Myanmar or Burma

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/22607469

"It's called kyawthuite (cha-too-ite), a tiny, tawny-hued grain weighing just a third of a gram (1.61 carats). On first glance, you might mistaken it for amber or topaz; but the unassuming mineral speck has value beyond measure."

Thailand’s proposed “Associations and Foundations” legislation threatens civil society organizations (CSOs) and media exiles from Myanmar based in the previously tolerant kingdom, according to rights groups.

On November 27, the Shar Htoo Waw Technology team claimed responsibility for a drone attack on the MICC2 hall in Naypyidaw, which occurred during the wedding of the son of General Maung Maung Aye, the junta’s Chief of the General Staff for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The Thai Army has reportedly ordered the withdrawal of United Wa State Army (UWSA) forces from Thai territory in Mae Hong Son, with artillery units on standby to strike if the UWSA does not comply by December 18.

The UWSA is estimated to have up to 30,000 armed soldiers, approximately 10,000 of whom are based in southern Shan State along the border with Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son.

In its statement, the TNLA said it was willing to negotiate an end to the conflict in order to alleviate the suffering of civilians and in consideration of the Chinese government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace.

The group also said it recognised China’s efforts and pledged to continue cooperating with Myanmar’s powerful neighbour to resolve the situation on its border.

Over a million children amongst the 3.4 million displaced due to continuing violence and extreme weather in the country.

UNICEF’s 2024 humanitarian appeal is currently less than 25 per cent funded, even as the needs grow increasingly urgent.

The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) is reinforcing troops, ammunition and other supplies in the northern Shan State capital, Lashio, despite pressure from China to withdraw from the city.

Excerpts from the book Best Laid Plans: The Inside Story of Reform in Aung San Suu Kyi’s Myanmar By Sean Turnell.

Best Laid Plans presents the insider perspective of Sean Turnell, who worked as “Special Economic Consultant” to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on economic reform in the National League for Democracy (NLD) era.