militias organize themselves against the overpowered army

In eastern Burma, in Kayah State, they train at dawn, whatever the conditions. In this underground camp, the atmosphere is similar to a military camp: the difficult training is organized by the Karen, the main rebel ethnic faction which has long struggled against the current power. “I have been in the war before but I did not know how to fight. So I will follow these trainings well to go to the front. I am ready to give my life for my country“said Jack, a young recruit in the KNDF militia.

And among the volunteers, there are also women: “After this military training, I will join the medical staff as a nurse“, adds Htet who”wants to participate in this war to help the Burmese people“. To go further and face the powerful Burmese army, these rebel groups however lack the means:”Weapons are the main thing we need today. We fight well. So, if we could arm all our soldiers correctly, we would progress faster, and across the country.“, considers the Commander of the 8th battalion of the KNDF militia.