Rakhine Between War and Ethnic Harmony

War continues to reshape Rakhine State, but a quieter transformation unfolding beneath the surface may prove just as consequential as any battlefield gains.

The Arakan Army (AA), which now controls most of the state, is making efforts to promote social harmony among its diverse and fractious ethnic communities—and in some parts they are bearing palpable fruit.

One example is the upper Laymyo River area of Mrauk-U Township, where Arakanese, Chin, Mro, Khami, and Maramargyi communities live side by side. Residents here say that inter-ethnic relations are now characterized by friendliness and mutual respect, with few outright hostilities.

“The AA governs the people equally. Even though we are Chin, we are treated warmly and respectfully,” said Kan Thein, a 53-year-old from Khitechaung Village.

Maramargyi residents in the Laymyo Chaung area also say that inter-ethnic relations, communication and trade have improved.

They noted significant differences between the period of military rule and the current administration, the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government. (APRG)

Oo Saw Nwe, a Maramargyi woman from Mrauk-U’s Yawmani Village, said: “Things have improved. Travel has become easier. Even at night, if something happens to children or pregnant women, we can go out. During the junta period, we didn’t dare to travel at night. So things are much more convenient now: both administration and transportation have gotten a lot better.”

The testimonies point to something deeper than administrative change. They suggest an attempt, however incomplete, to redefine governance along more inclusive lines.