Question

Briefly describe the struggle for democracy in Myanmar.

Answer 1

(i) Myanmar earlier known as Burma gained freedom from colonial rule in 1948 and became a democratic country. But the democratic rule ended in 1962 with a military coup.
(ii) In 1990, elections were held for the first time after almost 30 years. The National League of Democracy led by Aung San Suu Kyi won the election but the military leaders of Myanmar refused to step down and did not recognise the election results. Instead the military imprisoned the pro-democracy leaders including Suu Kyi under house arrest.
(iii) Despite house arrest, Suu Kyi continued the campaign for democracy. Her struggle won international recognition and she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.