Myanmar: Caught in the Crossfire: How Political Instability Is Sinking Traditional Fisheries in Mon State

Nov 4, 2026 | Kun Wood
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Many communities are suffering, with traditional ways of life under threat, as conflict and military misgovernance continue in Myanmar. In this commentary, Kun Wood analyses the worsening plight of fisherfolk in Mon State since the 2021 coup d'état. Economic inflation, security challenges, military conscription, transport difficulties, arbitrary taxes, weather hazards, and the incursion by military vessels and industrial trawlers – all are having devastating impact upon local families and livelihoods. Meanwhile many young people are leaving, seeking safety and opportunities abroad.