THE United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is scheduled to convene for a “Summit of the Future” in New York on 22-23 September 2024. The outcome of this meeting of world leaders will be the adoption of a “Pact for the Future”. During the past year, the details of the Pact have been discussed among the 193 UN member-states under the co-facilitation of Germany (representing the developed countries of the North) and Namibia (representing the developing countries of the South). The objective of the Pact is “to safeguard the future for present and coming generations”.
India’s approach towards the UN’s Summit of the Future was articulated by Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in 2023. He emphasized the need to demonstrate “genuine solidarity” to generate “real trust” and integrate the “sentiment of the Global South” in preparing for the Summit. During the discussions in the UNGA in May 2024, India cautioned that if these essential elements were missing from the process, the Summit of the Future would become a “Summit of the Past”, condemning the United Nations “to a perilous vicious cycle of fading into irrelevance”.
The Global South consists of developing country member-states of the UNGA, many of them former colonies of European powers in 1945 who did not negotiate the UN Charter. Their membership in the United Nations began with the historic process of decolonization that began after India’s independence from British colonial rule in August 1947.
The Global South became a majority in the UNGA, propelled by the Decolonization Resolution of December 1960. The first visible expression of solidarity of the Global South in multilateralism was the successful adoption by a two-thirds majority vote of UNGA resolutions in December 1963 to amend the UN Charter. These amendments resulted in expanding the representation of the Global South in the UN Security Council (UNSC), which controls decisions on peace and security, and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which controls UNGA decision-making on socioeconomic issues.
Since 1960, the process of consolidation and prioritization of Global South priorities has been marked by several negotiating landmarks in multilateral institutions. This was due to the solidarity and sentiment of the Global South, based on trust in the effective and equitable functioning of the interlinked post-war multilateral system.
Among the Global South’s achievements have been the creation of the non-aligned movement in September 1961 which today brings together 120 member-states in the UNGA; the establishment of the Group of 77 (or G-77) in 1964 which today represents 134 out of 193 member-states in the UNGA; the creation of the UN Development Programme (UNDP) by the UNGA in 1965; the adoption of the G-77 Charter of Algiers in 1967 calling for a New International Economic Order; the Decision on Differential and More Preferable Treatment (also known as the Enabling Clause) for developing countries in the GATT (precursor of the World Trade Organization) in 1979; the UNGA Declaration on the Right to Development (DRTD) as an inalienable human right in 1986; and the Common but Differentiated Responsibility (CBDR) provision of international law, codified by the UN Conference on Environment and Development in 1992.
Through patient and forward-looking negotiations in the UNGA between 1960-2015, the Global South/G-77 has succeeded in bringing “development” into the mainstream of multilateralism. The unanimous adoption of Agenda 2030 by the UNGA in September 2015, with its 17 Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDGs), is an acknowledgement of this fact. Agenda 2030 converges the common interests of the Global North and Global South into an integrated human-centric framework in which peace, security, and development are interlinked. This is the sentiment that the Global South seeks to integrate into the vision of the Summit of the Future.
The UN’s SDG Summit in 2023, held to assess the implementation of Agenda 2030, warned that numerous crises since 2015 have been derailing this vision. Unless checked, these can have a deleterious impact on the Global South, particularly on the application of new digital technologies in a human-centric manner to accelerate the implementation of Agenda 2030. The Summit of the Future’s consideration of a Global Digital Compact requires special attention to the sentiments of the Global South in order to bridge existing digital divides enumerated during the UNGA review of the UN’s Tunis Agenda on an Information Society in December 2015.
The Global South’s focus during the Summit of the Future must be to seek effective multilateralism on the ground. A decision to convene a UN General Conference, as provided for in Article 109 of the UN Charter, to review the UN Charter in September 2025 would be an appropriate way to mark the 80th anniversary of multilateralism by integrating the aspirations of the Global South.
