The Myanmar military junta has reportedly included disabled individuals and underage children in its military training programs, according to People’s Embrace, an organization assisting those fleeing the junta’s forces.
In regions struggling to meet military recruitment quotas, the junta has been accused of violating local directives by forcibly detaining residents. Reports indicate that authorities have raided homes and arbitrarily arrested individuals to ensure the military training programs continue.
Some detainees have sought help from People’s Embrace, which collaborates with the National Unity Government (NUG) and allied resistance forces to rescue and evacuate these individuals. Among those rescued were children under 18 and persons with disabilities, highlighting the junta’s disregard for eligibility criteria.
“Their laws exist only on paper,” said a representative from People’s Embrace. “For example, a 17-year-old contacted us earlier this month. In the past, physical fitness was a strict requirement for public service, but now even a child with a disabled arm is forced to participate. The authorities no longer consider age or health conditions.”
While no reports of underage or disabled participants have emerged in Mon State, People’s Embrace has urged local communities to remain vigilant.
Since the enforcement of military conscription laws in February, nearly 30,000 individuals have sought assistance from People’s Embrace. The organization has provided emergency evacuation support and connected them with resistance groups operating on the ground.
The situation highlights the escalating challenges faced by Myanmar’s disabled community. A disability rights advocate stated, “This is deeply unfair to people with disabilities. Most have no prior knowledge or resources to prepare for situations like this.”
In addition to on-ground recruitment, the junta has reportedly targeted youth online, disguising military enlistment as job opportunities.
