackers were also …
A New Government for Burma
Wall Street Journal -
… clusters of Burmese, as well as foreign experts in political, economic, and other fields, to work on a blueprint for a transition to democracy in Burma. …
Is China’s influence on Burmese generals eroding?
Mizzima
by Mungpi
Tuesday, 20 January 2009 20:57
New Delhi (Mizzima) – Though it may seem to many, including the international community, that China, Burma’s strongest ally, is the only country that can influence the rogue military rulers of Burma, an analyst said, China is also currently facing a tough situation as the Burmese generals are stupid and stubborn and do not do what they are asked to by their elder brother – China.
Mya Maung a long time Sino-Burmese analyst based along the two countries’ border in Ruili, during an interview with Mizzima said China is currently in a tight spot as the Burmese regime is stubbornly refusing to follow its suggestions.
Surprisingly, he said, China’s suggestions to Burmese military rulers include implementing an inclusive political dialogue with opposition groups, as well as to reconsider the constitution, which the junta had claimed was approved during a referendum in May.
“But the problem is China has its own national interests to think of at and they are not in a position to put too much pressures on the junta,” Mya Maung said.
According to him, among many economic ventures that China seeks in Burma, connecting a gas pipeline from Burma’s western Arakan state to Yunnan province and using the Sittwe port as a sea gateway, are crucial.
“China may seem to be endorsing the junta’s roadmap, but it is more concerned that there is some kind of stability in the country,” Mya Maung said.
He said the Chinese government sees that the United Nations’ initiative is ideal for Burma’s political solution as it has strongly opposed the Western nations’ way of pressuring the junta with economic sanctions.
China believes in engagement but would like a strong and stable government that would be accountable, Mya Maung said.
Currently, the United States and European Union has imposed economic sanctions on Burma’s military rulers.
Complimenting Mya Maung’s analysis, a secret document leaked to Mizzima reveals that China’s ambassador to Burma Mr. Juan Mu urged the Burmese Foreign Minister, during one of their meetings in early last year, to cooperate with the UN special envoy Ibrahim Gambari and follow his suggestions on political reforms.
The meetings minutes between Burmese Foreign Minister Nyan Win and Ambassador Juan Mu, reveals that the Chinese ambassador had urged Nyan Win to allow Gambari to play a greater role by allowing him a tripartite meeting with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and liaison minister Aung Kyi, and to allow him multiple-entry Visa to Burma, and to open a liaison office in Rangoon.
Juan Mu also said, China is endorsing the United Nations initiative and would be ready to provide necessary support to the special envoy Ibrahim Gambari.
But Nyan Win, yet another puppet Foreign Minister of the Junta’s paramount leader Senior General Than Shwe, refused the request saying a tripartite meeting between Gambari, Aung Kyi and Aung San Suu Kyi is impossible but assured meetings with junior junta officials.
Nyan Win, during the conversation with Juan Mu, also said Gambari cannot be given multiple entry Visa to Burma and the regime could not allow him to have a liaison office in Rangoon.
Juan Mu, representing the voice of China, however, told Nyan Win that China fully understood Burma’s situation and would use its influence to convince the international community particularly the diplomatic community in Rangoon on the junta’s planned roadmap.
Mya Maung said, though China wants to see a stable Burma, in recent days it has failed to influence the junta, led by Senior General Than Shwe, in many areas including its response to the deadly Cyclone Nargis.
“These are signs that China, though it may seem to be the only country with a lot of influence on Burma’s military rulers, are having a tough time with the generals, as they are forced to consider their interest,” Mya Maung concludes.
http://www.mizzima.com/news/regional/1576-is-chinas-influence-on-burmese-generals-eroding.html
World focus on Burma (20 January 2009)
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Ask yourself: What can I do?
