Choose the best way to develop the country

THE International Day of Democracy provides an op­portunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international commu­nity, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere, according to UNESCO.

 

The values of freedom, respect for human rights and the principle of holding periodic and genuine elections by universal suffrage are essential elements of democracy. Democracy provides the natural environment for the protection and effective realization of human rights. The peaceful development of societies is sure to contribute to the construction and consolidation of democ­racy and the development of democratic institutions, es­pecially in times of transition.

 

The aspiration to build a Union based on democracy and a federal system is the shared hope of the Myanmar people today. This vision is not only embraced by the government, Tatmadaw, and the general public, but also by those who oppose, resist, or confront the State. However, it is difficult to understand why, despite agreeing on de­mocracy and federalism in principle, some continue to take up arms and engage in conflict.

 

In the political arena, those who prioritize person­al interests over national affairs, those who corrupt politics, and those with lim­ited vision are increasingly visible. Likewise, there are individuals who, under the guise of defending ethnic groups, form armed groups to assert control, those who wield weapons for personal gain, and those who blindly adhere to an unending path of armed struggle. These actors are leading the various armed factions across the country.

 

All groups in different dimensions should review that when the destination is the same, choosing a path with fewer obstacles and minimal bloodshed is the wiser course. Due to destructive acts, many towns, villages, roads, bridges, and even the homes of inno­cent civilians have already been damaged. Although successive governments have taken steps toward national development, the destructive actions of some prevent steady progress, a situation that persists to the present day.

 

If actions are undertaken collectively and in harmony with the interests of the nation and the regions, the country will soon be on a path of development. Therefore, if there is a genuine desire for a democratic and federal union, the path forward is to abandon armed struggle and return to political dialogue, allowing the nation and its people to prosper.