Myanmar’s Civil War: Five Years Later
The civil war in Myanmar has persisted for half a decade since the military coup in 2021. Despite the ongoing violence, the conflict has received less global attention compared to situations in the Middle East and Ukraine.
“Myanmar’s former army chief, U Min Aung Hlaing, initiated the coup four years ago, displacing the elected government. This action triggered a comprehensive war with the military facing numerous rebel factions united against the appointed government.”
In April, after manipulated elections, U Min Aung Hlaing secured the presidency, promoting the notion of a business-friendly nation. However, this political maneuver coincided with a significant rise in civilian casualties. Human rights organizations reported that April saw the highest monthly death toll since 2021.
According to A.C.L.E.D., Myanmar was designated as the most severe conflict zone globally in 2025, second only to the Palestinian territories. The conflict has claimed over 90,000 lives and includes more than 1,200 armed groups, the most fragmented of its kind. Rebel militias control more than half of the nation, although recent intensified military actions threaten their hold.
An estimated 4 million people have been displaced within the country, which has a population of about 50 million. The United Nations states that nearly 25% of the populace suffers from acute hunger. Military conscription threats and unemployment have driven numerous citizens to seek menial jobs abroad.
Experts classify Myanmar as the most land mine-contaminated country, with soldiers planting devices widely considered war crimes. A significant number of casualties have resulted from these land mines.
Following recent elections, the military increased its offensive tactics against rebels, including village destruction and airstrikes. March saw over 240 bombings, resulting in at least 400 deaths.
The military has utilized advanced weaponry supplied by Russia and China, employing fighter jets, helicopters, drones, gyrocopters, and armed paragliders. Meanwhile, rebels struggle without consistent arms supply, and hopes for Western support have dissipated.