San Antonio Express, TX -
We could have been the Burmese dissident languishing in jail; the child soldier forced to take up arms in Uganda or Sri Lanka; the man dying of AIDS in …
Up Torres Strait without a paddle
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia -
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‘We were in icebox 25 days’
The Age, Australia -
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Third Dala township NLD member arrested
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
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Mixed Reactions to Obama in Southeast Asia
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
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Memories Keep Hope Alive in Insein Prison
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
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Opposition Leaders Expect Obama to Stick to Burma Policy
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
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European Commission provides 40.5 million euros in aid to Myanmar
Monsters and Critics.com -
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A Message to President Obama
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
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Fishermen saved off Australia after 25 days at sea
The Associated Press -
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Looking back, looking ahead: Press Freedom in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asian Press Alliance, Thailand -
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Burma 101 for Obama; Three quarters rights in military …
Mizzima.com, India -
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King’s Anti-Imperialism and the Challenge for Obama
Joy Online, Ghana -
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Tribute to Black’s civil rights legacy is due
San Antonio Express, TX -
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‘So far, so bad,’ But Nothing is Permanent
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
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International Herald Tribune, France -
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Reuters UK, UK -
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Pres. Bush Uses Authority to Alter Burmese JADE Act
Diamonds.net, NY - 1 hour ago
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Asia’s Economic Freedom Needs to Improve
PitchEngine (press release), WY -
Meanwhile, Bhutan, Pakistan, the Philippines, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, China, Nepal, Vietnam, Laos, Bangladesh and Burma were ranked amongst …
Burmese fishermen drift for 25 days in icebox
Telegraph.co.uk, United Kingdom -
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Detained Chinese Christian Activist In Life Danger
BosNewsLife, Hungary -
At some point during his travels Peng was lured into neighboring Burma, also known as Myanmar, where he was kidnapped at gunpoint by eight Chinese special …
Sundance Dispatch: Down the Rat Hole of Reality
New York Times, United States -
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Men Rescued After Drifting at Sea for 25 Days in Icebox
FOXNews -
… they will confirm their identities within the next few days. The rest of the ship’s crew — 11 other Burmese men and seven Thai men — have not been found.
Zachary Michaelson Seeks to Raise Awareness of Burma
PRLog.Org (press release), Romania -
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Shipwreck victims spend 25 days drifting in an icebox
Gadling, CA -
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Clashes between SSA (South) and Burmese Army
Mizzima.com, India -
SSA(S) forces clashed with the junta’s IB 64 and LIB 513 between January 12 and 15 in Panglong, Hopone, Mongkeung townships in Taungyi District, Shan State. …
Suu Kyi honored with ‘Trumpet of Conscience’ award
Mizzima.com, India -
by Solomon New Delhi (Mizzima) – Burmese pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi was on Sunday named winner of the ‘Trumpet of Conscience’ award for …
More checkpoints in Rangoon
Mizzima.com, India -
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World focus on Burma (16 January 2008)
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Indian Vice President to visit Burma to strengthen bilateral relations
Mizzima.com, India -
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The Doctor in Dubia: dubious indeed
guardian.co.uk, UK -
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Next battle against Karen rebels soon
Mizzima.com, India -
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Kelly Rutherford, Blake Lively, Johnny Knoxville
International Herald Tribune, France -
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Sundance in 60 Seconds: Thursday, January 15, 2009
Cinematical, CA -
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Freezing Temperatures Hit Remote Areas of Burma
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
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Burmese migrant workers evicted from campsite
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
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Through the Director’s Lens
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
He was previously the chairman of the Myanmar Film Association. Question: Which movie do you think will win a Burmese academy award this year and who are …
Will Obama forgive Britain for his grandfather’s torture?
