What risks do young people face in Yangon at night?

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Young People in Yangon Face Risks of Arbitrary Detention and Increased Unsafe Feelings at Night

Young people in Yangon experience heightened safety concerns at night, primarily driven by the fear of arbitrary detention or abduction for conscription by military or other armed groups. This pervasive anxiety has led to a significant increase in the feeling of unsafety, with a reported 40 percent of young individuals now feeling "unsafe" or "very unsafe" walking alone after dark, a rate that has more than doubled since the 2021 coup. Consequently, Yangon's streets become largely deserted by late evening as residents avoid venturing out.
Fear of Conscription and Arbitrary Detention

A primary risk for young people in Yangon is the potential for arbitrary detention or abduction, particularly for conscription into the military or other armed factions. This fear contributes to a general atmosphere of unease that permeates daily life, influencing decisions about movement and social activities, especially after nightfall. The ongoing conflict and instability in Myanmar since the 2021 coup have exacerbated these security anxieties.
Doubled Rate of Feeling Unsafe at Night

According to a 2025 United Nations report, the perception of safety among young people in Yangon has drastically deteriorated. The proportion of those feeling "unsafe" or "very unsafe" when walking alone at night has more than doubled, reaching 40 percent. This statistic reflects a significant shift in the lived experience of youth in the city, indicating a substantial decline in their sense of personal security after dark.
Deserted Streets Due to Safety Concerns

The palpable fear for personal safety has a direct impact on the urban landscape of Yangon. By late evening, the city's streets are notably deserted, a stark contrast to previous times. This phenomenon underscores the extent to which safety concerns dictate public behaviour and limit nocturnal activity, as individuals opt to remain indoors rather than risk encountering danger on the streets.

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What risks do young people face in Yangon at night?

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