Myanmar’s military government has announced a series of new laws designed to consolidate its control over the country, particularly targeting resistance forces. Myanmar has been preparing for a long-awaited election by the end of this year. This leaves overseas businesses wary of incurring compliance risk related to the new regulations.
The military’s efforts to reinforce its authority were evident during a recent parade in Naypyitaw, where military officers marched in commemoration of Myanmar’s 80th Armed Forces Day. The government seized on this crisis to announce far reaching economic reforms. These amendments are designed to respond to bad opposition forces and create a show of strength before the electoral campaign even starts.
These new laws are part of the military government’s continued unequivocal resolve to suppress dissent. Their purpose is to regain and consolidate their control, and cement their power. Elected officials are rolling back these regulations to nip even the slightest hint of opposition in the bud. They are intent on holding onto that authority throughout the election cycle. The new announcement has blindsided many international businesses doing business out of Myanmar. Now, they are faced with greater compliance risks as these new legal frameworks have been instituted.
Among these numerous measures tabled, cybersecurity appears to be a top priority for Thailand’s military government. The forthcoming cybersecurity regulations are expected to set heavy new obligations on companies to protect consumer data and secure sensitive information. Consequently, international firms can find themselves struggling to understand these complexities, with a fear of negative violations and consequences.
For years, advocates and experts have seen this as a dangerous and devastating trend. The military government’s plan is to slowly tamp down dissent in a systematic and deliberate approach. These damaging new laws each were introduced only a few months before the state’s upcoming election. This timing indicates a tactical move to avoid or lessen an expected backlash during this politically fraught time.
For the second time in a year, many observers are doubting that an election will occur as planned. The military framed it as a move towards restoring democracy. Those critics have long claimed that the new laws are an assault on real democracy. Their real goal, they argue, is to keep military rule firmly entrenched over the political scene.