Myanmar has a long history of rulers prioritizing the protection and promotion of Buddhism over the welfare of their citizens. Htet Hlaing Win argues that this tradition has had disastrous consequences for the people of Myanmar, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Successive governments in Myanmar have historically placed a strong emphasis on serving and protecting Buddhism, following in the footsteps of pre-modern rulers who believed in the supremacy of the religion. This focus on religion has often come at the expense of addressing the needs of the population.
During the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021, Myanmar faced a severe crisis as the military junta, which had seized power in a coup, failed to adequately respond to the escalating health crisis. Local aid groups stepped in to provide essential supplies such as food, medicine, and oxygen, as the government imposed restrictions on the distribution of these critical resources. Thousands of individuals lost their lives due to the regime’s neglect and mismanagement of the situation, sparking domestic and international outrage.
The historical context of Myanmar’s political culture sheds light on the government’s priorities and responsibilities. Throughout Myanmar’s modern history, rulers have viewed themselves as protectors of Buddhism, with religious matters taking precedence over public welfare, education, and healthcare. Post-independence governments continued this trend, with leaders emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding Buddhism and neglecting the development of essential services for the population.
The article highlights how Myanmar’s rulers have historically used Buddhism as a political tool, leveraging religious sentiments to advance their agendas. From colonial times to the present day, politicians have exploited Buddhist beliefs to garner support and justify their actions. The politicization of religion has often overshadowed efforts to address the pressing needs of the people, leading to a neglect of public welfare and social services.
The brief period of quasi-democratic rule from 2011 to 2021 marked a departure from this historical pattern, with governments making efforts to address the needs of the population and prioritize civilian concerns. However, the return to military rule in 2021 saw a resurgence of the traditional focus on religion over public welfare, as evidenced by the construction of grand religious monuments and ceremonies while basic services remained neglected.
In conclusion, the article argues that Myanmar’s political culture, rooted in the protection of Buddhism, has hindered the government’s ability to effectively serve its citizens. By prioritizing religious matters over public welfare, successive governments have failed to address the fundamental needs of the population, leading to dire consequences during crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic. The return to military rule in 2021 has reinforced this trend, highlighting the enduring influence of religious beliefs on Myanmar’s political landscape.