Through the Lens: Life and Politics in Asia

From Myanmar to India: Refugees’ Lives Matter

Recent Features

Through the Lens: Life and Politics in Asia | Society | South Asia

From Myanmar to India: Refugees’ Lives Matter

Myanmar’s Chin people in India.

Myanmar’s Chin people are an ethnic minority from the Southeast Asian country’s Chin state, which borders India. They have been in conflict with Myanmar’s government for decades over their demand for a genuine autonomy. Facing persecution, including torture and rape, in their homeland allegedly by the military, tens of thousands of them have fled to India.

With no identity cards, they have been living in India with a great sense of uncertainty and insecurity. Girls and women are especially at risk, as they often become victims of sexual abuse and even rape.

I spoke to Mr. Cung Dawt, who is in charge of Chin Human Rights Organization, about what their lives look like and what their hopes are.

Dreaming of a career in the Asia-Pacific?
Try The Diplomat's jobs board.
Find your Asia-Pacific job