Burma news 2018
Here are some of the major news stories from Burma (Myanmar) in 2018:
Politics
- February 2018: The National League for Democracy (NLD) party, led by Aung San Suu Kyi, wins a landslide victory in the general elections, securing 80% of the seats in the parliament.
- March 2018: The NLD government announces plans to hold a referendum on a new constitution, which would allow the military to maintain significant influence over the government.
- August 2018: The United States lifts most of its sanctions on Burma, citing progress on human rights and democracy.
Human Rights
- January 2018: The UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Burma, Yanghee Lee, reports on the ongoing crisis in Rakhine State, where hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims have been forced to flee to Bangladesh.
- March 2018: The Burmese military is accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Rakhine State, including mass killings, rape, and arson.
- October 2018: The International Criminal Court (ICC) opens an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Burma, including the persecution of the Rohingya.
Economy
- January 2018: The Burmese government announces plans to launch a new stock exchange, aiming to attract foreign investment and boost economic growth.
- March 2018: The World Bank approves a $500 million loan to support Burma's economic development, including infrastructure and human development projects.
- November 2018: Burma's economy grows by 6.4% in the third quarter, driven by increased investment and exports.
Conflict
- January 2018: Fighting breaks out between the Burmese military and the Arakan Army, a rebel group fighting for greater autonomy in Rakhine State.
- March 2018: The Burmese military launches a military operation against the Arakan Army, leading to clashes and displacement of civilians.
- August 2018: The Burmese military and the Arakan Army agree to a ceasefire, following talks facilitated by the United Nations.
Other
- February 2018: A powerful cyclone hits Burma, killing at least 34 people and displacing thousands.
- June 2018: The Burmese government announces plans to launch a new national airline, aiming to boost tourism and economic growth.
- December 2018: The Burmese government signs a peace agreement with several ethnic armed groups, aimed at ending decades of conflict and promoting national reconciliation.
These are just a few of the major news stories from Burma in 2018. If you're looking for more information or specific news stories, please let me know!