KNU Thaton district officials reported that over 400 youths are seeking refuge within the Karen National Union (KNU) district due to the military junta’s conscription law.
The military service law, which was first enacted in 2010 under former dictator, U Than Shwe, was re-implemented on February 10th by coup leader, General Min Aung Hlaing.
Since the law came into force more than 600 youths from all over the country have contacted KNU Thaton district seeking refuge. Currently more than 400 youths have arrived in the district.
The Thaton district People’s Defence Forces officer stated that the young people seeking refuge have been provided shelter, and they will later receive additional assistance..
“Some came because they were afraid of military service, and some because they want to contribute to the revolution. All arrivals are being verified. After that, we will help according to their wishes,” he said.
Most of the refugees who came to KNU Thaton district are men, and about 2 percent are women.
Under the military junta’s conscription law, men between the ages of 18 and 45 must serve at least 2 to 5 years.
The Military Council has announced that conscription week 1 will commence after the upcoming Thingyan festival. The Council has said 5,000 individuals will be called up for military service per week, totaling up to 60,000 people annually.
As a result of the conscription law, young people from across the country are joining revolutionary forces, while others are leaving illegally for neighboring countries, such as Thailand.