The concept of sovereignty has deep roots in the history of human civilization. In ancient times, rulers such as kings and emperors claimed supreme authority over their lands, but the modern understanding of sovereignty began to take shape in Europe during the late Middle Ages. The turning point came with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years’ War. This treaty established the principle that each state possessed the right to govern its territory and people without external interference. It marked the birth of the modern international system, where states were recognized as independent and equal units.Philosophers like Jean Bodin in the sixteenth century defined sovereignty as the absolute and perpetual power of a commonwealth. Later, thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes emphasized the necessity of a sovereign authority to maintain order and prevent chaos. Over time, sovereignty became the foundation of international law, diplomacy, and the recognition of nation-states.Today, the idea remains central: sovereignty ensures that countries can make their own laws, protect their borders, and preserve their identity. Although globalization and international organizations sometimes challenge this principle, sovereignty continues to symbolize independence and self‑determination in the modern world.Mutual Respect for Sovereignty in Human SocietySovereignty is not only a principle of state authority but also a moral foundation for peaceful coexistence among nations and peoples. In human society, the recognition of sovereignty means that every community, regardless of size or power, has the right to govern itself and preserve its identity. When nations respect each other’s sovereignty, they create conditions for stability, cooperation, and trust. Without such respect, conflicts, interventions, and domination often arise, leading to suffering and instability.An important example can be seen in the relationship between Switzerland and the international community. For centuries, Switzerland has maintained its sovereignty through neutrality. Even during major global conflicts such as the World Wars, other nations recognized and respected Switzerland’s independent status. This mutual respect allowed Switzerland to avoid invasion, protect its people, and contribute to humanitarian efforts. The case demonstrates that sovereignty is not only about independence but also about reciprocal recognition. Nations that honour each other’s sovereignty can coexist peacefully, even in times of global crisis.In today’s interconnected world, respecting sovereignty remains vital. Globalization, international organizations, and economic interdependence sometimes challenge state autonomy, but the principle of sovereignty ensures that cooperation does not become coercion. For example, when countries join the United Nations, they agree to work together while still maintaining their sovereign rights. This balance allows nations to collaborate on issues like climate change, health, and security without losing their independence.Ultimately, sovereignty must be respected by all nations and all people. It is the cornerstone of equality in international relations. By honouring sovereignty, humanity affirms the dignity of every community and ensures that cooperation is built on consent rather than force.Contemporary Challenges to SovereigntyIn the modern world, the principle of sovereignty is often challenged, as states sometimes fail to respect the independence of others. These violations do not arise randomly; they are rooted in deeper structural problems and global dynamics. Understanding these sources helps explain why sovereignty remains fragile despite being a cornerstone of international law.One major source is geopolitical rivalry. Powerful nations often intervene in weaker states to expand influence, secure strategic resources, or establish military dominance. For example, competition over oil, natural gas, or trade routes has led to interventions that undermine the sovereignty of smaller countries. Such actions are justified under the language of “national interest”, but they erode the principle of mutual respect.Another source is economic dependency and globalization. Developing nations that rely heavily on foreign investment, loans, or aid may face external pressure to adopt policies that serve the interests of donor countries or international institutions. This economic leverage can limit a nation’s ability to make independent decisions, effectively compromising sovereignty.Humanitarian intervention and security concerns also play a role. In cases of civil war, human rights abuses, or terrorism, powerful states or coalitions may justify military or political involvement in another country’s affairs. While these actions are often framed as protecting global peace or human dignity, they raise questions about whether sovereignty can be overridden by international responsibility.Additionally, technological and cyber influence has become a new frontier. Cyberattacks, digital surveillance, and manipulation of information across borders allow states to interfere in the internal affairs of others without traditional military force. This invisible intrusion challenges the very idea of territorial control upon which sovereignty is built.In addition, historical disputes and unresolved borders continue to generate sovereignty conflicts. Colonial legacies, ethnic divisions, and contested territories often lead to disputes where one state disregards the sovereignty of another. These conflicts remind us that sovereignty is not only a legal principle but also a fragile social contract shaped by history.Sovereignty violations in the contemporary era stem from a combination of geopolitical ambition, economic dependency, humanitarian claims, technological intrusion, and historical disputes. These sources reveal that sovereignty is constantly negotiated rather than guaranteed. For global peace and justice, nations must strive to balance legitimate international concerns with respect for the independence and dignity of all states.Suggestions for Addressing Sovereignty ConflictsTo reduce and eventually resolve conflicts that arise from violations of sovereignty, humanity must adopt practices rooted in respect, cooperation, and justice. Several key approaches can guide this effort:Dialogue and diplomacy: Nations should prioritize negotiation and peaceful dialogue over military or coercive measures. Diplomatic channels allow states to resolve disputes while preserving