What's Happening in Myanmar

This week on Season 2, Episode 4 of What's Happening in Myanmar, Suu Kyi was reportedly moved to house arrest amid scepticism, while fighting intensified as the military retook key towns. International legal action and ASEAN diplomacy continued amid growing scrutiny of the crisis. Please click the link to join us, in the podcast show notes https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/membership/   Timecodes— (00:16) Intro (00:35) ASSK moved to house arrest (02:15) Regime increases battlefield gains (03:39) International lobbying and accountability (05:35) ASEAN summit grapples with crisis (06:31) Close  

This week on Season 2, Episode 3 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the junta says Aung San Suu Kyi 'moved to house arrest', claims battlefield victories, and secures China's backing while cracking down on journalists. Resistance groups, meanwhile, are fractured by internal conflict and exhaustion.   Please click the link to join us, in the podcast show notes https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/membership/   Timecodes— (00:05) Intro (00:17) Aung San Suu Kyi 'moved to house arrest' (00:59) Regime victories and fractured alliances (02:03) China's endorsement and the Myitsone dam (03:38) Press crackdown (05:02) Crisis at Frontier (05:52) Resistance under fire (07:14) Close  

This week on Season 2, Episode 2 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the junta grants a New Year amnesty but kept key leaders under surveillance. Airstrikes killed civilians during the holiday, while peace talks were rejected. The opposition and observers of the crisis see these moves by the 'new' government as little more than tactical. Please click the link to join us, in the podcast show notes https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/membership/   Timecodes— (00:22) Amnesty, airstrikes, and resistance (00:48) Selective releases, continued repression (02:55) Holiday airstrikes and civilian casualties (04:05) TNLA political fallout (04:47) Kayin conflict spillovers into Thailand (05:33) Min Aung Hlaing's 100-day plan (06:28) Diplomatic engagements and peace rejection (07:06) Close - an appeal  

This week on Season 2, Episode 1 of What's Happening in Myanmar, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing becomes president to no one's surprise, drawing global condemnation while allies like China and Russia offered congratulations. Activists file a genocide case in Indonesia and a class action suit against Telenor. Amid a severe fuel crisis, the junta forms a new cabinet, while fears of new cyber scam hubs emerge. Please click the link to join us, in the podcast show notes https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/membership/   Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (0:19) The 'new' government (3:53) Rohingya legal case (4:36) Deepening fuel crisis (6:32) Legal action against Telenor  (7:29) Scam centres reemerge (8:18) Close  

This fortnight on episode 67 of What's Happening in Myanmar, Min Aung Hlaing takes the presidency, a fuel crisis hits the petrol pumps in reaction to the widening war in the Middle East, forced conscription, a new council for federal democracy is launched and we look at the plight of the Rohingya.  Please click the link to join us, in the podcast show notes https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/membership/ Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (1:42) Election of MAH as president  (2:53) The fuel crisis (6:19) Six groups launch council for federal democracy push (7:09)Forced conscription into resistance forces (7:37)Plight of Rohingya refugees (8:53) Close Referenced this episode: https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/rakhine-relapse-yaba-returns-to-wartorn-communities-in-western-myanmar/ https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/war-is-turning-rakhine-state-into-a-mine-field/ https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/down-and-out-in-sagaing-idps-struggle-to-survive-in-central-myanmar/  

With Nic Dunlop, features editor at Frontier Myanmar. Today on episode 66 of What's Happening in Myanmar, coup leader Min Aung Hlaing is expected to be elected president later this month as both houses of parliament convene following the military's so-called election, the Three Brotherhood Alliance fractures as the MNDAA attacks the TNLA in Kutkai and takes control of a key trade route to China, and we discuss the future of the podcast. Email the show at [email protected] Our guests— Nic Dunlop, features editor at Frontier Myanmar New original content on the Frontier website: Eid far from home: Rohingya refugees celebrate with nostalgia Myanmar's salvation will not come from Washington 'Stabbing the heart' of Myanmar: Junta moves to restart controversial dam project Is sanctioning the Arakan Army logical?

With Helene Maria Kyed and Justine Chambers, both social anthropologists and senior researchers at the Danish Institute for International Studies, and Ah Lynn, researcher from northwest Myanmar. This fortnight on episode 65 of What's Happening in Myanmar, parliament is set to convene as rumours persist about potential appointments, including Min Aung Hlaing taking the presidency, a fuel crisis hits the petrol pumps in reaction to the widening war in the Middle East, and we discuss the climate change-conflict nexus and how people are experiencing climate change in Myanmar. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (02:09) Dates of parliament announced (04:00) Fuel crisis and military assuagement (06:48) With Helene Maria Kyed, Justine Chambers, & Ah Lynn, the climate-conflict nexus (17:17) New special issue with climate research (36:25) Challenges in mitigating and adapting to effects of climate change (49:11) Close   Our guests— Helene Maria Kyed and Justine Chambers, social anthropologists and senior researchers at the Danish Institute for International Studies And Ah Lynn, a senior researcher from northwest Myanmar The MyCClimate project New original content on the Frontier website: Rakhine relapse: Yaba returns to wartorn communities in western Myanmar War is turning Rakhine State into a mine field Down and out in Sagaing: IDPs struggle to survive in central Myanmar Q&A: 'You don't know what's going to come next' Referenced this episode: The IJBS' special issue on climate change and conflict