This is London, UK -
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North Korean national dies in Meikhtila
Democratic Voice of Burma, Norway -
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Bush Slaps Sanctions on More Junta Cronies
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
Zaw Zaw is the managing director of the Max Myanmar Group of Companies, a Burmese entity with interests in the gem, timber, construction and tourism …
Score more than one for first lady
Sauk Valley Newspapers, IL -
… had spent many months relentlessly calling for the overthrow of the repressive Burmese government – ever since she had read a book by Aung San Suu Kyi, …
Weekly Business Roundup (January 16, 2009)
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
The Burma Campaign UK which lobbies to stop companies doing business with the Burmese junta this week urged the London government to investigate all British …
Burmese weblog wins “Best Asia Blog” award for 2008
Mizzima.com, India -
by Mizzima News New Delhi (Mizzima) – The weblog of venerable Burmese Buddhist monk, Ashin Mettacara, has bagged the “Best Asia Blog” award for 2008. …
Burmese Junta Destroying Arakanese Businesses, Says Shrimp Farmer
Narinjara News, Bangladesh -
Rathidaung: The Burmese military government has destroyed Arakanese businesses with many tactics aiming to undeveloped the state of Arakan, said a shrimp …
Bangladesh PM Wants to Settle Maritime Boundary Dispute
Narinjara News, Bangladesh -
… their neighboring countries Burma and India, a Bangladesh official said. “She said that the government would discuss the issue with India and Myanmar to …
US Treasury freezes assets of more ‘Junta Cronies’
Mizzima.com, India -
… and Myanmar Ivanhoe Copper, owner of the country’s largest copper mine. OFAC has now subjected 100 individuals and entities to its Burma sanctions, …
US freezes assets of 2 Burmese businessmen
International Herald Tribune, France -
By Mark Mcdonald HONG KONG: The United States has frozen the assets of two Burmese businessmen and their companies for aiding the military junta in Myanmar, …
Film Buyers Shop for Bargains at Sundance as Studios Pull Back
Bloomberg -
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Burma, Myanmar: The 2008 Weblog Awards Winners
Ashin Mettacara, Sri Lanka -
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Burma Cracks Down on Rangoon Churches
Crosswalk.com, VA -
… and the US Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, to put pressure on the Burmese junta to end these violations and to permit churches …
Official Reflects On Foreign Aid Triumphs, Challenges
NPR -
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HRW Sees Progress in Pakistan After Pervez Musharraf
A Pakistan News, Pakistan -
In Myanmar—which HRW said also draws support from China, Russia and Thailand—democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi went into her sixth straight year of house …
Camera-Ready Victims
National Review Online, NY -
Sudan came in second with 61, Myanmar third with 41. The US was No. 4, with 39 actions, tied with the Democratic Republic of the Congo! …
Myanmar documentary gets HBO deal
Variety Asia, Hong Kong -
HBO has nabbed the US TV rights to Anders Ostergaard’s docu “Burma VJ” ahead of its North American preem at Sundance. A chronicle of the 2007 uprising of …
Assessing the Bush Administration: A Foreign Catastrophe at Every Turn
Antiwar.com, CA -
The president “announced steps to help the Burmese people bring peaceful change and democratic transition to their country.” Well, he may have announced …
Rights group criticises SA government
Independent Online, South Africa -
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US probes link between Malay officials, trafficking
China Post, Taiwan -
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Sundance sets sail amid storm clouds
Hollywood Reporter, United States -
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Gentle Questioning for UN Nominee
New York Times, United States -
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Sundance premieres find buyers as festival opens
The Associated Press -
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Ramos-Horta: Only Filipinos can do it
Inquirer.net, Philippines -
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US hits Myanmar with additional sanctions
eTaiwan News, Taiwan -
Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control says it has added 100 people and entities to its Myanmar sanctions. Myanmar is also called Burma. …
Zaw Zaw was identified as the managing director of the Max Myanmar Group of Companies, a Burmese entity with interests in the gem, timber, construction, …
Boat-people accuse Thai police of uncaring treatment
Cambodia News, Cambodia -
Thai soldiers have forced illegal migrants from Bangladesh and Burma out to sea in rickety boats. The boats, some without engines, had been used to carry …
Left at sea with just a paddle
Electric New Paper, Singapore -
… sources have said that the Thai army is holding Rohingya – Muslims who come from the border areas of Myanmar and Bangladesh – on Koh Sai Daeng, …
HRW sees progress in Pakistan after Musharraf
The News International, Pakistan -
HRW blamed Asian giants China and India for abuses against their own citizens but also for backing military dictatorships such as Myanmar. …
Treasury Targets Financial Backers Of Myanmar Regime
EasyBourse.com, France -
… as it continues to suppress democratic dissent,” OFAC director Adam Szubin said. Many western governments, including the US, refer to Myanmar as Burma.