mutual respect.Strengthening international law: Global institutions such as the United Nations must reinforce rules that protect sovereignty, ensuring that interventions are lawful and limited to extreme cases like genocide or mass atrocities.Mutual recognition: States should acknowledge the equal dignity of all nations, regardless of size or power, and avoid policies that exploit weaker countries.Economic fairness: Reducing dependency through fair trade, sustainable development, and equitable financial systems helps prevent stronger nations from using economic leverage to undermine sovereignty.Cultural respect: Recognizing the unique traditions and identities of each nation fosters harmony and discourages domination.Technological ethics: In the digital age, nations must agree on norms that prevent cyber intrusions and protect sovereignty in cyberspace.In brief, sovereignty is the foundation of independence and equality among nations. When conflicts arise from its violation, the path to peace lies not in domination but in cooperation. Humanity must cultivate habits of dialogue, fairness, and respect, ensuring that global interaction strengthens rather than weakens sovereignty. By honouring this principle, nations can build a world where independence and dignity are preserved, and where cooperation is based on consent rather than coercion.gnlm
Behind job advertisements that claim no education, no professional skills, and no hard work are required; behind claims that a person has won a phone or an air conditioner in lucky draws; behind the attractive images on social media and the allure of sweet words; and behind various online gambling games – there are many complex stories of lies and deception.Basically, scams are often tailored to people’s needs: offering work to those who need it, offering money to those in need, fabricating stories of beauty for those drawn to it, extorting money from those with financial power, and using many other schemes to deceive people. In the end, victims’ lives are disrupted, and they suffer both physical and mental harm. At the same time, fraudsters exploit the lives of honest citizens to obtain money through these deceptive schemes. Under the guise of job opportunities, the victims’ futures are stolen.Many of those working in online gambling and money laundering operations are themselves victims of fraud, including human trafficking, and are reported to work 12 to 14 hours a day. Many victims find it difficult to escape and effectively become trapped in money laundering operations. They typically engage in various online fraudulent activities, such as investment scams, online gambling, lending schemes, and extortion by posing as a romantic partner, generating billions of US dollars in revenue each year for the leaders of the online financial fraud industry.Many foreign nationals involved in online money fraud have illegally entered Myanmar through border routes from neighbouring countries and have committed online fraud, online gambling, and other crimes in the Maehtawthalay-KK Park area of Myawady Township, Kayin State. About 90 per cent of these foreign nationals who commit online gambling and other crimes enter Myanmar via Thailand, with most of them crossing the border illegally.“Most of the materials used in the KK Park – about 90 per cent – come from Thailand. They don’t use any materials from Myanmar. Everything, from electronic devices to personal items, that comes through illegal crossings is imported from Thailand. These illegal routes are not for the benefit of our ethnic people or the country; they serve the interests of armed groups,” said a local from Inkyin Myaing village, located near the KK Park area. Foreign nationals who enter illegally in this way often use border areas in underdeveloped, lawless, and remote regions as bases for fraudulent activities.“Our area is a region controlled by armed groups with a low rule of law, so when there are clashes with the Tatmadaw, there are things we must avoid. If people cross to their side from this side, Thai soldiers set up a camp. They tell us not to go anywhere else and to stay in one place. I have never received international support to evade the fighting. Some people do, but it is not helpful. For example, they say they provide rice packets, blankets, and shirts—but they are used. When they give these items, they also record the displaced people as they cross the Thaungyin River. There is no effective system in place. There are refugee camps for people evading the fighting that receive international support, and the authorities show these people to the international community to obtain aid. It is like asking for rice by showcasing monkeys. We, the people of Myanmar, need to be aware of these things. We know this because we have experienced it firsthand,” said a local from Inkyin Myaing village.The recent KK Park incident, which occurred in the Myanmar-Thailand border area of Myawady, has become a hot topic in Southeast Asian countries. Media outlets have emphasized the need for effective action. The Myanmar government is continuously investigating and identifying foreign nationals who have committed telecom fraud, online gambling, and other crimes in the Maehtawthalay (KK Park) area of Myawady, Kayin State.Such investigations and deportation procedures are being carried out systematically in accordance with the law, and the foreign nationals are being transferred to their respective countries. In addition, the buildings in KK Park where they lived are being demolished. Similarly, the routes used by armed terrorists involved in illegal trade are being blocked and destroyed.Meanwhile, media reports have revealed that online fraud is spreading not only in Myanmar but also across Southeast Asia. According to these reports, 88 Chinese nationals were arrested in Indonesia on 29 August on suspicion of online crimes. Similarly, in Thailand, a mid-August crackdown on online financial fraud led to the arrest of a Myanmar woman, several Chinese nationals, and Thai nationals, as well as the seizure of luxury cars, real estate deeds, and cash linked to the telecom fraud.Therefore, relevant governments in Southeast Asian countries, including the Myanmar government, are working together to take urgent action in response to the rise in online crime in the region. The national government’s efforts to implement such measures, as well as the Myanmar government’s cooperation with government agencies in neighbouring countries to identify and suppress these activities, have been reported in state-owned newspapers.