With Jason Tower, senior expert, Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime. This fortnight on episode 64 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military publishes full results for its pre-determined election, military appointees are assigned to parliament, the USDP negotiates with the regime on the make-up of government, and we discuss intra-resistance infighting and the China-scam dynamic in regime politics. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (02:22) Election results and appointees (05:03) With Jason Tower, the Chinese New Year statements (18:26) The scam industry (39:49) Myanmar's warlord period (46:44) Close   Our guests— Jason Tower, senior expert, Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime. New on the Frontier website: The poverty of 'conflict studies' in Myanmar In the shadow of conflict, a gold rush erupts on the Chindwin River 'We survive one day at a time': The resistance holds on to Mawdaung Holding the line in Mawdaung Referenced this episode: Untangling Scam Kingpins' Ties to the Chinese Government

With Amara Thiha, non-resident fellow with the China Program at the Stimson Center. This fortnight on episode 63 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military's election conclude to China's approval, with coup leader Min Aung Hlaing enacting a new law to extend the military's oversight of the soon-to-be-formed, military-designed civilian administration. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (02:05) Conflict and civilian attacks over election period (03:40) With Seng, the ongoing case at the ICJ (03:54) Military elections conclude (04:48) The new Union Advisory Council Law (05:50) With Amara Thiha, the new law (10:18) China's interests (24:46) China and revolution (27:18) Thailand elections and approach (34:36) Close   Our guests— Amara Thiha, non-resident fellow with the China Program at the Stimson Centre How China Carved Up Myanmar: Beijing's Strategy to Create Stability Through Dependence Myanmar's December Election: Engineering Continuity Through Institutional Redesign New on the Frontier website: Rohingya repatriation as a governance tool in Bangladesh Growing debt: Myanmar farmers suffer from dwindling bean market 'I'm losing so much': Classrooms fall silent in embattled Rakhine State Referenced this episode: Myanmar's military elections will not lead to peace or improvement in the political crisis The State of Myanmar: ISP–Myanmar's Annual Strategic Review and Foresight 2025–2026China's Intervention and the Limits of Fatalism in Myanmar China Hails Myanmar Junta's 'Steady and Orderly' Election Amnesty International Report

We identified and corrected a factual error in this episode. With Seng, human rights advocate from Myanmar. This week on episode 62 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military's Union Election Commission reduces the areas where voting will occur in the final phase of its so-called election on January 25, and we discuss the background and ongoing arguments of the Gambia's long-delayed case at the International Court of Justice, where it accuses Myanmar of breaking the UN Genocide Convention for its atrocities against the Rohingya people. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:17) Military cancels third phase voting in townships (04:46) With Seng, the ongoing case at the ICJ (15:12) Why The Gambia? (17:12) Prosecution arguments (22:21) Evaluating The Gambia's approach (27:09) The military delegation strategy (31:39) Upcoming nationalist protests (44:26) Success and failure at the ICJ (50:30) Close Our guests— Seng, a human rights advocate from Myanmar New on the Frontier website: No alternative: The junta's election and Myanmar's first-time voters Learning the hard way: Students warn against MBA scams Referenced this episode: Military Elections Will Not Resolve Myanmar's Deeper ProblemsSecretary Antony J. Blinken on the Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity in Burma IAGS RESOLUTION: Persecution of Rohingya By Myanmar Is Genocide & Crimes Against HumanityTHE HAGUE – The International Court of Justice (ICJ) holds public hearings in the case The Gambia v. MyanmarWho is Myanmar Regime Apologist Ko Ko Hlaing? Ultranationalist group plans anti-Rohingya rally in Yangon as ICJ hearings proceed

With Ben Dunant, former editor-in-chief of Frontier Myanmar, independent journalist, and election observer at multiple missions for the Carter Centre. This week on episode 61 of What's Happening in Myanmar, resistance groups across the Dry Zone disturb polls and attack multiple positions during the second phase of voting in the military's election, politician Thet Thet Khaing is detained and accused of unauthorized meetings with foreign embassy staff, and we discuss the military's election on the ground in Yangon.   Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:39) Thet Thet Khaing detained (02:42) Second phase over (03:05) Electoral violence over second phase (05:05) With Ben Dunant, reporting on the elections in Yangon (08:43) Locations and opportunities to observes (15:08) Security and accreditation to report (18:41) Voter attitudes (30:18) Election results (41:29) Close   Our guests— Ben Dunant, former editor-in-chief of Frontier Myanmar, and independent journalist New original content from Frontier this week: Is Min Aung Hlaing looking over both shoulders? Costs of copper: Residents near mines suffer under junta's heavy hand Referenced this episode: VIDEO: Confronting the man who followed the ABC while reporting on Myanmar's elections

With Hannah Russell, higher education program manager at the Institute of Chin Affairs, and Bik Te, scholarship coordinator at the ICA. This week on episode 60 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the Nay Pyi Taw PDF attacks a Union Election Commission convoy, pro-regime political parties complain about the military's problematic so-called election, and we discuss the challenging situation for the tens of thousands of post-coup Myanmar and Chin refugees sheltering in Mizoram State, India.   Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:13) Attack on UEC convoy (02:23) Pro-regime parties unhappy with phase 1 of election (03:57) With Bik Te & Hannah Russell, the Chin refugee community in Mizoram (08:30) Links between zo and Chin people (13:04) Chin livelihoods in Mizoram (23:54) Challenges accessing education in Mizoram (36:54) How can people support the community (41:14) Close   Our guests— Bik Te, scholarship coordinator at the Institute of Chin Affairs Hannah Russell, higher education program manager at the Institute of Chin Affairs Referenced this episode: Fear and loathing greet Myanmar's unfree election Hannah's fundraising run The issue of IJBS on displacement to Mizoram Fragmented Aid & Resistance along the India-Myanmar Border In India's Mizoram, programs for Myanmar refugees struggle to survive amid US aid cuts Mental Health, Gender, and Conflict 

