A Call for nationalism in Myanmar
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Tin Zar Lynn (NP News) - Oct 30
In the words of Sun Yat-sen, “We should recognize that nationalism does not mean discriminating against people of a different nationality. It simply means not allowing such people to seize our political power, for only when we Han are in control politically do we have a nation.” This highlights the need for nationalism to safeguard a nation’s sovereignty. We live in a nation, and we belong to its collective self. A nation is defined as a group of individuals who share cultural traits like language, history, ethnicity, and a shared sense of belonging to a specific territory.
Historically, nationalism has been a central concept for many powerful countries, shaping their identities and political landscapes.
To illustrate this point, Myanmar’s two prominent neighbouring countries, China and India, both hold nationalism as a significant component of their national identities, but they express and implement it in distinct ways.
For instance, Chinese nationalism has deep historical roots and has been particularly pronounced since the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in response to foreign domination and the colonial experiences of the Opium Wars and the Boxer Rebellion. The rise of the Communist Party of China (CPC) solidified a form of nationalism that intertwines with socialism, emphasizing the importance of national unity, territorial integrity, and a strong central government. Under the leadership of the CPC, nationalism has been mobilized to foster pride in China’s achievements, particularly its rapid economic growth and re-emergence as a global power. This nationalism often manifests in a strong sense of sovereignty, especially regarding issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea, where the government promotes a narrative of historical claims and national rejuvenation.
Conversely, in India, nationalism emerged prominently during the struggle for independence from British colonial rule in the early 20th century. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru championed a vision of a united, diverse nation, emphasizing principles of self-determination, civil rights, and cultural pride. Indian nationalism is characterized by its inclusivity, seeking to unite a vast array of ethnicities, languages, and religions under a single national identity. However, contemporary Indian nationalism has also seen the rise of more assertive and sometimes exclusionary forms, particularly with the influence of Hindu nationalist movements, which emphasize Hindu identity as central to the nation.
In both cases, nationalism continues to shape domestic policies and international relations, reflecting each country’s aspirations and challenges.
Turning to Myanmar, nationalism has deep roots in its history, particularly during the British colonial period. Under British rule, which began in the 19th century, various ethnic groups in Myanmar faced significant economic and political marginalization. This led to the emergence of nationalist sentiments as people sought to reclaim their sovereignty and cultural identity.
During this time, nationalist movements began to gain momentum, with leaders like Aung San playing pivotal roles in uniting different ethnic groups against colonial rule. These movements were fueled by a shared desire for independence and self-determination, culminating in the struggle for liberation during World War II, when some nationalist factions allied with Japan against the British. Ultimately, Myanmar achieved independence in 1948, largely driven by this nationalist sentiment.
After gaining independence, Myanmar has faced a range of complex challenges, notably intense ethnic tensions and a declining sense of national unity. Many ethnic groups, feeling sidelined and seeking more autonomy, have resorted to armed conflict in their pursuit of separation from the union. As a result, these groups frequently perceive the Tatmadaw, Myanmar's military, as an oppressive force rooted in the very nationalist sentiments that once sought to achieve independence from colonial rule.
Many ethnic armed groups have a spirit of self-rule, believing that they alone will protect their ethnic and their territories. Rather than living together under the identity of being Myanmar nationals, they cultivate a sense of ethnocentrism that aims to overthrow the government. As a result, they can no longer see the Tatmadaw as a unified force; instead, they threaten the sovereignty of the state and focus on their own interests.
The Tatmadaw is composed of all national ethnicities and plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security against both internal and external threats. To eliminate such internal and external threats, it is necessary to unify and rally together with a national spirit to ensure stability domestically and prevent foreign interference. Therefore, to resolve the current issues between the ethnic armed forces and the Tatmadaw, nurturing the idea of nationalism will support finding solutions to these problems and safeguard national security. Understanding the Tatmadaw's role requires a nuanced perspective that considers both the challenges it faces and the broader context of national security within Myanmar.
In conclusion, strengthening nationalism is essential for safeguarding Myanmar's sovereignty and unity. As Sun Yat-sen articulated, nationalism is not about discrimination but about maintaining political control for a nation's self-preservation. A nation thrives on shared cultural traits and a collective identity, which is vital in the face of both internal and external threats. In Myanmar, a renewed focus on nationalism is crucial to address ethnic tensions and foster a sense of belonging among all citizens. By nurturing a strong national spirit, Myanmar can work towards stability, resolve ongoing conflicts, and uphold its sovereignty in a complex global landscape.