Mon Youth Day celebrations can no longer be held in each township, since the military takeover. The number of Mon youths in the country has also decreased, so interest and participation in the events have been steadily declining.
Mon Youth Day is celebrated annually on December 28th.
The event recognizes youth achievements and strengthens connections among Mon youths. In the past, townships took turns organising the celebrations, and thousands would participate.
However, after the military takeover, security issues in different areas have made it impossible to hold the celebrations in each township. Now, only a small number of youths gather in Mawlamyine, usually at hotels, and the events are much smaller and limited.
A Mon youth leader from Mawlamyine said that, because of this situation, Mon youth are losing interest in annual day celebrations.
“Youths are less interested because they no longer have the freedom to speak openly or organise large events as before. Now, political restrictions divide youths, and they are not very interested in the celebrations anymore,” the source added.
A Mon youth said that political differences among youths and travel difficulties caused by political instability has led to very few youth attending Mon Youth Day celebrations.
He said, “Because of political differences, youths are divided and travel cautiously. Parents are worried about their children’s safety and don’t want to let them go out. In some areas, youth also need documents or approvals to travel, which makes it difficult.”
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A Mon youth leader from Mudon Township said, “The celebrations are no longer like they used to be. Organisers are just trying to keep the event from being cancelled. It can’t be lively like before, and only a small number of youths in town participate. It’s no longer easy or really suitable to hold the event.”
The few planned celebrations are now held just to keep the tradition alive, however they can no longer include parades, performances, or literary contests.
Mon Youth Day was officially established in April 2012 during the third Mon Youth gathering, based on the first meeting held in Mawlamyine on December 28th, 1946.
