Vocational Training Provides New Hope for Myanmar Military Defectors
Defectors from Myanmar’s military and police are learning vocational skills to transition into civilian life, amidst ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar. Training sessions, facilitated by organizations such as People’s Goal, focus on practical skills like mobile phone repairs and promote a hopeful path forward for these individuals seeking to escape their violent pasts and impose a peaceful future.
Defectors from Myanmar’s military and police forces are acquiring vocational skills to reshape their futures away from the conflict they once served. At a discreet location on the Myanmar-Thailand border, individuals such as Ko Aye engage in training to repair Android phones, facilitated by an ex-captain from the Myanmar army. This initiative, organized by the advocacy group People’s Goal, aims to provide hope and new skills to former military personnel who now seek a peaceful existence.
Having escaped from the oppressive environments of their former roles, many defectors are now residing in Thailand, where they can learn vital skills necessary for civilian life. Ko Aye, who previously worked as an airport police officer, defected amidst increasing scrutiny and suffering due to his gender identity and has since joined a campaign for democracy. During his journey to safety, he has witnessed the catastrophic consequences of military actions against civilians.
The vocational training program not only encompasses mobile phone repairs but also offers instruction on fixing bicycles and motorcycles. This multifaceted approach aids defectors in finding employment opportunities amid the legal and societal challenges they face in Thailand. The urgent need for support is underscored by the lack of legal residency status for many defectors, heightening fears of deportation and punishment if returned to Myanmar.
Naung Yoe, a former army major and one of the leaders at People’s Goal, emphasizes, “Our main goal is to give hope for people who want to defect.” He notes that the educational programs offered also provide counseling and essential knowledge regarding democracy and human rights. This training serves a dual purpose: equipping defectors with practical skills while encouraging others who may consider leaving the military, by portraying a viable life post-defection.
As Myanmar approaches the fourth anniversary of civil conflict following the military coup in February 2021, the plight of those involved in the military is compounded by pervasive violence and human rights abuses reported under military rule. Naung Yoe estimates that upwards of 15,000 military and police personnel have defected or surrendered since the coup. Training programs like those offered by People’s Goal are critical, as they provide not only practical skills but also hope for a future free from violence.
Despite skepticism regarding the impact of vocational training on encouraging defectors, experienced trainers remain committed to imparting their skills to those willing to change their lives. The testimonies of participants, such as Zaw Gyi and Ko Aye, illustrate the transformative effects of these workshops. Through their collaborative efforts, these former soldiers not only learn new trades but also build supportive relationships, thereby laying the groundwork for a peaceful community dedicated to healing and coexistence.
The situation in Myanmar has been dire since the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, leading to widespread civil unrest. Defectors from the military and police face immense challenges as they transition from a life of service in a brutal regime to seeking a peaceful civilian existence. The need for vocational training programs is critical for these individuals, as many arrive in neighboring countries such as Thailand without skills for employment and without legal protections. Advocacy groups like People’s Goal serve a vital role in facilitating this transition by providing training, safe housing, and education on civil rights.
The vocational training initiatives for defectors from Myanmar’s military and police are not merely educational but serve as lifelines, offering hope and pathways to peaceful civilian lives. By equipping these individuals with necessary skills while fostering a supportive community, organizations like People’s Goal aim to transform the lives of those who have fled military service, thus contributing to the eventual restoration of peace in Myanmar. As more defectors emerge from a traumatic history of armed conflict, the need for such supportive measures will only continue to grow.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
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