“We welcome the government’s continued crackdown on telecom fraud. The land at KK Park used to be our farmland and gardens. They bought it from local farmers for a lot of money, and then they built buildings on it. I’ve heard that after construction, it’s like a city. You don’t know what kinds of businesses they run. You can’t see them, and it’s not easy to get in or out. There are big walls and CCTV cameras, and security is tight. Many of us locals have never been there. Those who have done manual labour there say it’s hard to get in and out, so we avoid it. They say illegal gambling takes place there. We want to do legitimate manufacturing work in our area so that locals will have job opportunities and live comfortably,” said a resident of Maehtawthalay village.The government is now taking effective, lawful action against online criminal gangs that pose a significant threat to the country and its citizens. To support investigations and enforcement efforts, inspections and clearances have reportedly been carried out not only in Kayin State but also in northeastern and eastern Shan State.“All the buildings in KK Park will be demolished to prevent further online fraud, online gambling, and other crimes. There are also illegal gates, which are being removed and cleared. We are working to take legal action against everyone involved,” said an official.To date, 9,536 foreign nationals have been systematically deported to their respective countries via Thailand in line with legal procedures, and the remaining 1,279 foreign nationals are ready to be transferred to their countries.“In areas where the rule of law is weak, they use our land and rely on the Thaungyin River to do this. Only when the rule of law is firmly established will telecom fraud disappear. That is why we want a strong rule of law and good governance in our region. Then it will be easier to carry out other work. We will also benefit from better education, healthcare, and regional development. I hope for a situation like this,” said a resident of Inkyin Myaing village.Therefore, the public must be aware of and avoid the fraudulent money-making schemes of online criminal gangs, which involve various types of fraud, incentives, and content, and must cooperate with the processes carried out by the government in accordance with the law.(Translated by TH)
Our country, Myanmar, shares a long border area of land and water territories with neighbouring countries due to geographical conditions. Taking advantage of these border areas, unscrupulous businesspersons and the organizations opposing the government traffic commodities as illegal trade activities through illegal entry and exit crossings.These illegal trade activities hinder the economic development of the State and the progress of socioeconomic improvement of the people. It causes the loss of revenue for the State, harming the operation of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at home. Consequently, such an act affects the production and employment opportunities of the State and ethnic entrepreneurs. That is why it can be seen that people experience loss of job opportunities and an increasing number of unemployed. The people are facing the impacts of the inflation rate of currency and rising prices of commodities based to booming illegal trade activities. Furthermore, the illegal trade can affect the measures of security and the rule of law being implemented by the State. As such, it is necessary to effectively and clearly combat illegal trade activities as a national duty.The State Administration Council has reconstituted the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee since December 2021. Under the guidance of the steering committee, illegal trade eradication task forces were set up in regions and states, while the Customs Department has been taking a leading role in the OSS in cooperation with relevant departments in prevention, seizure and checking functions against the illegal trade activities.Despite carrying out restrictive prevention and seizing, illegal trade activities have not disappeared yet. Different amounts of trade volume and value can be seen in comparing with the trade data obtained from neighbouring countries. Unscrupulous businesspersons are seeking various ways and means to commit illegal trade activities.Currently, a serious situation is found where foodstuffs and personal goods labelled with fake trademarks are being sold in the market at home. It is very dangerous for the people who use and consume foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicines labelled with fake trademarks without any recommendations of health authorities. Moreover, the distribution and sales of these domestically-manufactured foodstuffs and personal goods labelled with fake trademarks can harm the long-term interests of MSME businesses.It has been observed that unscrupulous businesspersons are taking advantage of the current situation along the country’s border routes to intensify illegal trade activities. At the same time, it supports illegal online gambling operations in border areas. According to bilateral trade data and records of seizures, these findings have been confirmed. It is therefore necessary to effectively prevent and control illegal activities along border routes, and illegal trade, trafficking, and sales of goods on social media platforms must not be overlooked.The booming illegal trade and trafficking through the online platform can result in loss of revenue for the State. Trading of low-quality commodities, foodstuffs, cosmetics and medicines without recommendations of health authorities can harm the health and socioeconomic life of the people. As such, it can be said that these illegal trade activities become a very dangerous challenge for the State and the people.According to information from the illegal trade eradication task forces, seizures have included not only motorcycles, motor vehicles, and machinery, but also narcotic drugs and prohibited chemicals. Although illegal trade activities have been widespread, the situation has gradually come under control. Illegal trade causes losses and damage to every perspective — public health, social and economic development, and national progress. Therefore, it is essential for all citizens to actively participate in preventing and combating such activities effectively. To ensure that illegal trade is completely eradicated, collective efforts are required. At the same time, extensive public awareness campaigns must be carried out so that the entire population understands the need to prevent and curb these illegal activities.At present, the Illegal Trade Eradication Steering Committee, formed by the State and illegal trade eradication task forces, are effectively preventing and combatting illegal trade activities. On the other hand, State-owned newspapers and FM radios mention telephone numbers and e-mail addresses for people to inform the authorities about illegal trade activities. The State presents deserved rewards to dutiful people for their information about the illegal trade activities. As such, people are urged to actively participate with a patriotic spirit and national unity in efforts to eliminate illegal trade for the sake of national development and the socioeconomic progress of citizens. People are also encouraged to cooperate in the eradication of illegal trade by making use of the rewards granted by the State for providing information.Translated.GNLM