With Frontier Myanmar editor-in-chief Thu Thu Aung and independent journalist Lorcan Lovett. This week on episode 59 of What's Happening in Myanmar, conflict rages as resistance forces launch new offensives, the air force bombs a resort town and kills four children, the military administration holds the first phase of its problematic elections, and we talk about the difficult reporting and information environment facing Myanmar and what media organisations can do to survive and thrive in 2026. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:31) War rages over election New Year period (02:12) KIA progress in Bhamo (03:00) Budalin clashes (04:35) NUG PDFs attack DDI infrastructure (06:37) December 28 polls (10:31) With Thu Thu Aung and Lorcan Lovett, media in 2026 Myanmar (27:41) Technological change and AI (37:42) Close   Our guests— Thu Thu Aung, editor-in-chief of Frontier Myanmar Lorcan Lovett, independent journalist, his On Myanmar Substack And his recent piece for Nieman Reports: Myanmar's Independent Media Innovates to Survive New original content on the Frontier website: India group raises awareness about Myanmar's anti-junta resistance

With Su Mon, senior analyst for the Asia Pacific at the Armed Conflict Location Event Data organisation. This week on episode 58 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the Spring Revolution Alliance is formed, the military detains well-known non-violent protester Htet Myat Aung, and we review another year of war in Myanmar—and what's around the corner in 2026. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:04) The new Spring Revolution Alliance (03:34) Htet Myat Aung detained in Mandalay (06:28) With Su Mon, conflict in 2025 (13:57) The future of conflict in 2026 (19:29) PDFs lack of ammunition (28:23) The militarisation of society (31:30) Close Our guests— Su Mon, senior analyst for the Asia Pacific at the Armed Conflict Location Event Data organisation New original content on the Frontier website: 'Hard to fight': Weapon shortages hamper resistance groups Rebuilding lives, stitch by stitch

With Jared Bissinger, visiting fellow at the Myanmar Studies Program at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, and research lead at Catalyst Economics. This week on episode 57 of What's Happening in Myanmar, a silent strike simmers in towns and cities, overseas voters shun the military's elections, airstrikes devastate civilians, and we discuss the Myanmar national economy's opportunities and constraints going into 2026. Email the show at [email protected]   Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:37) Military atrocities and civilian airstrikes (03:40) Silent strike against elections (04:28) Thai foreign minister in Nay Pyi Taw (05:30) Lack of advance voting overseas (06:09) Foreign arrivals closely scrutinized (07:10) Military detentions under elections law (13:11) Effects of the earthquake (16:50) Winners and losers in the conflict economy (19:50) Land border trade (33:53) What to look for in future RE the economy (37:57) Close   Our guests— Jared Bissinger, a Visiting Fellow at the Myanmar Studies Program at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, and Research Lead at Catalyst Economics. How China outmanoeuvres the West in Myanmar His panel on Monday New original content on the Frontier website: 'Election under fear': Junta persecutes critics of its poll      

With Ah Oo, member of the secretariat of the Kawthoolei Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation Committee (KNRECC), and Paul Sein Twa, co-founder and executive director of the Karen Environmental and Social Action Network and also a member of the KNRECC. This week on episode 56 of What's Happening in Myanmar, election pressures and protests intensify, battles rage in and around Mogok, the regime's scam crackdown widens, and we discuss the new Kawthoolei Climate Action Plan. Email the show at [email protected]   Timecodes—  (00:00) Opening (01:21) Fighting in Mogok (03:16) Military scam crackdowns (05:27) Elections pressure and detentions (10:09) With Ah Oo & Paun Sein Twa, K-CAP (23:22) A climate plan in a conflict zone (28:52) Other EAOs and K-CAP (36:18) Future of K-CAP (44:32) Close   Our guests— Ah Oo, member of the secretariat of the Kawthoolei Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation Committee (KNRECC). Paul Sein Twa, co-founder and executive director of the Karen Environmental and Social Action Network and also part of KNRECC. Paul Sein Twa's Goldman Prize Kawthoolei Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation Committee   New original content on the Frontier website: Justice in limbo: NUG stalls probe into civilian deaths   Further referenced this episode: Junta officials and troops pressure Mandalay residents to vote in door-to-door intimidation campaign  

With Michael Haack, an activist and board member of Campaign for a New Myanmar. This week on episode 55 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the Karen National Liberation Army takes control of a Myawaddy scam compound, the military re-enters Mogok and Mongmit, Belarusian president Aleksandr Lukashenko visits Nay Pyi Taw, and we talk about the Trump administration's many bombshells this week affecting the legal status of Myanmar people in the US. Email the show at [email protected]   Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:12) KNLA takes scam compound (04:30) Military 505(a) amnesty "for elections" (07:45) Military marches into Mogok & Mongmit (08:52) Belarus president visits Myanmar (10:56) With Michael Haack, the Trump administration's announcements (14:30) Revoking TPS (20:57) Retroactively vet and reassess status of Myanmar refugees from 2021 (26:03) Re-examining permanent residency green cards (36:01) Close   Our guests— Michael Haack, an activist and key organizer for passing the Burma Act in the United States How the BURMA Act passed congress What happened to the BURMA Act?    New original content on the Frontier website: 'I had never done this in my life': Poverty pushes many to beg in Rakhine   Further referenced this episode:  'A constant fear': Myanmar nationals face imprisonment back home as US ends protected status  

With Joseph Young, Daily Briefing newsletter writer for Frontier Myanmar. This week on episode 54 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the Karen National Liberation Army takes another border town, the Philippines announces its 2026 ASEAN special envoy on Myanmar, the military raids the Shwe Kokko scam compound, and we talk about China's influence on northern Shan State and what's behind the military's moves in Myawaddy. Email the show at [email protected]   Timecodes— (00:00) Opening (01:16) Election violence hits Yangon (03:21) New ASEAN special envoy to Myanmar (04:13) KNLA takes Maw Taung & military Magway rampage (06:22) With Joseph Young, the scam raids & updates (21:00) China's peace deals & Mogok (31:35) Close   Our guests— Joseph Young, Daily Briefing newsletter writer at Frontier Myanmar New original content on the Frontier website: Refugee plan out to sea: Bangladesh closes Rohingya island to new arrivals     

