The Implementation of Conscription Law by Myanmar’s Military Regime

As Myanmar grapples with ongoing turmoil, the government has declared mandatory military service for all young adults, both men and women.

Following the military’s seizure of power from the civilian government in February 2021, recent months have seen a series of clashes resulting in defeats for the army against ethnic militias and anti-coup forces.

The latest directive, announced on Saturday, stipulates that all men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 must serve a minimum of two years under military command.

Details regarding implementation remain sparse, with the junta indicating that the defense ministry will issue necessary regulations and instructions.

The military has suffered significant setbacks in recent confrontations. Towards the end of the previous year, three ethnic insurgent groups in Shan State, backed by other anti-government factions, gained control over key border crossings and trade routes with China.

Although a conscription law was enacted in 2010, enforcement had been dormant until now. According to the legislation, service terms can extend up to five years during a state of emergency, with non-compliance punishable by imprisonment for the same duration.

The junta declared a state of emergency in 2021, which was recently extended for an additional six months.

Myanmar’s history has been marked by nearly five decades of authoritarian military rule until a transition towards democracy began in 2011. However, on February 1, 2021, the military seized power once again.

Since then, the country has been plagued by unrest and violence, resulting in over a million people displaced and thousands killed.

The military’s performance in recent clashes with ethnic armed groups, characterized by defeats and retreats, has raised doubts and criticism even among its supporters.