Table of Contents
THE CONTEXT: The ongoing conflict between ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and the military junta in Myanmar has created a severe humanitarian crisis, prompting discussions at the United Nations Security Council on July 3, 2024. Experts have called for India to reconsider its policy towards Myanmar, suggesting that establishing channels with EAOs could help alleviate the suffering of affected civilians.
THE ISSUES:
- Humanitarian Crisis and Refugee Influx: The conflict between the ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and the military junta in Myanmar has created a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and leading to a significant influx of refugees into India, particularly in the northeastern states like Mizoram. This situation necessitates immediate humanitarian assistance and a review of India’s policy to address the needs of these displaced populations.
- Strategic and Diplomatic Balance: India’s traditional policy has focused on maintaining cordial relations with the military junta while supporting democratic forces. However, the current stalemate in Myanmar, where neither the military nor the opposition has been able to assert complete control, calls for a reassessment. India must balance its strategic interests with humanitarian concerns and consider engaging with the junta and the EAOs to ensure stability and protect its national interests.
- Influence of China: China’s dual support for the military junta and the EAOs complicates the situation. China has significant influence in Myanmar and has actively engaged with various stakeholders, including facilitating ceasefires and maintaining economic ties. India’s policy must account for this dynamic and seek to counterbalance China’s influence by establishing channels with the EAOs and other resistance groups.
- Humanitarian Assistance as a Diplomatic Tool: Providing humanitarian assistance is seen as a non-controversial way for India to intervene and help the affected civilians in Myanmar. This approach could help India gain goodwill and leverage in Myanmar without directly interfering in its internal affairs. Humanitarian aid could include medical supplies, food, and other essential items, particularly in the border areas.
- Dialogue and Engagement with EAOs: Given the significant control that EAOs have over large parts of Myanmar, there is a compelling argument for India to engage with these groups. Establishing dialogue with the EAOs could help India secure its borders, protect its investments, and support the broader goal of stability in the region. This engagement could also help mitigate China’s influence and support the democratic aspirations of the Myanmar people.
- Regional and International Cooperation: India should consult with regional neighbors like Thailand, Bangladesh, and Laos, as well as international actors, to develop a coordinated approach to the crisis in Myanmar. Engaging in Track 1.5 and Track 2 dialogues involving official and non-official actors could help build a consensus on addressing Myanmar’s humanitarian and political challenges.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Humanitarian Assistance and Support: India should prioritize providing humanitarian aid to the affected regions, especially along the India-Myanmar border. This would include providing essential medical supplies, including anesthesia, sanitary napkins, and prosthetics for those injured in the conflict. It would also assist in rebuilding homes and infrastructure destroyed by the conflict, particularly in bombed areas like the Chin region. Finally, it would ensure the delivery of food and clean water to displaced populations and those in conflict zones.
- Engagement with Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs): Ensure aid reaches all affected areas, including those controlled by EAOs. Engage in dialogues to understand the needs and demands of EAOs, potentially leading to a more stable and peaceful region. By engaging with EAOs, India can counteract China’s influence, which supports both the junta and some EAOs.
- Diplomatic and Strategic Dialogue: Engage with national-level experts and scholars who understand Myanmar’s history and complexities. To ensure a collective approach to stability in Myanmar, collaborate with neighboring countries like Thailand, Bangladesh, and Laos, and even engage with China. Utilize informal diplomatic channels to foster dialogue between the National Unity Government (NUG), EAOs, and the military junta.
- Balancing Relations with the Junta and Democratic Forces: Continue diplomatic relations with the military junta to ensure bilateral cooperation and stability. Quietly support democratic forces and the NUG to promote a transition towards democracy. Use India’s influence to encourage the junta to address the humanitarian crisis and consider democratic reforms.
- Infrastructure and Economic Collaboration: Expedite projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the Sittwe Port to improve regional connectivity and economic cooperation. Diversify trade relations and invest in sectors beyond traditional areas to balance economic interests and reduce dependency on China. Provide tractors, seeds, and other agricultural support to help rebuild local economies in conflict-affected regions.
THE CONCLUSION:
The humanitarian crisis in Myanmar presents a compelling case for India to review its policy toward the country. Engaging with EAOs and providing humanitarian assistance could help alleviate civilians’ suffering and stabilize the region. However, any policy shift must be carefully calibrated to balance India’s strategic interests, maintain regional stability, and address the complex dynamics of the Myanmar conflict.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan borders, including the Line of Control (LoC). Also, discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. 2020
Q.2 The cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security challenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various challenges currently emanating across the India-Myanmar border. Also, discuss the steps to counter the challenges. 2019
Q.3 International aid’ is an accepted form of helping ‘resource-challenged’ nations. Comment on ‘ethics in contemporary international aid’. Support your answer with suitable examples. 2023
Q.4 “Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face prosecution or human rights violation.” Examine the statement with reference to the ethical dimension being violated by the nation claiming to be democratic with an open society. 2021
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 The conflict between ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) and the military junta in Myanmar has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, prompting calls for India to review its policy towards Myanmar. Discuss the reasons for a potential course correction in India’s policy, considering both humanitarian and strategic dimensions. What measures can India adopt to address the humanitarian crisis while safeguarding its national interests?
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