Security Overview for Burma

Crime
Due to a pervasive security presence, the law and order situation is generally favorable in Myanmarese cities, but this may not be the case in rural areas, particularly in states with active insurgencies. Serious crimes against foreigners are uncommon, street crime is a potential problem in Yangon, Mandalay, and other major population centers. Petty theft constitutes the greatest threat to visitors. Violent crimes targeting Westerners are rare, but this is partly because the expatriate community is small and the country does not draw many non-Asian visitors. Observing common sense security precautions such as traveling in groups and avoiding unfamiliar areas after dark will help mitigate risk.

Civil Unrest
Myanmar's military leadership has traditionally gone to great lengths to stifle dissent, and civil unrest has historically not been a serious problem in the country since the late 1980s. Demonstrations are illegal, and police move quickly to break up unsanctioned rallies. Most of these incidents involve a very small number of protesters - typically pro-democracy activists - who stage symbolic rallies at prominent administrative buildings or tourist attractions. Widespread anti-government unrest during the Buddhist monk-led "Saffron Revolution" in 2007 was an aberration, although pro-democracy activism may become more pronounced in the future.

Insurgencies and Opposition Groups
Myanmar has a diverse population. Many ethnic minorities have long struggled for independence or greater autonomy in various parts of the country. The State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) junta signed ceasefire agreements with numerous ethnically based political organizations and militia groups to pave the way for general elections in November 2010. Several major groups refused to lay down arms, however, and periodic fighting is possible in a number of areas, including Karen (Kayin), Karenni (Kayah), Kachin, Chin, Mon, and Shan states. Avoiding border areas is advisable.

Bombings and other acts of politically motivated violence occur, but they generally do not pose much of a threat to foreigners. In the 2000s, the SPDC blamed ethnic militants and pro-democracy activists for most of these attacks, many of which were low-yield bombings in Yangon and other cities and towns throughout the Bamar-populated Irrawady (Ayerwaddy) Basin in central part of the country. Bombing targets have included major markets, transport centers, buses, trains, and various local government offices.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.