With Khin Hnin Phyu Soe, freelance journalist. This week on episode 53 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the US steps up its fight against scams in Southeast Asia as the regime continues its demolitions at KK Park, another Rohingya boat tragedy occurs, the military kills over 20 civilians in its attacks around the country, and we discuss the increase in underage girls marrying to avoid conscription. Email the show at [email protected]  Timecodes—   (00:00) Opening (00:59) U.S. anti-scam task force and KK park in limbo (04:30) Rohingya boat tragedy off Langkawi (05:52) Conflict updates and civilian deaths (09:05) With Khin Hnin Phyu Soe, underage marriage (14:05) Options for avoiding conscription (27:27) Close   Our guests—  Khin Hnin Phyu Soe, freelance journalist. Early to wed: Myanmar girls marry to avoid military service    New original content on the Frontier website: PR ploy: Junta scam centre raid changes little    Further referenced this episode:  Junta struggles to regain territory ahead of election push

With Laur Kiik, Burma studies researcher and postdoctoral fellow at the University of Oslo. This week on episode 52 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military detains civilians for supposedly criticising its so-called elections, the fallout from demolitions at KK Park scam compound increases, and we discuss livelihoods at the Myitsone confluence in Kachin State—including the likelihood of the Myitsone dam hydropower project being resumed.   Email the show at [email protected]   Timecodes—   (00:00) Opening (01:02) KK park demolition fallout (02:36) Military advances and Mogok in suspension (04:20) Detention of election "critics" (05:58) With Laur Kiik, Myitsone suspension (13:26) Myitsone villages (28:53) Gold mining at Myitsone (38:28) Close   Our guests—   Laur Kiik, Burma Studies researcher and postdoctoral fellow at the University of Oslo.   Rural resistance under a golden dictatorship, part 1: the Myitsone villages Rural resistance under a golden dictatorship, part 2: the suspended villages   New original content on the Frontier website:   'Living in fear of the sky': Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh battle environmental crisis   Further referenced this episode:   Hkyet Hting Nan: 'One day we will have a Kachin president'

With Aung Khant, coordinator of the Myanmar Freedom of Religion or Belief Network. This week on episode 51 of What's Happening in Myanmar, ASEAN dithers once again, the military's UEC announces more election updates, the Ta'ang National Liberation Army signs a ceasefire ceding Mogok and Mongmit to the military, and we discuss religious freedom in Myanmar since the 2021 coup. Email the show at [email protected]   Timecodes—  (00:00) Opening  (01:45) ASEAN summit leads nowhere (02:24) Election updates (06:11) Ta'ang National Liberation Army ceasefire (08:28) With Aung Khant, religious freedom in Myanmar (18:20) FoRB Network Myanmar's report (28:17) Religion in Myanmar, and ethnicity (33:18) Muslim suffering after Sagaing earthquake   Our guests— Aung Khant, Coordinator of the Myanmar Freedom of Religion or Belief Network New original content on the Frontier website: Early to wed: Myanmar girls marry to avoid military service Searching for solutions for the Rohingya   Further referenced this episode: After 29 years, RFA is on pause Freedom House Myanmar 2025 Myanmar's Generals Step into Politics as Newly Minted Civilians

With Hunter Marston, adjunct fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. This week on episode 50 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the UEC announces election campaigning restrictions, SpaceX cuts off Starlink for scammers, and we discuss the upcoming ASEAN summit scheduled for this weekend, U.S. and Chinese policy on Myanmar, and more. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m08s :: News round up, union members freed01m52s :: UEC restricts in-person election campaigning03m29s :: Scam raids, Starlink cut08m18s :: With Hunter Marson, China policy on Myanmar20m05s :: 47th ASEAN summit41m10s :: Close Our guests— Hunter Marston, adjunct fellow (non-resident), Southeast Asia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and adjunct fellow with La Trobe Asia. New original content on the Frontier website: 'The ending is already known': USDP gets head start on election campaign Further referenced this episode: Supporting Myanmar Beyond the 'ASEAN Way'

With Jacob Sims, visiting fellow at Harvard University's Asia Centre. This week on episode 49 of What's Happening in Myanmar, election campaign updates and voter list concerns, the military retakes Hsipaw, and we discuss human trafficking and the fallout of the scam crackdown from earlier this year. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m10s :: Election updates 04m07s :: Nat Yay Kan lost to AA 05m02s :: PDF prison breakout in Hakha 05m46s :: Hsipaw lost to the military 07m20s :: With Jacob Sims, TIP human trafficking report 18m55s :: Scams since the crackdown 23m48s :: Indictment of Chen Zhi 33m03s :: Income generation and substitution after the scams 40m05s :: Close   Our guests— Jacob Sims, visiting fellow at Harvard University's Asia Centre and expert on organised crime in Southeast Asia Two paths to the bottom: When states become sponsors of human trafficking New original content on the Frontier website: 'I don't know what comes next': US visa ban quashes Myanmar students' dreams Women in central Myanmar struggle with low wages Further referenced this episode: Myanmar scam cities booming despite crackdown – using Musk's Starlink

