Asian Highway developments linked to conflict and displacement in Karen State

A new report by THWEE Community Development Network, the Karen Environmental and Social Action Network (KESAN), and the Karen Human Rights Group (KHRG) reveals how the brand new Asian Highway in Karen State has been built at the expense of communities who had the misfortune of standing in the way of transnational trade interests […]

Battlefields to refuge: the Salween Peace Park in Burma’s Karen State

MUTRAW DISTRICT, KAREN STATE, BURMA–Can a battlefield be turned into an indigenous-run protected area for scores of endangered species like tigers, gibbons and wild cattle? Yes it can, according to almost 300 local leaders, ethnic soldiers and activists gathered May 23-26 for a consultation in this remote mountainous corner of Burma. They call it the Salween Peace Park, a first of its kind in the world […]

KESAN Statement on the International Day of Action for Rivers and Against Dams

Risking personal safety today in a conflict zone in Burma/Myanmar’s Karen State, hundreds of defenders of the Salween River are rallying to warn the public of the grave dangers of destructive dams. Other rallies will be held on the Thai border andaround the world to mark the International Day of Action for Rivers and Against Dams […]

Protection and Security Concerns in South East Burma/ Myanmar

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The peace process in Burma/Myanmar1 is at a critical juncture from which it could evolve into a transformative national dialogue or splinter into a divisive charade. While hopes for substantive and inclusive discussion about structural injustice remain, ongoing militarisation and attacks by the national armed forces2 are undermining the confidence of ethnic stakeholders. This report seeks to highlight the protection and security concerns of conflict-affected communities. […]