By Kantarawaddy Times
Over the three years since the military coup, physical violence has been the most prevalent form of abuse reported against women in Karenni State, according to data.
From 2021, when the military seized power, to October 2024, the Karenni National Women’s Organization (KNWO) documented 101 cases of physical violence, 65 cases of psychological abuse, 21 cases of sexual violence, and 14 cases of rape against women.
KNWO Chairperson Maw Pray Myar told Kantarawaddy Times that family disintegration caused by ongoing conflict has been a significant factor contributing to such violence.
“One of the main reasons is that, since 2021, people have been unable to live in their own villages due to frequent displacement caused by the ongoing conflict. Families have been separated as a result. Children have had to seek educational opportunities far from their villages and communities, while parents have relocated elsewhere. As families are no longer living together as a unit, children often lack close supervision, leaving them vulnerable to various challenges,” said Maw Pray Myar.
In addition, the lack of educational and employment opportunities for teenagers has led to growing mental health issues. Some turn to drug use as an outlet, which often escalates into violent behavior, she explained.
KNWO emphasized that the current military conflicts in Karenni State and across Myanmar are closely linked to the increasing violence against women. Maw Pray Myar stated that awareness campaigns and policy reforms in collaboration with relevant organizations will be conducted to address these issues.
“Since these acts of violence are tied to political conflict, they will persist unless we implement continuous awareness campaigns. We also need to advocate for policy reforms with relevant organizations to improve security and protection measures for affected communities,” she said.
According to KNWO’s data, cases of violence against women have increased annually since the coup. A nationwide report by the World Health Organization (WHO), released on November 26, revealed that at least one in five families in Myanmar has experienced physical, sexual, or psychological violence from an intimate partner.
