Publication

This paper sheds light on the activities of non-armed members of ethnic minorities in Burma. Focusing on the Kachin, Karen, Mon, and Shan ethnic groups, the study describes nine major economic, political, and geographical categories of civilian experience. The author follows this with four contributions that non-armed members of ethnic minority groups may make to the political system: supporting the status quo; transforming or undermining the status quo; promoting collective identity and culture and addressing humanitarian needs; and helping to mediate ceasefire agreements.