Reconstructing Power: Gender, Resistance in Post-Coup Myanmar

Abstract

Myanmar has experienced decades of military dictatorship, and decision-making power is primarily male-dominated. The 2020 election achieved the highest number of female politicians in the country's history, but their overall representation remained limited. Accordingly, Myanmar's democratisation is expected to have greater participation by women and their active inclusion in the decision-making process. Following the 2021 coup, many citizens joined anti-military resistance, including women who engaged in frontline resistance. Still, it remains uncertain whether this resistance will lead to substantive change to patriarchal social structures. This study examines whether the resistance after the 2021 coup in Myanmar challenges or reconstructs existing gendered power structures.  The findings show that women are mostly described as victims of military violence, while their roles as political actors are rarely recognised. Although promoting gender equality and supporting women's empowerment are mentioned by anti-military groups, an analysis of officially released documents shows that women are primarily viewed as subjects in need of protection. Furthermore, these movements also lack clear, concrete plans to achieve gender equality. This paper argues that strengthening women's political participation is crucial for Myanmar's future and will play a vital role in confronting the military.