The scam centres along the Myanmar eastern borders were definitely one of the most newsworthy issues of 2025. But with the Myanmar government cleaning these up at rocket speed and EAOs caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, the supply of scams could become more decentralized over the next few years. Their operations have become more mobile and agile. The number of staff involved also became akin to terror cells, staffed with just a few people with lots of technologies and AI. The supply of scams might not drop, but it would definitely become more distributed, with scammers being stationed in various cities and towns within the poorer ASEAN countries.Regardless of supply, the demand is on the side of the righteous. With more and more people becoming aware of scams of various kinds and major news networks doing investigative work along the Mae Sot-Myawady border, the chances of the general public getting conned are now significantly lower than they were a couple of years ago. Word of mouth is also contributing towards the fight against scams. Furthermore, how many times could you possibly scam one person? Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me! Or, that person has already run out of lifelong savings to be scammed upon. Hence, the demand for scams is undoubtedly going south as we write this, and eventually, it will not occupy the top spot in crime charts even as the scammers devise new ways to dupe people using technology and AI.So, the crimes of swindling will dwindle as we straddle a quarter of this century.It’s great news for everyone, then, isn’t it?Based on our forecast of the times ahead, there might be more serious issues brewing around the corner.The reasoning is simple… Even though the scam centres are nearly gone, the governance and law and order misalignment in the border areas has not been addressed at all. These regions, Wa, Koh Kant, some parts of Shan, Kayin, Kachin, Chin, Nagaland, are totally not under the control of the Myanmar government or military (Tatmadaw). The EAOs operating there are more interested in enriching themselves whichever way possible, rather than building infrastructure for the inhabitants of the land. The drug lords, crime lords, warlords, etc., are still thriving over there by currying favours with the barbarian leaders of EAOs. Hence, the ecosystem is so oriented towards these regions to become the epicentre of the next tsunami of global transgression.Drugs are openly sold along the streets of Phakant in Kachin State. Average youths in the city of Mogok, near northern Shan, are addicted to one kind of drug or another. The border town of Tachilek, being the major town in the Golden Triangle, is also flooded with drugs of various kinds that the residents there could not even address the defences against the regularity of major floods that inundate the ground floors of almost all houses in the city (happened 3x this year alone). In another checkpoint city of Myawaddy, clashes between Tatmadaw and EAOs or between EAOs have become so common that people are only interested in making quick money, i.e., via engaging in an abundance of vice. Further down south along the Three Pagoda pass, the sole trade across the border seems to be in synthetic drugs. We do not know which way the drugs are heading from there, but stats actually reveal some trends.Even in cities such as Maw La Myine, the capital of Mon State, the only profitable businesses to do seem to be synthetic drugs, gambling and smuggling of various stuff, including human beings. We personally heard the direct account from the youth and businessmen over there, who would regularly go to ‘Hi’ rooms once a week at least, as long as they got money in their pockets.Out of our motherland, the latest statistics in Malaysia show a 32.5 per cent increase in reported drug users and addicts from 2023 to 2024. Its DPM said, “Drug abuse in Malaysia has reached a ‹critical level’ and threatens public safety, economic stability, and social structures”. Australia has reported A$450 million more drug seizures in 2024 compared to the previous year. Thailand also reported a nearly 50 per cent increase in drug-related cases in 2024.In Myanmar, too, the value of drug seizures has gone up significantly. Gone were the days when the carriers were caught with a hundred thousand dollars or so worth of drugs. Recent synthetic drug seizures were each in excess of $1million for each capture.In its 2024 Annual Report, the International Narcotics Control Board finds that,Illicit synthetic drugs are spreading, and consumption is increasingMore coordinated action by Governments and others is needed to tackle the problemSynthetic drugs could overtake some plant-based drugs in the near futureThe total and individual value of drug busts have gone up, even though the costs of production of synthetic drugs have gone down, which undoubtedly leads to the conclusion that the volume of drugs shipped or transported must have gone up exponentially.Synthetic drugs are easily manufactured with little technical or scientific knowledge, and there is a reduced need for labour or land for cultivation, unlike for plant-based drugs such as Cocaine or Heroin. The manufacturing station can be located anywhere, and the same equipment can be used for different synthetic outputs. Traffickers can shift manufacturing, movement and marketing tactics to keep operating costs down and profit margins up, as well as to reduce risks of interdiction.As synthetic drugs are more potent (some even inducing zombie-like conditions), traffickers