The Rohingya Crisis: Background on Myanmar, the Current Conflict, and Relevant Actors

Abstract

AbstractThe chapter delves into the history behind the Rohingya crisis, tracing its roots beyond the events of 2017. Although the Myanmar government established the year 1824 as the cut-off date for citizenship, historical evidence suggests that the term ‘Rohingya’ was used prior to this period, indicating the longstanding presence of this Muslim minority group in the region. Furthermore, the chapter sheds light on the multifaceted nature of the crisis, involving actors such as the state, the military, Buddhist monks, and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA). Of particular significance is the unlikely alliance formed between ultranationalist Buddhists and the military, who were once adversaries but joined forces against the Rohingya population, leading to intensified violence and displacement. This historical context provides crucial insights into the complexities and underlying factors driving the ongoing Rohingya crisis.