Conscription in Myanmar dates back to the mid-1950s, with military leaders initially proposing it due to fears of potential invasions by neighboring countries.
When the conscription law was presented on November 4, 2010, it generated significant public panic and criticism, leading quasi-civilian governments from 2011 to 2021 to delay its enforcement.
Despite initial reliance on airstrikes and heavy weaponry to compensate for troop shortages, the lack of manpower continued to be a significant demoralizing factor for the military.
[1] The implementation of mandatory conscription under the People’s Military Service Law has escalated instability in Myanmar and raised alarms about the safety and well-being of civilian populations.
The law has intensified calls for international intervention to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further violence and human rights violations in the country.