Rights Refused

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For decades, Myanmar has been recognized primarily for its human rights struggle against a military regime, largely symbolized by Aung San Suu Kyi. However, a deeper examination reveals a divide between elite human rights advocates and the everyday experiences of Burmese citizens grappling with oppressive governance. While elites champion human rights, many subalterns view these rights as hollow promises, often rejecting them altogether. This perspective became evident during the "transition" from military rule that began in 2011, a period marked by significant political and social activism. The question arises: how do individuals engage in politics without the stabilizing force of rights to support their fight against injustice? This work documents the efforts of grassroots activists advocating for workers and peasants in Burma, spanning the democratic transition from 2011 to 2021 and the subsequent military coup in February 2021, which sparked ongoing resistance. Through vivid accounts from protest camps, prisons, and various forms of activism—including courtroom immolation and land reoccupations—this exploration challenges conventional understandings of rights frameworks and highlights the complexities of subaltern politics in Myanmar.