Youth representatives from ethnic armed organizations belonging to the 7 EAO Alliance are attending a youth peace forum being held in Naypyidaw under the leadership of the military junta’s National Solidarity and Peace Negotiation Committee (NSPNC), according to sources.
The Youth Peace Forum, which runs from January 13th to the 15th, includes participants from the 7 EAO Alliance as well as youth representatives from various regions and states across the country.
Colonel Khun Okker, Chair of the Pa-O National Liberation Organization (PNLO/NCA-S), said the forum brings together young people aged between 18 and 35 from ethnic armed organizations that continue to follow the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) framework.
“The seven EAOs are still adhering to the NCA path. That is why around 300 to 400 EAO youth have gathered in Naypyidaw today to discuss peace-related issues and exchange views from a youth perspective,” Khun Okka said.
He added that discussions and recommendations from youth participants could influence the political landscape expected to emerge after elections planned by the military junta.
A Mon youth observer said the junta has been organizing peace forums as part of its post-election political roadmap, while also seeking to reduce youth resistance against military rule.
“The main goal is not genuine political change, but to return to the political situation that existed before 2021. At the same time, because many young people are opposing the military junta, these forums are held under the name of ‘youth peace’ to reduce resistance and to project an image of inclusive participation from regions, states, and ceasefire armed groups,” said the observer.
He added that youth attending the forum may include both supporters of the military junta and others who do not support it but have joined out of a desire for peace.
According to organizers, the forum is intended to gather youth perspectives and proposals related to peacebuilding and nation-building.
Khun Okker said that each of the seven NCA-signatory ethnic armed organizations has been allowed to send two youth representatives to the forum.
“At present, many EAOs are participating, representing different ethnic groups. From the seven NCA-signatory groups, two youth representatives per organization are allowed to attend. Our Pa-O organization has already sent two participants,” he said.
Since seizing power from the civilian government in 2021, the military junta has faced widespread opposition from young people across the country, who oppose military rule.
