Myanmar's Civil War Pushes Professionals into Dangerous Trades

The civil strife in Myanmar, exacerbated by a military coup and deteriorating economic conditions, has forced many professionals into prostitution as desperate measures to support themselves and their families. As of late 2024, nearly half of the population lives in poverty, showcasing the dire consequences of the war.

Since the military coup in February 2021, Myanmar's social and economic landscape has irreparably changed, straining even the most ambitious careers. One notable case is that of May, a 26-year-old doctor who found her dreams shattered just a month after graduation. The conflict’s toll has become glaringly apparent, with inflation soaring to 26%, and widespread power shortages crippling factories.

May, who had dedicated seven years to medical school, saw her monthly salary of $415 diminish under the grim realities exacerbated by the war-torn economy. “It's heartbreaking that after years of hard work, I’m forced to turn to this just to survive,” she laments, referring to her decision to take up sex work. Having overheard about "date girls" making significantly more money, May succumbed to the temptation out of desperation, especially with her father's kidney disease adding to her financial constraints.

The situation in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, serves as a microcosm of the broader national crisis. It was recently reported that almost half the people in Myanmar now live in poverty according to the World Bank. Alarmingly, this financial despair has dragged various professionals—including teachers and nurses—into the shadows of the sex trade.

As the currency continues to lose value, the social fabric of the country unravels further, with more educated women like May driven into perilous trades to provide for their families. Despite their professional achievements and aspirations, they face a grim path ahead, revealing the harrowing impact of war on individuals and communities across Myanmar.