Myanmar opposition cannot defeat regime militarily

Significance

The NUG announced the formation of a People’s Defence Force (PDF) in May. It urges PDF combatants and ethnic armed organisations (EAOs) embroiled in long-running conflicts with the military to attack targets linked to the regime.

Impacts

• The NUG will continue to press for international recognition.
• Military-imposed restrictions on telecoms and opposition attacks on related infrastructure will further damage the business environment.
• Panic buying among ordinary citizens will force up the price of household goods and worsen food insecurity.