can send smaller consignments, which are easier to conceal and sometimes use drones and other new trafficking techniques. Although global demand for plant-based drugs is still higher than the current supply of synthetic drugs, seizures of synthetic substances have already begun to outpace seizures of some plant-based drugs.Along the border regions of Myanmar, as long as the EAOs turned a blind eye, every household compound or basement could be a synthetic drug lab, churning out thousands of tablets per day. And if they can turn a blind eye to the scams that cheat the poor and gullible without an ounce of conscience, why would they bother interfering when they are producing and exporting some drugs! After all, they have been one of the world’s top exporters of Heroin before.I have personally spoken to one prominent business person from Kengtung in eastern Shan. He said the largest factories that supply the world with synthetics were located around the centre of Shan State, under the control of the Wa and Shan State Armies. The individual labs of ‘aspiring’ entrepreneurs are in empty land plots just on the outskirts of major towns and cities in these self-administered regions.The difference between synthetics and scams is such that the latter is not additive. The demand for scams is diminishing while the demand for synthetics is growing exponentially, as the supply has exploded and prices have dropped. Combined with the addiction factor, we are looking at a worldwide disaster within a relatively short number of years.Just like scam centres, lack of jurisdiction alignment would come into play, resulting in years of inaction, blame game and finger pointing, while the world youth succumbs to the synthetic enslavement and loss of productivity and economic output.We need to start working together now; ASEAN, RCEP, Interpol, INCB, etc., to ensure that the problem is nib in the bud. We don’t want another deja vu cataclysm like the scam centres, do we??GNLM
(Continued from yesterday)https://www.gnlm.com.mm/drug-economy-network-of-the-aa-terrorist-group-and-the-perils-of-terrorist-attacks-part-i/Drug-trafficking connecting with NUG-affiliated PDFsThe AA’s primary drug trafficking routes typically involve the route to Rakhine State via Shan State (North)-Mandalay-Yangon route by water and the route to Rakhine State via Mandalay-Meiktila-Magway-Padan by land. Due to increased arrests along these routes in 2024, the AA group is connecting with NUG/PDF groups, who are also hand in glove with it, and trafficking illicit drugs that are produced from Shan State (North) and Kachin State to Rakhine State in 2025 through PDF-operated areas in Sagaing Region and Chin State.Consequently, a news report widely circulated that three PDF members were arrested with 3 million methamphetamine pills and 100 kg of heroin, estimated at over 9 billion Kyats (USD 2.5 million) by a Chin armed group in Haka Township on 8 July 2025. In fact, the drugs belonging to the AA group were transported by the PDFs, receiving a fee. It was revealed that the drug trafficking PDF members were from the Yinmabin District PDF group, under the NUG, and that they were trafficking drugs to raise funds for their group’s survival because the NUG does not provide support to PDF terrorist groups. They had previously succeeded in trafficking drugs three times, but were arrested on their 4th attempt.This incident clearly demonstrates that the PDF groups under the NUG are emulating the AA group’s drug trafficking model and operating it as a business to sustain their groups. Furthermore, the AA’s drug distribution network has spread widely throughout Myanmar, shifting from the transport of drugs in small quantities frequently to the transport of drugs in large quantities less frequently through the areas they control. They themselves conduct drug-trafficking and collect tax revenue by allowing the drug-trade in the areas they operate. The drugs trafficked and distributed by the AA are being used extensively not only among young people in various villages and towns but also among members of armed insurgent groups.Specifically, the confiscated dead bodies of AA members during battles in the Rakhine State and other evidence indicate that AA leaders often administer narcotics to their subordinates to endure the hardships of battle. Similarly, as PDF terrorists are also following suit, a market for psychotropic drugs is taking place within armed insurgent groups.The AA’s foreign market for illicit drugsThe AA’s foreign market for illicit drugs extends from Bangladesh and Malaysia to Western countries and the Middle East. The incident that demonstrates this fact is the arrest of 13 members of a narco-gang between 5 and 14 August 2025, along with 21.8 million amphetamine pills, 5,614.2 kg of ICE (crystal meth), and 1,899 kg of Ketamine, estimated at 257 billion Kyats (USD 71.4 million). The offenders plotted to conduct drug trafficking to Malaysia and Bangladesh.In this case, major-level ranked Ko Yay (Rakhine), the AA’s customs head stationed in Wan Hai and Win Khine (under identification of his rank) living in Myebon of Rakhine State are members of the AA group. Likewise, Tun Thein (Rakhine), living in Yangon and responsible for storing and distributing narcotics, and Kyaw Swar Win (Rakhine) from Kungyangon, who is responsible for trafficking drugs to Malaysia, are also AA’s supply in charge masquerading as civilians. Kyaw Han, the secretary and finance in charge of the AA group, operates behind the scenes.In terms of the AA group’s drug economy network, AA members themselves transport, distribute, and sell narcotics at home and abroad. In situations like this, the group tasks individuals as in charge in the insurgent-controlled areas and assigns the business duty as well as supply duty to the Rakhine people masquerading as civilians in the areas where risks of arrest are high. The AA group not only smuggles its own narcotics but also provides safe passage for the narcotics of other armed groups through its areas, in return for tax collection.According to the statements of those arrested in this case, drug-dealers made drug-trafficking from Wan Hai to Bangladesh and Malaysia through Myebon Township, where the AA group operates in Rakhine State. Once the drug-trafficking is conducted, the AA group would receive a total of 3,460.0 million Kyats as the tax revenue: 654.0 million Kyats for 21.8 million amphetamine pills at a rate of 300,000 Kyats per 10,000 pills, 2,807.0 million Kyats for 5,614 kg of ICE (crystal