Eija-Liisa Ahtila at Sundance
ARTINFO, NY -
… monks who led a rebellion in Burma last year. The monks shot what they were doing with small video cameras and then smuggled the materials to Thailand, …
Susan Rice’s Testimony at Her UN Ambassador Hearing
RealClearPolitics, IL -
It is why efforts to pass Security Council resolutions on abuses in places from Zimbabwe to Burma occasion such fierce debate, and don’t always succeed. …
Ceremony to Commemorate Foreign Policy Achievements (2001-2009)
US Department of State, DC -
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The Netherlands supports democratisation in Indonesia
ISRIA (subscription), DC -
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Student activist jailed for 104 years in Burma
Asian Age, India -
Separately, authorities on Wednesday freed six out of nine members of Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) who were arrested last month …
Thank you, Laura; please tell Michelle!
KanglaOnline, India -
Among others, her advocacy on behalf of human-rights abuse victims in the Union of Burma has brought tremendous attention from the international community. …
Memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the …
Whitehouse.gov (press release), DC -
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and laws of the United States, including the Tom Lantos Block Burmese JADE (Junta’s …
Origin of the Chakmas
The New Nation, Bangladesh -
Abhi Raja, around 923 BC came to Burma from Kapilavastu and founded a Sakya line of dynasty at Dha-ngya-wa-ti (the capital) in north Arakan called …
Film scholar B. Ruby Rich plays a leading role at Sundance Film …
UC Santa Cruz, CA -
Made up of videos shot by the Democratic Voice of Burma, the footage was smuggled into Thailand, shipped to Norway, and subsequently broadcast around the …
BC aid worker dumped in ditch after robbery
National Post, Canada -
Jiri Zivny and a team of volunteers were distributing medical items and Christmas gifts to orphanages in China, Vietnam, Thailand and Burma in December. …
Critically injured aid worker from BC dies in Cambodian hospital
The Canadian Press, B.C. -
The group Zivny was part of had also planned to visit Thailand and Burma but most of the volunteers went home because protesters had blockaded Bangkok’s …
Canadian aid worker dies in Cambodia
Calgary Herald, Canada -
… Humanitarian Hope Society were distributing medical supplies and Christmas gifts to orphanages in China, Vietnam, Thailand and Burma in December. …
Regional Fallout from Thai Turmoil
YaleGlobal Online, CT -
We want to bring good change in Myanmar (Burma).” Statements such as these may not be well received by other, more autocratic members of ASEAN such as Laos …
One survey shows liberty shrivelling; another names the “spoilers”
Economist, UK -
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World focus on Burma (14 January 2009)
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End ‘ugly’ human rights record, group urges Obama
CBC.ca, Canada -
Human Rights Watch is urging Barack Obama to end the “ugly record” of complacency and abuse under US President George W. Bush and make human rights a top …
Junta sentences activist to 104 years in prison
Mizzima.com, India -
… a total of 104 years in prison, the longest term so far, early in January, the Thailand based Assistant Association of Political Prisoners (Burma) said. …
Our foreign policy challenges
The Daily Star, Bangladesh -
Over the last 38 years, we have behaved like a country with one neighbour (we took Burma for granted) — a compulsion brought about by many factors, …
Burma’s gem industry: profit that fills the generals’ pockets
Mizzima.com, India -
He also insists that a part of the high-quality gems produced is also smuggled directly to China, Thailand and Hong Kong. “The mining scene in Mogoke today …
Conflicts, crackdowns mar 2008 Asian rights record: HRW
AFP -
In Myanmar, also known as Burma — which HRW said also draws support from China, Russia and Thailand — democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi went into her …
Myanmar Rat Infestation Causing Food Crisis – NGO
