Oliver Slow on the Mindset of Myanmar’s Military
The Myanmar military, also known as the Tatmadaw, has maintained an iron-fisted grip over the country since 1962. However, in recent years a wave of political and economic reforms has begun to challenge the military’s authority. One of the most prominent voices in this effort is Dr. Htin Aung, a former army major general and now leader of the National Democratic Front. In an interview with Oliver Slow for the BBC, he discussed the importance of changing the mindset of the military leadership.
Military Reform
Dr. Htin Aung believes that the Tatmadaw must undergo a major reform in order to transition from a military-led government to a civilian-led democracy. This, he argues, must begin with a shift in the mindset of the military leadership. According to him, “The key is to move from a mindset of control to one of engagement. The military must learn to listen to the people and respond to their concerns.” He believes that this shift can be achieved through dialogue, education and training.
Political and Economic Reforms
In addition to military reform, Dr. Htin Aung believes that political and economic reforms are also necessary for Myanmar to move forward. He points out that, “Political and economic reforms are essential in order to create an environment where the people of Myanmar can prosper. We must create an environment where civil society can thrive, and where the economy can grow.” He also emphasizes the importance of protecting human rights, as well as fighting corruption and promoting good governance.
International Community
Dr. Htin Aung believes that it is also important for the international community to play an active role in Myanmar’s transition. He argues, “The international community must continue to support the process of reform and to provide assistance where needed. The international community must also ensure that the process of reform is transparent and accountable.” He believes that this will help to ensure that the process of reform is successful and that the people of Myanmar can enjoy a brighter future.
Education and Training
Education and training are essential for the military to understand the importance of reform. Dr. Htin Aung believes that the military must be trained to understand the importance of democracy and to respect the rule of law. He also believes that education and training can help the military to understand the importance of human rights and to understand the need for economic and political reforms.
Civil-Military Relations
Dr. Htin Aung also believes that the relationship between the military and the civilian population must be improved. He argues, “Civil-military relations must be improved in order to ensure that the military respects the rule of law and the rights of the people. This can be achieved through dialogue, education and training.” He believes that this will help to ensure that the military is more accountable and responsive to the needs of the people.
Civil Society
Dr. Htin Aung believes that civil society must also play an important role in the transition. He argues that civil society must be allowed to hold the military accountable and to ensure that the military respects human rights. He also believes that civil society must be empowered to promote economic and political reforms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Htin Aung believes that the military must undergo a major reform in order to transition from a military-led government to a civilian-led democracy. This, he argues, must begin with a shift in the mindset of the military leadership, and can be achieved through dialogue, education and training. He also believes that the international community, civil-military relations, and civil society must all play an important role in this process. Only then, he argues, can the people of Myanmar enjoy a brighter future.