meth) at a rate of 500,000 Kyats per kilo of ICE. The AA group does not need to invest in drug-dealing itself, but instead has a representative in the drug-producing area and a representative in Rakhine State, and has its group’s civilian support in charge along the drug-carrying route, collecting net tax revenue for the drugs passing through its area.Accordingly, it is evident that the AA group is heavily involved in both directly trading narcotics to meet its group’s financial needs and in allowing other narco-gangs to transit its area to collect substantial tax revenue.More apparent evidence is that plenty of psychotropic drugs distributed and sold through villages and towns in Rakhine State, where the AA group operates, can be easily purchased in refugee camps within Bangladesh. This point can be clearly seen in the 2021 report of the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) in Bangladesh. According to the report, there are approximately eight million drug users in Bangladesh, and the DNC manages to seize over 50 million psychotropic tablets annually. The seized psychotropic tablets were trafficked into Bangladesh via villages and towns controlled by the AA in the Rakhine State. The seizures reveal the involvement of AA members themselves in drug trafficking. Hence, there have been undeniable eyewitnesses and documents that the AA armed terrorist group is extensively carrying out drug trafficking operations not only within the country but also to foreign countries.Mutual impact between the drug economy and acts of terrorismThe AA group’s drug economy network is connected both domestically and internationally. Revenue from narcotics has strengthened their arsenal of weapons and ammunition. As continuous battles occur, they are increasingly engaging in drug trafficking to replenish diminished arms and ammunition. Similarly, drug trafficking is causing more lawless acts of terrorism. To carry out more armed terrorist acts, they are increasingly pursuing drug trafficking as their primary business. The AA group’s armed approach, fuelled by drug revenue and manpower/weaponry, has escalated battles. Due to acts of terrorism, stability and peace in Rakhine State have been destroyed, and the public’s social life is declining.Undeniable acts of terrorismTo ensure its survival, the AA group has indoctrinated its members with narrow-minded racial views through Rakhine racism. Consequently, the AA troops have been observed and heard to be brutally committing racially and religiously motivated violent attacks against other ethnic groups and tribes within Rakhine State. The recent widely reported incident in international news media, where approximately 600 Bengali people, including children and women, were brutally murdered in Htan Shauk Khan village, Buthidaung Township, in May 2024, exemplifies the AA group’s inhumane acts of terrorism.Similarly, in June 2024, a sub-group of the AA terrorist group, led by Tun Wai, groundlessly murdered a total of 357 Muslims in Buthidaung: 87 men from 5 wards in the town, 135 men from Sein Nyin Pyar village, 95 from Nyaung Chaung village, and 40 from Taung Bazar village, accusing them of being associated with the government forces. The AA group, believing in Rakhine chauvinism, has not only forcibly recruited Bengali people, but also Chin and Mro people living in Maungdaw and Paletwa townships, and has also been known to commit bullying and killings. In December 2024, over 90 Mro people, including over 30 children under the age of 18 from Thittonenar Khwason village in Maungtaw Township, were forcibly abducted, and their families are worried as they have not been heard from so far.Specifically, the AA group frequently launches drone attacks against Bengali villages in Buthidaung and Maungtaw regions, forcing Bengali people to flee as displaced persons. Similarly, it commits indiscriminate killings of innocent civilians in Paletwa, Pauktaw, Minbya, MraukU, and Kyauktaw Townships, and forces them to attend military training and collect money by extortion from those willing to have an exemption from military training.The aforementioned drug trafficking network and terrorist acts of the AA terrorist group constitute crimes that no country in the world can accept. Although the group vehemently denies involvement in drug trafficking and terrorism, undeniable eyewitnesses and documents clearly exist.Call for action to the international communityThe issue of anti-narcotics has been a challenge for successive governments, and drug-trafficking is the main source of income for the survival of terrorist insurgents under the name of ethnic armed groups, and is also related to the prolongation of internal armed conflict. Therefore, the State Administration Council government has given special priority to drug prevention and suppression, and has eradicated and combated it with its own resources without international assistance. Even though it is actively cooperating with international organizations to be more effective and successful, it is unfortunate to see and hear that some foreign governments and anti-narcotics organizations are turning a blind eye to drug dealings and acts of terrorism by armed drug lord AA groups and NUG-affiliated PDFs and their acts of terrorism against innocent civilians.Therefore, this is a call for action to international anti-narcotics organizations that it is required to combat armed narco-gangs like the AA terrorist group under the name of ethnic armed group, which is heavily involved in drug-trafficking, to more effectively suppress the drug-production, drug-trafficking and drug-dealing encountered by Myanmar, and to effectively prevent acts of terrorism that are strengthened by the drug trade.GNLM
