There have been 365 reported cases of sexual violence in Karenni (Kayah) State over the five years since the military coup, according to data from a conflict-related sexual violence report by the Women’s League Burma (WLB).
The paper was presented by Naw Hser Hser, a member of the WLB -political initiative, at a discussion held on 18 June to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict.
Naw Hser Hser stated that, due to the absence of the rule of law in the country since the coup, perpetrators continue to enjoy impunity, which emboldens them to commit crimes more easily.
Naw Hser Hser said, “We also see that the perpetrators themselves are limiting the lives of women who have been raped and threatening their safety to prevent them from revealing what happened.
The report reveals that, according to WLB’s census, there have been a total of 963 cases of conflict-related sexual violence nationwide, with Karenni State recording the highest number of violations.
WLB also found that vulnerable groups—including women, young girls, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and the elderly—are more likely to be targeted and abused throughout the country.
WLB stated that these offenses have been reported not only among Myanmar military junta forces but also among various ethnic armed groups.
The IEC’s Justice Department stated that, despite efforts to establish the rule of law in Karenni State—where sexual violence is most widespread—challenges persist in taking effective action due to the ongoing conflict.
State Attorney General Khun Justin stated that the government is unable to effectively address the issue due to a lack of human and legal resources, but cases that do reach the court are being processed according to the law.
Khun Justin said, “Some cases are cognizable offenses, such as domestic violence, violence against women, and sexual violence. Although these fall under police jurisdiction, both parties cannot simply settle them. The police must investigate, make arrests, and press charges. However, in the current situation, there are cases the police consider closed, so they avoid making arrests and getting involved in complicated matters. The police are unable to act because some people oppose it.”
He also stated that conflict-related sexual violence has steadily increased between 2015 and 2025.
According to a report by WLB, since the coup, conflict-related sexual violence incidents have occurred across the country, including 365 cases in Karenni State, 349 in Sagaing Region, 102 in Shan State, 40 in Kachin State, 27 in Tanintharyi Region, 19 in Chin State, and additional cases in other regions and states.
Sent by Kantarawaddy Times