The Kayin Dilemma
1.
The Karen National Union (KNU) has been fighting the central Myanmar
government for an independent state, the Kawthoolei and the right to
self-determination for the past 43 years.
2.
The Karens numbered 7 million in Myanmar, being found mostly in Kayin and
Mon State and in the divisions of Tanintharyi, Bago and Yangon.
3.
There had been reports of forced pottering for the military, relocation
of entire villages to other towns and conscription into the Burmese army
throughout the State.
4. The military operations conducted in the State have led to some 200,000 displaced people who are now scattered in refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border.