By Aung ShinnFirst and foremost, it is informed in advance that the information presented in this article does not consist of biased accusations or fabricated facts.This article will highlight an armed terrorist group that dreams of achieving its racial prejudices and political ambitions through armed means, and which is heavily involved in the drug trade for its survival, threatening the entire human race in the world.The AA group is an armed terrorist group comprised mostly of Rakhine people. However, the public already knows that neither all Rakhine people accept the AA group, nor does it represent Rakhine State and the Rakhine ethnic people. Undeniable evidence indicates that the AA group is indeed a terrorist armed group led by a self-serving group of Rakhine individuals, who are trampling on the Rakhine people and Rakhine State, with extremist racial sentiments, destroying the peace and stability of Rakhine State, and massively engaging in drug trafficking.Evil-natured drug lordThe AA group, which emerged in 2009 in the KIA-controlled area, was formed with Rakhine people who had arrived in Kachin State. To equip its members with weapons, the AA group has heavily traded amphetamine pills, ICE, and heroin, not only within the country but also to foreign countries where large profits can be made, following the examples of its godfathers, the KIA, the UWSA and the MNDAA groups. Since its inception, the AA has lacked strong businesses and has not received sufficient tax revenue from the impoverished Rakhine ethnic people. Therefore, it relies primarily on income from drug trafficking to purchase rations, weapons, ammunition and fuel for its members.The AA’s drug trade has expanded its market abroad. The AA group is working with international drug lords in a network-like manner, involving the smuggling of precursor chemicals, drug production, transport and storage of drugs, distribution within the country, and coordination for drug trade abroad.Drug seizures involving AA group membersFrom 2016 to 21 July 2025, there were 24 instances of seizures of narcotics and weapons/ammunition involving members of the AA terrorist insurgent group. During the incidents, 276 drug-related offenders were arrested, together with over 14.4 million methamphetamine pills, over 11.9 tonnes of ICE (crystal meth), 800 kg of caffeine, 2.2 tonnes of Ketamine, with a total estimated value of over 266 billion Kyats (over USD 73.9 million). Moreover, along with them, 224 weapons, 41,379 rounds of ammunition, 977 magazines, 36 hand grenades, 178 mortar shells, 25 GPS devices, 40 satellite phones, related accessories, vehicles, motorboats and ships used for transporting narcotics were seized. The seizures in detail can be read on the Infosheet Website https://infosheet.org///.Apparent narcotics seizuresOf 24 narcotics seizures involving AA group members, 9 apparent narcotics seizures involving AA top leaders themselves will be highlighted. On 8 August 2019, over 2.48 million methamphetamine pills, emblems with the ARAKAN Army logo, hand grenades, and walkie-talkies were seized at the residence of San Thar Kyaw, the Yekkun Taing village administrator of Rathedaung Township in Rakhine State–cum-member of the AA group. The drugs were stored for distribution to refugee camps within the Rakhine State and on the Bangladesh border, as well as for AA members’ use, according to San Tha Kyaw’s confession. In various towns and villages throughout Rakhine State, the AA group tends to task individuals deemed trustworthy, like San Thar Kyaw, among those who have been assigned administrative responsibilities, with the additional task of distributing illicit drugs.Between 3 and 9 December 2023, authorities seized 2.07 tonnes of ICE (crystal meth) and 800 kg of caffeine, estimated at 51.87 billion Kyats (over USD 24 million), at the Aung Mingalar Highway Bus Terminal in Yangon. During the operation, authorities arrested a drug trafficking ring that included four ranking officers and three other members of the AA group, as well as eight civilians.According to the interrogations, as per the instructions of AA leader Twan Mrat Naing, his trusted confidant and the AA’s business-in-charge, Colonel-ranked Kyaw Myat Oo (aka) Thar Thar (aka) Wai Thar Tun, managed to conduct drug-trafficking. The drugs were produced by the armed groups in Shan State, and they plotted to smuggle the drugs to Rakhine State from Mandalay and Yangon via land and water routes. They confessed that the drugs were to be shipped to Malaysia and Indonesia via the sea adjoining Rakhine State. It can be witnessed that AA group members are being tasked to be involved in drug dealings.Drug trade by AA group members masquerading as civiliansOn 6 March 2025, authorities arrested a team masquerading as civilians led by AA business in charge of Ye Win (aka) Kyaw Soe Lin at a warehouse located at No 546/547, Hsin Phyu Shin Street, Ward (144), Dagon Myothit (South) Township, Yangon Region. Along with them, over 3 tonnes of ICE (crystal meth) and over 200 kg of Ketamine, estimated at over 96 billion Kyats (USD 28.82 million), were seized. In this case, 14 members of a drug smuggling ring were arrested. Five of whom were business in charges masquerading as civilians, tasked by the AA group. It was discovered that many AA leaders’ trusted members were arrested in drug trafficking, so the AA members were masqueraded as civilian business in charges in a diversion tactic.Similarly, on 26 and 27 April 2025, 19 drug-related offenders led by AA’s supply in charge, Nay Paing Lin (aka) Aung Naing Kywe, were arrested in Yangon, Pyapon and Kawthoung. Along with them, 4.113 tonnes of ICE (crystal meth), one litre of ICE liquid and three tonnes of Ketamine were seized. They were a group to purchase arms/ammunition and provide rations for the AA group, using drug sales income.In this instance, drug dealers masquerading as civilians were covered by the AA group as the supply in charge of AA. They were tasked to conduct drug trafficking in fewer trips but in larger quantities.According to statements from the arrested drug-dealers of AA group members, those tasked to be involved in the drug trade are confidants of AA leader Twan Mrat Naing. The main responsible manipulator is Kyaw Han of colonel-level rank, working as the secretary of the AA group. The arrested drug-related offenders stated that they were not carrying out drug trafficking as a private business, but were being tasked to serve for the AA group. They received more salary and benefits than other AA group members. Their work is compartmentalized into those who keep drugs stored, those who distribute drugs and those who deal drugs abroad. Each group is unaware of another’s presence. However, it is reported that a senior in charge, like Wai Thar Tun, had served as a link between the separate groups.Under the management of AA leader Twan Mrat Naing, profits obtained from the drugs are used to supply arms/ammunition/rations to AA members, build fortifications and provide support for AA members. 70 per cent of the income from drugs is usually used to purchase weapons and ammunition, and they are known to exchange weapons for amphetamine pills and commit money laundering as well as transnational crimes such as human trafficking, connecting with international arms smuggling gangs.To be continuedGNLM
