Christianity, Democracy, and Suffering in Burma

Abstract

This article explores why and how Burmese Christians have intensely resisted the return of military tyranny, documents the disastrous ramifications of the deepening political crisis and rising violence for Christians, and presents how churches have cared for one another and helped each other to survive. In terms of number, size, and magnitude, this national catastrophe is historically unprecedented. With other Burmese, Christians have resisted the junta, primarily because, after enduring over half a century of viciousness under military rule, they cannot think of a future without democracy and freedom. This crisis also reveals that nonviolent resistance has failed and armed resistance becomes indispensable if the Burmese want a future without military tyranny. It is, however, not the Burmese that have changed, but the context in which they have found themselves.