From protest to purpose: How Myanmar’s youth are shaping a democratic future
Source: International IDEA
Youth aged 15–35 make up 33 per cent of Myanmar’s population of 60 million, with a national median age of 27. Despite their demographic significance, youth under 35 won only 8 per cent of seats in the 2020 elections. This underrepresentation contrasts sharply with the central role they play in Myanmar’s political and civic life.
From 2010 to 2020, Myanmar youth saw a glimpse of freedom and opportunity. However, the 2021 coup prompted a new wave of youth-led resistance and civic engagement. For many young people, the 2021 coup was not just a political event; it resonated in a deeply personal way, erasing the glimpse of democracy they had experienced and snatching away their hopes for more opportunities and freedom.
Youth were among the first to revolt against the 2021 coup leaders, calling for the restoration of democracy. They flooded the streets in peaceful protests, expressing their resistance through marches, music, performance art, and digital campaigns. Their peaceful efforts were met with a brutal crackdown by the military junta.
Youth aged 15–35 make up 33 per cent of Myanmar’s population of 60 million, with a national median age of 27. Despite their demographic significance, youth under 35 won only 8 per cent of seats in the 2020 elections. This underrepresentation contrasts sharply with the central role they play in Myanmar’s political and civic life.
From 2010 to 2020, Myanmar youth saw a glimpse of freedom and opportunity. However, the 2021 coup prompted a new wave of youth-led resistance and civic engagement. For many young people, the 2021 coup was not just a political event; it resonated in a deeply personal way, erasing the glimpse of democracy they had experienced and snatching away their hopes for more opportunities and freedom.
Youth were among the first to revolt against the 2021 coup leaders, calling for the restoration of democracy. They flooded the streets in peaceful protests, expressing their resistance through marches, music, performance art, and digital campaigns. Their peaceful efforts were met with a brutal crackdown by the military junta.