Ashin Mettacara, Sri Lanka -
YANGON (AFP)–Tens of thousands of people in remote northwestern Myanmar faced a food crisis after their farmlands were destroyed by a rat infestation, …
18 Detainees Escape Kupang Immigration
Jakarta Globe, Indonesia -
… from Afghanistan and Burma to escape early on Wednesday morning. Rochmadi, head of the Kupang branch office of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights, …
Burma, Myanmar: Religion cannot be separated from politics; what …
Ashin Mettacara, Sri Lanka -
Myanmar has a long way to go in this regard, and the Burmese Generals, if they were smart and wanted to survive as a government, would work at a …
Campaigners urge UK to investigate firms investing in Burma
Mizzima.com, India -
But such insurance companies have to go through the Myanmar Insurance Enterprise (MIE), which takes commission from the insurance companies. …
Obama pressed over human rights
BBC News, UK -
A leading advocacy group called today for US President-elect Barack Obama to put human rights at the centre of US foreign, domestic and security policy. …
Group urges Obama to focus on human rights
Kansas City Star, MO -
… to deal with Zimbabwe, Egypt as trying to limit scrutiny of abuses in Sudan’s Darfur region, and India and China as not addressing repression in Burma. …
Group urges Obama to focus on human rights
The Associated Press -
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Barack Obama should put human rights at the center of US foreign, domestic and security policy to undo “the enormous …
2009 World Report: Obama Should Emphasize Human Rights
منظمة هيومان رايتس ووتش – حقوق الانسان -
… addressing repression in Burma. Human Rights Watch commends southern governments that have bucked the trend and spoken out in support of human rights, …
2008 – A Year In The Laundry
Mondaq News Alerts (registration), UK -
The report lists the following as Jurisdictions of Primary Concern – Afghanistan, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, Burma, …
WJA, GIA to Host Photo Safari of Gemstones in Carlsbad
Diamonds.net, NY -
He has traveled to many remote regions that are the sources of highly treasured gemstones; these include Myanmar (Burma), East Africa, India, Thailand, …
US accused of abdicating role as human rights defender
guardian.co.uk, UK -
In what HRW calls a “misplaced southern solidarity”, India failed to speak out against repression in Burma, harbouring a “deeply ingrained view that …
THAILAND – MYANMAR The tragedy of Rohingya refugees, arrested in …
AsiaNews.it, Italy -
“They have no hope for a better life in Burma. Pushing them back out to sea is not an effective deterrent,” Mr Garcia explained. …
Going organic
Business Mirror, Philippines -
… 56.6), India (123rd, 54.4), Indonesia (131st, 53.4), China (132nd, 53.2), Vietnam (145th, 51), Laos (150th, 50.4) and Burma (176th, 37.7). …
Report Myanmar activist gets 104 years in jail
The Southern Ledger, TN -
… said the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a Thailand-based group of Myanmar activists. It said Bo Min Yu Ko of the All Burma Federation …
Illegal immigrants break out of Indonesian centre
The Australian, Australia -
EIGHTEEN illegal immigrants from Afghanistan and Burma, who were caught trying to enter Australia illegally, have overpowered their guards and escaped from …
Report: Myanmar activist gets 104 years in jail
The Associated Press -
… said the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a Thailand-based group of Myanmar activists. It said Bo Min Yu Ko of the All Burma Federation …
Burma, Myanmar: Blog Award Confirms Final Result For Best Asian Blog
Ashin Mettacara, Sri Lanka -
But the opponents did not know medias and supporters were 100% behind me and my country (Burma). Today we show the world our unity, and we get the power to ...
The Post-Presidency of George W. Bush
Canada Free Press, Canada -
One such place is Myanmar (formerly known as Burma.) It has been ruled by a military junta since 1962. Its populace has almost no freedom to speak of and is …
Burmese Journalists Look Back at 2008—or was it 1984?