With Amaël Vier, election consultant and analyst, and Tharindu Abeyrathna, senior program officer for campaign and advocacy at the Asian Network for Free Elections. This week on episode 48 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military massacres civilians at a Buddhist holiday commemoration, the Union Election Commission posts problematic voter lists, and we discuss the new ANFREL assessment report on the military's planned elections. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m00s :: Announcement of new CEO01m48s :: Thadingyut massacre03m31s :: Sagaing & KIA conflict updates04m27s :: Election news06m15s :: With Tharindu & Amaël, new ANFREL election report27m13s :: India as an election observer31m08s :: ASEAN's response to elections38m16s :: Close Our guests— Amaël Vier, election consultant and analyst Tharindu Abeyrathna, senior program officer for campaign and advocacy at the Asian Network for Free Elections New original content on the Frontier website: Working for peanuts: The precarious lives of women in central Myanmar'Nothing you can do': Spectre of starvation haunts Rakhine Frontier appoints new CEO, as founder bows out Further referenced this episode: ANFREL: Myanmar Junta's Planned Elections: Falling Short of Democratic Legitimacy

With Carlos Sardiña Galache, author and Frontier Myanmar digital editor. This week on episode 47 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military retakes Kyaukme, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing returns from Central Asia as his air force kills dozens of civilians across the country, and we discuss this week's United Nations conference on the Rohingya along with Arakan Army leadership.  Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m06s :: News roundup04m05s :: With Carlos Sardiña Galache, the UN conference on the Rohingya09m53s :: The AA accuses the BGB of assisting Rohingya militants14m16s :: Twan Mrat Naing's interview30m30s :: The NUG and the Rohingya38m21s :: Close Our guests— Carlos Sardiña Galache, author and digital editor at Frontier Myanmar His book: The Burmese Labyrinth New original content on the Frontier website: UN says Myanmar military razed Rohingya villages in 'a systematic pattern'The cost of trade or Myanmar's economic struggle amid shortages and soaring prices Further referenced this episode: AA Chief Defends Rakhine Rebels Against Charges of Genocide'They don't represent us': Rohingya armed groups wreak havoc in RakhineUpdated Timeline: Myanmar Junta's Nuclear Ambitions

With Dustin Barter and Stella Naw, two co-authors of a new ODI report on humanitarianism and revolutionary state-building in Myanmar. This week on episode 46 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the resistance takes Banmauk, a Kachin Independence Army camp is hit with a precision airstrike, rights organisations react to Sweden ceasing development aid, and we discuss why international donors and humanitarian actors should engage with the new "pluralistic state" of Myanmar. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m19s :: News roundup 02m41s :: With Stella Naw & Dustin Barter, an aid rethink 16m21s :: The pluralistic state 25m54s :: Risk aversion and risk taking for aid 33m17s :: Recommendations for resistance 40m56s :: Close Our guests— Dustin Barter, Senior Research Fellow in the Humanitarian Policy Group at ODI Global Stella Naw, academic activist working on Indigenous and decolonial peacebuilding and governance practices And the reports under discussion: Making Myanmar: humanitarianism amid revolutionary state-building Sweden ends development aid to Myanmar, abandoning media and civil society Plus, new original content on the Frontier website: Viral justice: Social media and the court of public opinion The perils of abortion for Myanmar women Seeking solidarity for Myanmar in a cruel world

With Naing Min Khant, emerging researcher at the Institute for Strategy and Policy, Myanmar. This week on episode 45 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military regime makes gains in Bhamo, the air force bombs and kills dozens of students at a high school, the Union Election Commission declares 56 townships will not be part of December's so-called elections, and we discuss the likelihood of change within the Myanmar military's leadership, as the fourth generation of officers eye off the top job. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m06s :: News roundup02m41s :: With Naing Min Khant, the military's leadership10m19s :: How does change happen15m22s :: Min Aung Hlaing's popularity in the military24m12s :: Anti-China sentiment  48m37s :: Close Our guests— Naing Min Khant, emerging researcher at ISP-Myanmar And the ISP-Myanmar report under discussion: ISP On Point No. 27: Prospective 4th Generation Tatmadaw: Payhways to Reform or Further Regression? Plus, new original content on the Frontier website: Q&A: 'Civilians should never be targeted' Doh Athan: Regime airstrike on school leaves trauma in its wake Tweet: This week on Frontier's podcast What's Happening in Myanmar, regime gains in Bhamo, air force bombs kill dozens of students sheltering in a high school in Kyauktaw Township, and ISP-Myanmar's Naing Min Khant talks about the prospects for the upcoming fourth generation of Myanmar military leadership.

With Michael Lidauer, an international elections expert with experience in Myanmar since 2010. This week on episode 44 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the Kayin State Border Guard Force declares its support for the military's elections, as its leaders and associates are sanctioned by the United States for facilitating the scam industry, and we discuss the technical aspects of the military running polls at the end of the year. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m34s :: News roundup03m01s :: With Michael Lidauer, the 2020 elections10m37s :: Military's planned 2025 elections14m54s :: The Union Election Commission19m41s :: Electoral system change to PR28m20s :: Political parties 39m02s :: Observers46m21s :: Close Our guests— Michael Lidauer, international elections expert New original content on the Frontier website: Q&A: 'Civilians should never be targeted' Doh Athan: Regime airstrike on school leaves trauma in its wake Further referenced this episode: Aiding Oppression or Saving Lives? The Dry Zone's Humanitarian Reckoning

With Nandar, member of the Generations Solidarity Coalition of Nationalities, and participant in the anti-sham elections campaign. This week on episode 43 of What's Happening in Myanmar, coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing is in China, while at home his military continues its offensives killing civilians, revolutionaries try to prevent the region from accepting the legitimacy of the military's planned elections, and we discuss the Anti-Sham Election Campaign's aims and strategies. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 02m03s :: News roundup 05m16s :: With Nandar, the Anti-Sham Election Campaign 15m26s :: Legitimacy 28m11s :: Close Our guests— Nandar, from the Generations Solidarity Coalition Nationalities The Sham Election Campaign Linktree New original content on the Frontier website: The junta positions itself in the new world order Fear and voting in Myanmar: Junta election heralds more violence Further referenced this episode: Will the China–Myanmar meandering railway project get started soon? David Mathieson on the ANU's Myanmar Research Centre podcast in 2018

