Conscription drives civilians into conflict
In Myanmar, several young men who never intended to join any armed struggle have ended up in the middle of the civil war. They describe being taken by the military in different situations, including while returning from work, traveling home late at night, or simply lacking proper identification.
Training and harsh conditions
The men say they were given basic training for around four months before being sent to the front lines in Karen state. They describe strict routines, little rest, and heavy workloads placed mainly on conscripts rather than regular troops.
They also say they were sent into active conflict quickly and had very limited time to adjust or recover. Life in the camps, they explain, was physically exhausting and tightly controlled.
Escape and capture by rebel forces
During a brief moment of movement away from camp, the group decided to escape
Wider impact on the conflict
Forced recruitment has become a key factor in changing the balance of the conflict. The civil war has caused widespread destruction, killing thousands and displacing millions across the country.
The situation continues to shift, with fighting still active across multiple fronts.
