I need to say a few words about the tenor of the public statements made by the UN and “Western” nations following the military coup in Myanmar. This is part of a conversation I had today with a friend in a remote part of Rakhine State. 1/

The UN/“West” have used strong rhetoric such as, “We will hold the generals accountable.” However, what they know - and most people in Myanmar don’t - is that there is neither the economic or diplomatic leverage nor political will to uphold that promise. cc: Rohingya crisis 2/

In 2017, one of the hardest things I had to do was try and explain to friends experiencing a genocide why the “international community” wasn’t coming to save them. The disconnect between rhetoric and action from these actors was devastating for them and incomprehensible. 3/

The fact is, there is little the UN, US, UK, EU, int’l courts etc. can or will do to meaningfully intervene in this situation. The people of Myanmar deserve to hear and know this truth directly and transparently, so they can factor it into their own resistance strategies. 4/

That a rumor about an Ambassador’s family leaving the county can cause widespread panic; that the people have been sent symbolic gestures dressed up rhetorically as interventionist stances - this actually causes harm. 5/

The people of Myanmar have clearly shown their capacity for brilliant, innovative, savvy strategizing and organizing. To allow them to waste any portion of that energy on lost causes, like lobbying the UN, does their movement a disservice. 6/

Rhetoric showing solidarity is worthwhile; it gives people hope. But false promises about accountability & allusions to the possibility of meaningful intervention are damaging, not only now but in the future, when the people’s disappointment at being let down turns to anger. 7/

If these international actors want to truly support the people, to build a positive & sustainable relationship, to rectify past mistakes and alienation, then the approach & tenor of these messages must change. Solidarity, hope, encouragement, yes - but also truth & transparency.

One last note to people in Myanmar reading this: don't be discouraged. You don't need the UN or foreign governments. Stay unified and motivated, stay creative and strategic, stay peaceful, support each other - and you'll already have everything you need.