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
… reprimanded by authorities after writing a story about the murder of five people in a house near the residence of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. …
RELIGION-INDIA: Reviving Buddhism Where It Was Born
Inter Press Service, Italy -
“Buddhist communities here are still very poor,” explains Fulzele, “We can’t build huge monasteries like in Burma, Sri Lanka or Thailand, where there follow …
Abhisit Needs to Set a New Course on Burma
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
By AUNG ZAW Here’s some good news: Thailand’s new prime minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, says he shares the West’s desire for change in Burma. …
Burma’s Economy Feeling the Pain
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
… according to sources with the Myanmar Garment Manufactures Association. Meanwhile, the powerful Burmese businessman, Tay Za, told senior officials at …
104 Years Given to Political Dissident
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
By MIN LWIN A Burmese court sentenced Bo Min Yu Ko, a member of the All Burma Federation of Student Unions (Upper Burma, ABFSU), to a total of 104 years in …
Mark My Words
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
What can he do to win greater credibility for his mission and to achieve political reconciliation in Burma? A: The UN is playing a key role and we support …
Myanmar dissident gets 104 years in jail
SINDH TODAY, Pakistan -
Bo Min Yo Ko is a member of the Upper Burma (Mandalay) branch of the All Burma Federation of Students Unions. He was denied a defence lawyer and his family …
Basu: State still needs to help vulnerable
DesMoinesRegister.com, IA -
Noting reports of workplace discrimination from recent Burmese refugees, Chen called for more tools to help acculturate refugees. …
City group to help Myanmar refugees
Canoe.ca, Canada -
… Medical Mercy Canada Society (MMC) is taking medicine, equipment, clothes and baby supplies for Myanmar refugees in India, Thailand and Burma. …
Child Labour in Vietnam
CSR Asia, Hong Kong -
Jackie Pollock, a founding member of the Thailand-based Migrant Assistance Programme (MAP) said some officials feared that Burmese migrants, if registered, …
BC aid worker dumped in ditch after robbery
The Province, Canada -
Jiri Zivny and a team of volunteers were distributing medical items and Christmas gifts to orphanages in China, Vietnam, Thailand and Burma in December. …
Singapore / China Singapore and China sign free agreement
JEC Composites, France -
China and Singapore signed the China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (CSFTA) on October 23, 2008, a key step forward that will further enhance bilateral …
Russia ranks low in Freedom in the World 2009 report
Russia-InfoCenter, Russia -
… Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Libya, Sudan, Burma, Equatorial Guinea and Somalia. Russia’s Chechnya territory is in the same category.
Macau ranks sixth freest economy in Asia-Pacific
Macau Daily Times, Macau -
Another finding is that economies classified as free or mostly free also do a much better job promoting human development, reducing poverty and protecting …
New approach to Asean-EU trade?
Straits Times, Singapore -
He said the human rights situation in Myanmar, formerly called Burma, remains an issue of concern for the EU. ‘There’s got to be change in Burma on human …
Which Nations Are Freer Than Others?
TIME -
The remaining worst-rated states are Burma, a tightly-controlled military dicatorship; Equatorial Guinea, a highly repressive regime with one of the worst …
The CIA and Narco-Imperialism
Black Agenda Report, NJ -
During the Vietnam War, the CIA organized the Southeast Asian heroin trade, centered in Burma’s Golden Triangle, creating a global empire with profit …
MP’s to elect new NCGUB PM in exile
Mizzima.com, India -
Meanwhile, Dr. San Aung also said that the recent announcement made by exile based alliance, ‘National Council of Union of Burma’ (NCUB), announcing its …
Illegal migrants flee Indonesian prison
Sydney Morning Herald, Australia -
Eighteen nationals from Afghanistan and Burma detained while trying to illegally enter Australia have escaped from an Indonesian detention centre, …
Clinton Makes No Remarks on Burma
The Irrawaddy News Magazine, Thailand -
“Mrs. Bush has been outspoken on behalf of the plight of Afghan women, on behalf of Aung San Suu Kyi in Burma, and other women facing oppression around the …
Funeral tomorrow for Shan rebel “minister”
Shan Herald Agency for News, Thailand -
… entity from Burma. Known as a brilliant student at the Rangoon University, he had worked at the Thai embassy in Rangoon before coming to Thailand. …
INTERVIEW: Freedom House stresses safeguarding of democracy
Taipei Times, Taiwan -
… and Burma is not Taiwan in terms of what the conditions are on the ground, what the circumstances are, same thing for what’s going on in Thailand, …
Cambridge Council Votes on Gaza
Harvard Crimson, MA - 1
… support of a bill in the state legislature that would use the Commonwealth’s pension fund investments “to promote democracy and human rights in Burma. …
Photo: Sun News Publishing
Daily Sun, Nigeria -
… whopping sum of $500000 to the military regime in Myanmar [former Burma] and demanded immediate explanation from President Umaru Yar’Adua to Nigerians. …
Clinton Challenged On Foreign Donations To Library
Free Internet Press, NY -
Clinton also praised outgoing first lady Laura Bush for her advocacy on behalf of Afghan women and the detained Burmese pro-democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi.