With Nicholas Coppel, former Australian ambassador to Myanmar and president of the Australia Myanmar Institute. This week on episode 42 of What's Happening in Myanmar, the military captures two mines from resistance forces, the historic Gokteik viaduct sustains major damage, and we discuss the consequences of the military's planned elections starting on December 28. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m31s :: Conflict updates 05m16s :: With Nicholas Copperl, the military elections 25m25s :: Is it all about Min Aung Hlaing? 33m43s :: The military's plans post-election 38m04s :: Close Our guests— Nicholas Coppel, former Australian ambassador to Myanmar from 2015 to 2018, honorary fellow at the University of Melbourne, and president of the Australia Myanmar Institute. His latest publication: Media weaponisation in Myanmar and the world's relative indifference to its crisis

With Stephen Campbell, associate professor in Social Sciences at Nanyang Technological University, and Joseph Young, Daily Briefing writer at Frontier Myanmar. This week on episode 41 of What's Happening in Myanmar, massive airstrikes occur around the country as the military continues offensives, and we discuss union members being sent to Insein prison, and the UWSA's declaration of non-assistance after admitting pressure from China. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 00m52s :: Union members sent to Insein02m55s :: With Stephen Campbell, the STUM and Myo Myo Aye 15m25s :: Economic agenda before the coup21m13s :: With Joseph Young, conflict and UWSA statement38m58s :: Close Our guests— Stephen Campbell, associate professor, School of Social Sciences, Nanyang Technological University And Joseph Young, daily briefing writer for Frontier Myanmar Other new content on the Frontier website: Back in business: Zahkung Ting Ying tries to rebuild his empire After the flood: Heavy rain hits hard on Kachin's border with China Shattered sanctuaries: Quake-damaged mosques fight for survival Check out the latest episode of Doh Athan, Frontier's podcast on human rights issues in Myanmar.

With Hka San Lwi, editor-in-chief of Kachin Waves. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, major ethnic armed organisations make statements on peace and war, the military presses its advantage right across the country, and we discuss why the struggle for Bhamo remains the most consequential battle for the revolution going forward. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m18s :: News roundup 05m09s :: With Hka San Lwi, continuing fighting for Bhamo 27m52s :: Flash flooding in Laiza 28m35s :: Close Our guests— Hka San Lwi, editor-in-chief of Kachin Waves New content on the Frontier website: The price of control: War sinks Rakhine State's economy 'Unable to compete': Northern Shan faces wave of Chinese investment

With Emily Fishbein, freelance journalist currently serving as a Pulitzer Center Rainforest Investigations Network fellow, and Hpan Ja Brang, social justice activist and freelance journalist from Kachinland. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the TNLA pushed firmly on the defensive, the Arakan Army permits Starlink registrations in war-torn Rakhine State, and we discuss the KIA's resumption of rare earth mining around Pangwa. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m04s :: TNLA put on the defensive 02m26s :: Arakan Army allows Starlink 05m16s :: With Emily Fishbein and Hpan Ja Brang, the Pangwa mining pause 33m50s :: Holding the KIO to account 42m43s :: Close Our guests— Emily Fishbein, freelance journalist currently serving as a Pulitzer Center Rainforest Investigations Network fellow Hpan Ja Brang, social justice activist and freelance journalist from Kachinland Their feature story: 'Strategic bargaining chips': Kachin's rare earth mining pause Other new content on the Frontier website: 'Worse than ever': Inwa tourism in ruinsBribes, graft and kickbacks: Corruption with impunity

With Pai Deetes, Southeast Asia Program Regional Campaigns Director at International Rivers. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military regime lifts the state of emergency and enacts new laws for elections, making coup leader Min Aung Hlaing the temporary acting president, and we discuss the transboundary water contamination from mines in Myanmar affecting northern Thailand. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 00m50s :: News round up 02m30s :: Military groundwork for elections 06m34s :: U.S. sanctions lifted and rare earth lobbying 09m23s :: With Pai Deetes, contamination of northern Thai rivers 32m22s :: Escalating the issue to regional fora 38m58s :: Close Our guest— Pai Deetes, the Southeast Asia Program Regional Campaigns Director at International Rivers New content on the Frontier website: https://www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/hitting-the-brakes-junta-cracks-down-on-unlicensed-vehicles/

With Dr Kid, communications officer of the Myanmar Defence and Security Institute. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military takes back Thabeikkyin, while giving out rice and detaining suspects in Nawnghkio, and we discuss how soldiers who escape the army are working to expose the regime's weaknesses and defeat the military. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m04s :: Nawnghkio under military rule02m10s :: Thabeikkyin retaken 04m14s :: With Dr Kid, the Myanmar Defence and Security Institute13m04s :: Changes in military command structure33m42s :: Being a CDM soldier in 202541m56s :: Close Our guest— Dr Kid, communications officer of the MDSI Its reports on conscription and the air force command New content on the Frontier website: 'We are living in fear': Kidnappings menace Monywa True believers: The Myanmar-Americans who stand with Trump  

With Greg Constantine, documentary photographer. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military marches into Nawnghkio, and we discuss the history and identity of the Rohingya community through the lens of the new Ek Khaale exhibition. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 00m57s :: Nawnghkio taken by military03m06s :: With Greg Constantine, the Ek Khaale exhibition19m51s :: The Rohingya and history as a chain reaction37m20s :: Close Our guest— Greg Constantine, documentary photographer The exhibition online: EK KHAALE - Once Upon A Time - The Rohingya New content on the Frontier website: 'Ticking time bomb': Shoddy post-quake reconstruction puts more Myanmar lives at risk

