Specials Most Popular Stories of 2018

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YANGON—As 2018 comes to an end, The Irrawaddy rehashes some of our most popular stories of the year. Throughout a year of diverse coverage, The Irrawaddy has shared a wide range of fascinating stories including those about bars on the shore of the famed Inle Lake, cultural diversity and economic vibrancy along the Myanmar-India border, as well as the last bottle painter of Bagan. For those looking for insights into Myanmar affairs and international relations and a recap on the country’s political and social milestones during 2018, our most popular editorials, commentaries and Datelines shouldn’t be missed. Be inspired by those in the business, tourism and gender-rights sectors while reading interviews with them linked below. To get beyond the headlines of the most pressing issues of the year, our most-read analytical and in-depth articles can help further your understanding. Happy New Year and happy reading to you all!

COMMENTARY

Executive power in Myanmar is divided between the civilian government and armed forces. As many political observers put it, there are two lions sharing a cave. But which is king?

Beijing urges government not to sign MOU in bid to lure Myanmar away from the West

Women’s rights advocates are calling for legislation that better protects vulnerable women from rape — even the death penalty.

While Myanmar seeks to diversify its military suppliers, it will continue to seek diplomatic cover first and foremost from China.

The question facing our leaders should no longer be if, but when, terrorists will strike

U Htin Kyaw performed his ceremonial role competently; his successor should be given latitude to address the country’s problems

FEATURES

At a meeting in Ngapali last weekend, government officials and business owners debated the beach’s fall from grace. Some blame unchecked development by the rich and powerful.

Popular tourist spot offers a wealth of things to do … or just a nice place to chill

A slow but definite dissent is brewing against both New Delhi and Naypyitaw in the remote Naga hills.

Local rock star Kyar Pauk showcases his art at his first solo exhibition.

Good eats,funky drinks and funky pubs make for a surprisingly fun night out

EDITORIAL

Facebook can no longer turn a blind eye to the misuse of its network. Otherwise, it will be accused of being complicit in Myanmar’s ongoing crisis.

The Home Affairs Ministry must explain why civilian thugs were allowed to attack a peaceful demonstration in Yangon

As we reflect on 70 years of independence, we can see that the origins of many of the nation’s most persistent problems – ethnic division, conflict and a lack of democracy – date to the period of British rule

The people of Myanmar need not only a clean government but effective ministries with the right people in the right places to move the country forward.

Monday’s court decision to charge two Reuters reporters is a clear sign that press freedom in Myanmar is dangerously on the wane. The free press has been warned.

CULTURE

Just months after his passing, works by the artist — who struggled financially all his life — fetch high prices at Yangon exhibition

The new exhibit aims to inspire a new generation of artists by screening a few classics from Myanmar cinema stretching back to the 1950s over the next few weeks.

A collaboration between the popular local brand and award-winning actress Phway Phway showcases the unique style of both.

This social enterprise in Mon State serves up delicious local dishes.

Youn Ni Ko, a young Burmese singer-songwriter who grew up in Cyprus, refuses to be confined to a single genre.

ANALYSIS

The NLD’s bill to amend the country’s protest law is the most controversial legislation the party has tried to pass since coming to power. What does it really want?

The projects, which encompass a seaport, three-part highway, high-speed railway and New Yangon City, have the potential to give China a stranglehold of debt over Myanmar.

The events of Sept. 18, 1988, and their bloody aftermath established a military presence in Myanmar’s political life that, three decades later, shows no signs of going away.

The widely expected cabinet reshuffle has serious implications for the government, the economy and the peace process.

In the past, outside pressure has only caused the military to dig in deeper; and there is little support for Rohingya within the country.

IN PERSON

Cheery Zahau, a winner of the UN’s N-Peace Awards for 2017, says gender equality is not only good for women, but for the whole country.

The Irrawaddy spoke with two sector operators about the troubles the Rakhine crisis has caused the country’s tourism sector, and how to get out of the rough patch.

“It was my dream to start up a local publication that reflects local needs, reports on the huge human rights violations and raises people’s concerns,” said Seng Mai Maran.

U Set Aung said Myanmar’s new deal with the SEZ’s Chinese developer would include safeguards against a debt trap and that efforts to reform the overall economy were on track.

Renowned in Myanmar as a pioneer of library science, and honored abroad for his contributions to scholarship, U Thaw Kaung looks back on a life among books.

ARTS

Painter Harn Lay, photographer Sai Kyaw Khaing challenge social mores with their nude studies

“People wear and use them daily, yet no one really values them. They take you wherever you want to go. I just want to make people aware of their value,” said Nyan Ye Naing.

Artist Chuu Wai Nyein’s drive to depict women’s challenges and strengths began with an assault on a family member.

Ne Tun is known for combining traditional Myanmar art with modernist aesthetics. For his latest show he has brought together another unlikely pairing — love and horror.

Bagan’s last remaining bottle painter would love to pass the delicate craft on to a new generation. But he says tastes are changing.

SPECIALS

In these beleaguered times for journalism, The Irrawaddy will continue battling for a free press.

The Irrawaddy offers readers a collection of its stories on the five-day conference, which wrapped up in Naypyitaw on Monday.

The Irrawaddy has compiled several of its past stories, editorials and commentaries on the NLD lawyer’s murder trial, a year on from his assassination.

The Irrawaddy sent reporters to the India-Myanmar border. We share these photos of the region’s cultural diversity and economic vibrancy.

Myanmar’s ties with Japan have been close since Gen. Aung San met with a visiting Japanese military officer in 1940. Here are the key events that have shaped bilateral relations since then.

DATELINE

Irrawaddy English editor Kyaw Zwa Moe, political analyst Yan Myo Thein and human rights activist Cheery Zahau discuss how Myanmar might improve its foreign relations.

The Irrawaddy discusses the latest developments in Myanmar’s peace process and the obstacles impeding progress.

The Irrawaddy discusses prospects for peace and progress in Myanmar with a newly-elected president at the helm.

This week, Dateline Irrawaddy discusses how the Central Bank of Myanmar should handle the weakening exchange rate and its effect on the country.

A UN Security Council delegation visits northern Rakhine for the first time since military clearance operations forced 700,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh.

WOMEN

Women’s rights advocates say the case draws attention to the need to make the city’s streets safer for women.

Public reaction was fast and sharp to a suggestion from the Ministry of Home Affairs that parents urge their daughters to dress modestly to discourage rapists.

Minister U Thein Swe said the policy will take into consideration the country’s optimum population size based on its natural resources, economy, geography, culture and military needs.

Report says increased participation of women in politics could further cement peace agreements and bolster post-conflict rehabilitation.

‘Women in News’ summit also calls attention to lack of safeguards against harassment of female reporters in the field and in the newsroom

LIFESTYLE

Hotels cater to locals who want to get away for a luxury vacation without the added stress of travel, planning and preparation.

From history to adventure to food, Myanmar’s main city offers visitors a unique experience

Never tried the spicy, herb-infused offerings from northern Shan state? Now’s your chance

Looking for something to do after dark? Here are a handful of the trendiest and most popular venues around town

Skate association to send delegation to Vietnam despite lack of official funding, recognition