Understanding the Dynamics of Prisoner of War Treatment in Myanmar's Civil Conflict

The ongoing civil war in Myanmar has led to a significant increase in armed resistance against the military junta, resulting in the capture of approximately 15,000 prisoners of war by rebel forces facing challenges in their treatment and management.

In the wake of Myanmar's military coup over four years ago, tens of thousands of civilians have taken up arms, prompting a complex civil war involving numerous rebel groups. As of 2023, these resistance forces have achieved several significant victories against the junta, leading to the capture of an estimated 15,000 prisoners of war (P.O.W.s), according to data from People’s Goal, a nonprofit organization supporting army defectors.

The captured soldiers include not only combatants but also family members of military personnel found in junta-controlled areas that rebel groups have overtaken. Most of these relatives have been released, leaving the rebels with a substantial number of detainees whom they must manage amid limited resources and diverse armed factions.

How do these rebel forces treat their P.O.W.s? The management of such large numbers presents considerable logistical challenges. Many of the rebel factions operate makeshift detention facilities scattered throughout their territorial strongholds, accommodating varying numbers of captives, from dozens to hundreds.

Conditions differ significantly: prisoners often have to contribute to their survival by participating in food cultivation or self-catering activities. This approach is indicative of the resource constraints faced by the groups engaged in the civil struggle, highlighting the complexities inherent in maintaining both humanitarian considerations and operational effectiveness in a protracted conflict. The situation remains fluid as the dynamics of war continue to evolve against the backdrop of intense resistance and military aggression.