With outgoing Frontier Myanmar editor-in-chief Ben Dunant and incoming editor-in-chief Thu Thu Aung. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, our two editors talk about Frontier and the Myanmar media landscape as Thu Thu takes the reigns from Ben, who is moving on after seven years at Frontier. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m51s :: Introducing Thu Thu Aung04m35s :: Ben being a foreign journalist before the coup07m01s :: Thu Thu's career 19m06s :: Ben as editor-in-chief in exile28m08s :: Frontier's 10th birthday28m56s :: Close Our guests— Thu Thu Aung, Frontier's editor-in-chief Ben Dunant, Frontier's outgoing editor-in-chief New content on the Frontier website: A 'brotherly' fight: Chin factions battle over Indian border Fighting to the last: The TNLA digs in Other Frontier reports mentioned in this episode: The misrule of Inle Lake

With Shayna Bauchner, Asia researcher for Human Rights Watch, and Thiri, an independent researcher. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, Belarus support for the Myanmar air force is exposed, another jet goes down, and we discuss the surge in the use of child soldiers by the State Administration Council. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m28s :: Belarus helps Myanmar air force 03m04s :: Another jet down 04m30s :: With Shayna Bauchner and Thiri, child soldiers in the military 25m01s :: Child soldiers resisting the military 31m31s :: Close  Our guests— Shayna Bauchner, Asia researcher for Human Rights Watch Thiri, an independent researcher working with the same organisation HRW Myanmar: Stop Recruitment, Use of Child Soldiers Other reports mentioned in this episode: ကန်ဒေါင့်ရဲစခန်းတိုက်ပွဲမှာ စစ်မှုထမ်းကလေးစစ်သားတစ်ဦး ဖမ်းမိ UN Secretary General's Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict Junta dragnet: More youth abducted in desperate conscription drive The war from the sky: How drone warfare is shaping the conflict in Myanmar

With Ya Nwe, Frontier Myanmar journalist. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, gains to workers' wages widen with momentum from May Day, and coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing gives a peace performance in earthquake-devastated Nay Pyi Taw. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m21s :: Peace Conference and Belarus 04m39s :: With Ya New, Tsang Yih strikes, wage gains, and ILO convention 18m00s :: Lack of SAC and police interference 23m11s :: Future goals for the labour movement 25m02s :: Close  Our guests— Ya Nwe, journalist with Frontier Myanmar Striking gold: Myanmar workers score higher wages And new content on the website: 'I try to keep myself busy': Working online in the world's largest refugee camp

With Thomas Kean, senior consultant for Myanmar and Bangladesh with International Crisis Group. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the Arakan Army tightens its noose and expands its buffer zone as soldiers defect in Kyaukphyu and Ngape, and we discuss Rohingya armed group organizing in the refugee camps of Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m10s :: The Arakan Army's dominant position05m23s :: With Tom Kean, Rohingya armed group organising17m46s :: Dire conditions in Bangladesh refugee camps31m31s :: Close Our guests— Thomas Kean, senior consultant for Myanmar and Bangladesh with International Crisis Group His new report with International Crisis Group And new content on the website: Striking gold: Myanmar workers score higher wages New Frontier: Award-winning Myanmar journalist to lead newsroom

With Lway Noon, a Ta'ang activist and researcher, and Francesco Buscemi, post-doctoral fellow in geography at the University of Bologna. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, a jet fighter shot down, fresh hopes for Myanmar workers, and we talk about the new administration in Ta'ang National Liberation Army territory. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m10s :: New ILO resolution03m05s :: Jet fighter downed05m18s :: With Lway Noon & Francesco Buscemi, administrating Ta'ang Land51m01s :: Close Our guests— Francesco Buscemi, post-doctoral fellow in Geography at the University of Bologna: His new book on the TNLA And Lway Noon, Ta'ang activist and researcher New original content on the Frontier website since our last episode: Beyond Rakhine: Arakan Army advance brings hope and fearElectronic oppression: The junta sharpens its instruments of control And also referenced in this episode: UN labour agency revives sanctions against Myanmar junta

With Tony Neil, PhD candidate in the Department of International Development at the London School of Economics and Political Science and visiting fellow at the Australian National University, and Saw Day Hsi, a Karen researcher in Kawthoolei. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, floods affect the north and southwest, the Shangri La dialogue generates more politicospeak, and the Karen resistance makes big gains on the Thailand-Myanmar border. Timecodes— 01m19s :: Shangri La dialogue 02m50s :: Floods06m23s :: Karen resistance victories09m18s :: With Tony Neil & Saw Day Hsi, Karen resistance strategy39m17s :: Close Our guests— Saw Day Hsi, Karen researcher and Kawthoolei native, and Tony Neil, PhD candidate at the London School of Economics and Political Science, and Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University See his bio at LSEHis thoughts on the Karen National Union's governance as bricolageHis latest publication with the Centre on Armed Groups New original content on the Frontier website since our last episode: Compensation overload: Insurance companies struggle after quake And also referenced in this episode: The latest episode of Doh AthanControl of Sittaung River basin in hands of resistance, Karen fighters

With Dr. Monalisa Adhikari, senior lecturer in international politics at the University of Stirling. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, mass Rohingya drownings at sea, KNLA victories, TNLA defeats, and we discuss the negativity surrounding the recent ASEAN summit in Malaysia and its ineffectual statement on Myanmar. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m07s :: News roundup06m57s :: With Monalisa Adhikari, the ASEAN summit27m10s :: India and China working with ASEAN32m00s :: Peace processes in Myanmar37m46s :: Close Our guests— Monalisa Adhikari See her institutional bio here for a list of her publications New original content on the Frontier website since our last episode: Editorial: ASEAN is sliding into irrelevance on Myanmar 'They look down on us for being Muslims': Kaman marginalised in Yangon And also referenced in this episode: Justice For Myanmar's recent report The UNOHCHR's recent report

