LettersEnding Myanmar crisis will take people power on a global scale

China and the US working together to stop the violence won’t get to the root of the problem

Instead, platforms such as Telegram can help mobilise global citizens to raise their voices against the military regime

1-MIN READ1-MIN

A demonstrator flashes the three-finger salute during a protest in Mandalay, Myanmar, against the military coup, on April 28. Members of a newly formed government of national unity have told Asean that it will not negotiate with the junta until they release all political prisoners. Photo: EPA-EFE

Published: 12:30am, 30 Apr 2021Updated: 12:30am, 30 Apr 2021

I am writing in response to the editorial, “China and US can help bring peace to streets of Myanmar” (April 3). I am surprised at the underlying logic. Essentially, the idea is: “We are pleased to collaborate in this era of globalisation, but when it comes to political affairs, we better keep silent as it is others’ national affairs.” It seems justifiable for other nations to stand by and watch what is happening in Myanmar with folded arms.

The problem in Myanmar cannot be solved by simply curbing the violence. The problem is linked to issues of ethnicity, military force and coercion, and these cannot be solved by both China and the US putting aside their differences and working together at the Security Council to end killings by the junta and returning the country to the path of democratic transition.

I am not denying the crucial role of the two influential powers in the world. However, it is hard to reach a consensus between countries which hold different interests and concerns. If the violence could be so easily eased by coming together and reaching a negotiated consensus, there would be no disputes in the world.

We have seen companies like Telegram Messenger Inc powering protests by providing a secure platform to disseminate information and to establish huge and encrypted chat groups. An increasing number of companies are emerging to replace the unreliable media.

What we need instead is a much greater collective voice raised against recalcitrant regimes. Through such platforms, global citizens can speak out on injustice and social movements can build strong regional and global ties.

Yeung Pui Kam, Shek Kip Mei