Asymmetry or Equality? Ethnic Nationalities in a Bamar-Dominated State. A Country Study of Constitutional Asymmetry in Myanmar

Abstract

The post-colonial state of Myanmar (then Burma) was born some 70 years ago following a deal between representatives of the majority Bamar ethnic group and three ethnic nationalities. This agreement was the basis of the initial strongly asymmetrical federal system, and much of the distrust between Bamar and other ethnic nationalities, who were promised equality. Internal conflict erupted at independence and continues. In 1974, the military tried to restore stability with a symmetrical quasi-federal constitution, but without political parties. Still, it formed the basis of a 2008 constitution that incorporated a “managed transition” to democracy yet reintroduced some asymmetry through the addition of self-administered areas. This constitution is subject to a reform process. At each stage, the federal structures were driven by the demands of ethnic nationalities for self-determination and recognition of their pre-existing political status. However, the promise of ethnic equality remains unmet and political asymmetries remain significant.