With Angshuman Choudhury, doctoral candidate at the National University of Singapore and King's College London. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, thousands of workers successfully strike for better factory conditions, and we discuss the murky killing of 10 Myanmar rebels by India's Assam Rifles. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m02s :: Successful strike in Hlaingtharya West03m37s :: With Angshuman Choudhury, killings in Tamu21m50s :: India and the Rohingya29m18s :: Close Our guests— Angshuman Choudhury, Doctoral candidate in Comparative Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore and King's College London, and a long-time watcher of India-Myanmar affairs New content on the Frontier website since our last episode: Rights deferred: Citizenship reform mothballed in Myanmar

With Richard Horsey, senior Myanmar adviser at the International Crisis Group. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military kills dozens of civilians in multiple major air strikes across the country, coup leader Min Aung Hlaing visits Russia again, and we discuss Myanmar's relationship with that country. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 00m55s :: Air strikes kill children and civilians03m37s :: With Richard Horsey, Min Aung Hlaing's jubilance09m35s :: The Myanmar-Russia relationship30m32s :: Close Our guests— Richard Horsey, Senior Myanmar Adviser at the International Crisis Group. Richard's 2022 report with the International Crisis Group on Myanmar-Russia relationsAnd check out the group's recent April briefing on the Myanmar-India border New content on the Frontier website since our last episode: Logged out: Conflict drives deforestation in Bago mountains

With Jared Bissinger, a visiting fellow at the Myanmar Studies Program at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore and research lead at Catalyst Economics. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, eyes are still on northern Shan State as the military pressures the TNLA after retaking Lashio, and we discuss how armed groups in Myanmar run their economies. Email the show at [email protected] Join the Frontier team! We're seeking a Managing Editor to help lead our newsroom. Find out more here Timecodes— 01m09s :: Northern Shan State news06m40s :: With Jared Bissinger, non-state actors' economic governance42m11s :: Close  Our guest— Jared Bissinger, a visiting fellow at the Myanmar Studies Program at ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore and research lead at Catalyst Economics. His ISEAS and Singapore work: Economic Governance of Non-State Authorities in Myanmar: Potentials and Pitfalls Challenges and Priorities for Myanmar's Conflicted Economy Myanmar's Earthquake Threatens a Lasting Economic Scar The State Administration Council and the Restyling of Myanmar's Economy Myanmar's Resistance and the Future of Border Trade: Challenges and Opportunities New content on the Frontier website since our last episode: 'They don't represent us': Rohingya armed groups wreak havoc in Rakhine Q&A: Explaining Myanmar's private security law  

With Htet Aung, a journalist with Frontier Myanmar. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military floats moving its damaged ministries back to Yangon while killing hundreds of people in the month since the March 28 earthquake, and we discuss the challenges of reporting on the quake and its devastating aftermath in Mandalay and Sagaing. Email the show at [email protected] Join the Frontier team! We're seeking a Managing Editor to help lead our newsroom. Find out more here Timecodes— 01m15s :: A month after the quake05m56s :: With Htet Aung, reporting on the quake16m30s :: Naypyitaw and damaged ministries22m50s :: Close  Our guests— Htet Aung, independent journalist, and regular contributor to our newsletters and features New content on the Frontier website since our last episode: Striking oil: Magway Region's resource wealth draws junta fire

With Danseng Lawn, director of the Kachinland Research Centre, and independent journalist Lorcan Lovett. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military reoccupies Lashio with help from the MNDAA and China, while still fighting the TNLA nearby, and we discuss the military defeats this month at Falam and Indaw. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 01m21s :: Lashio back in the fold06m08s :: With Danseng Lawn, Indaw military defeat21m14s :: With Lorcan Lovett, Falam military defeat37m04s :: Close Our guests— Lorcan Lovett, independent journalist, his On Myanmar Substack And Dan Seng Lawn, Director of the Kachinland Research Centre New content on the Frontier website since our last episode— US aid cuts kneecap Myanmar in fight against tuberculosis Myanmar's resistance faces a moral quandary after the quake New junta rules curb aid to Mandalay quake victims

With Nay Lin, a fundraiser and coordinator of earthquake relief efforts. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the military is routed from Falam and Indaw, but looks set to walk into Lashio, and we discuss the challenges meeting humanitarian needs after the earthquake. Note: There will be no episode next week, April 18, due to the Thingyan holiday. Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 1m10s :: War updates5m16s :: With Nay Lin, relief efforts for the quake29m03s :: Close Our guest— Nay Lin, coordinating earthquake relief efforts for local communities His most recent fundraiser New content on the website this week: Editorial: Quake response shows where junta's priorities lie 'We didn't find anyone alive': Earthquake buries the faithful at Sagaing religious sites Down and out: Junta offers scant help to homeless civil servants

With Vicky Bowman, former U.K. ambassador to Myanmar, and director of the Myanmar Centre for Responsible Business. This week on What's Happening in Myanmar, the devastating earthquake of a century, and we discuss the new private security services law and Chinese boots on the ground. Donate for the quake here Email the show at [email protected] Timecodes— 1m27s :: Earthquake19m36s :: With Vicky Bowman, private security law52m01s :: Close Our guest— Vicky Bowman, director of the Myanmar Centre for Responsible Business Their baseline report New content on the Frontier website this week: 'We hear screams all the time': Volunteer rescue teams shoulder post-quake burden Facebook's 'lethal carelessness' in Myanmar Embracing the enemy: Resistance forces welcome new defectors