The upcoming peace conference in Myanmar, scheduled for January 8, 2025, aims to address the ongoing civil conflict that has plagued the nation since the military coup on February 1, 2021. The event, organized by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Myanmar, will feature key religious leaders, including Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, who has been vocal about the need for an immediate cessation of violence and a focus on civilian protection.
Since the coup, Myanmar has experienced widespread unrest, leading to a humanitarian crisis with over 3.3 million people displaced and significant human rights violations reported. The junta, supported by China and Russia, has faced mounting losses against various ethnic armed groups that now control more than half the country.
Cardinal Bo has emphasized the importance of reconciliation, stating that it requires a commitment to love and build beyond the pain and destruction. He noted that true peace entails justice, security, and dignity for all citizens, urging the international community to support Myanmar's youth as they play a crucial role in shaping the future.
Key discussions during the conference are expected to focus on strategies for peacebuilding, the protection of vulnerable populations, and the establishment of a framework for justice and accountability. Observers will be particularly attentive to any commitments made by the military government regarding the treatment of political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains imprisoned under various charges.
The conference comes amid skepticism surrounding the junta's promises of elections in 2025, with many questioning the feasibility of a unified Myanmar given the ongoing fragmentation along ethnic lines. As the situation evolves, the global community will be watching closely for signs of progress or further escalation in the conflict.