Comparing Myanmar's State Actions against Rohingya and ISIS

Recent events in Myanmar have brought to light a disturbing trend of mass violence against the Rohingya, a Muslim minority group in the predominantly Buddhist country. This raises pertinent questions about the similarities and differences between these state actions and the actions of the extremist terrorist group, ISIS. In this article, we will explore the parallels and significant differences between the Myanmar government's treatment of the Rohingya and the actions of ISIS.

Background on Myanmar and the Rohingya

Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a nation in Southeast Asia that has a complex history with its religious and ethnic diversity. Bamar Buddhists form the largest ethnic group, making up about 68% of the population. They have historically dominated the government and society, leading to a marginalization of minority groups like the Rohingya. The Rohingya are an ethnic group in Rakhine State who are primarily recognized as Bengali by the international community but denied citizenship by the Myanmar government.

Government Actions against Rohingya: A Pattern of Persecution

The actions of the Myanmar government against the Rohingya are a culmination of decades of discriminatory policies and practices. Since the early 1980s, various military regimes have systematically stripped the Rohingya of their rights and identity. For instance, numerous oppressive policies have led to severe limitations on their movement, access to education, and basic services. These policies have created a fragile and unstable environment where the Rohingya face daily risks of violence, discrimination, and economic hardship.

ISIS: A Radicalized Terrorist Group

In contrast, ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) is a radical jihadi terrorist organization that operates in various regions across the Middle East and beyond. Unlike the Myanmar government, ISIS operates in a vacuum, claiming to represent an interpretation of Islam that is often far from what mainstream religious scholars endorse. While ISIS has carried out a considerable amount of violence against civilians and non-combatants, particularly Muslims, their actions are driven by an extremist ideology and a desire to create a caliphate, a system of governance under Islamic law.

Similarities and Differences

Both the Myanmar government and ISIS have caused extensive suffering, but there are crucial differences in their approaches and motivations:

1. Representation

Myanmar Government: The Myanmar government represents a significant portion of the electorate within the context of a fragile democracy. Its policies and actions are ostensibly aimed at maintaining power and national unity, albeit through an authoritarian lens. As the elected representatives of the majority Buddhist population, they have a mandate from a certain segment of the population.

ISIS: ISIS claims to represent an ideologically pure form of Islam, but its brutal methods and disregard for human life make it a ruthless terrorist group operating under false pretenses. Despite their publicly claimed religious motivations, their violent actions often do not align with traditional Islamic teachings and principles.

2. Scale and Nature of Violence

Myanmar: The Myanmar government has engaged in a pattern of violence and persecution against the Rohingya, leading to large-scale displacement, human rights abuses, and atrocities. However, the scale of these actions is not typically organized or dehumanizing in the same way as ISIS operations.

ISIS: ISIS is known for its mass-scale terror, including brutal massacres, cruel punishments, and destruction of cultural heritage. Their actions are often documented and recorded professionally, leaving a lasting and shocking legacy of violence and suffering.

3. Ideological Framework

Myanmar: The Myanmar regime's policies are rooted in a combination of ethnic nationalism and religious dominance. They see the Rohingya as an internal threat to the national identity and are seeking to maintain their control over the Baptist majority.

ISIS: ISIS's ideology is rooted in a perverted version of Islamic theology and a desire to establish a global caliphate. Their actions are motivated by a fanatic and extremist interpretation of Islam, which they believe justifies their brutal methods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both the Myanmar government and ISIS have caused extensive suffering and human rights abuses, there are significant differences in their approaches, motivations, and ideologies. The Myanmar government's actions are more closely tied to ethnic and religious biases within a democratic context, whereas ISIS represents a radicalized, violent extremist group with a different set of grievances and goals. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for addressing the complex issues surrounding ethnic and religious conflict in various parts of the world.

Keywords: Myanmar, Rohingya, ISIS, Buddhist Militancy, Ethnic Cleansing