Why do analysts call Myanmar’s civil war the most fragmented in the world?

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Myanmar's Civil War is Characterised by Extreme Fragmentation

Analysts refer to Myanmar's civil war as the most fragmented globally due to the sheer number of distinct armed groups involved, exceeding 1,200 registered by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED) monitoring group. This fragmentation stems from a long history of ethnic minority resistance to central rule, compounded by the emergence of numerous pro-democracy guerrilla factions following the 2021 military coup. The conflict has thus evolved into a complex web of various forces operating across the entire country.
Proliferation of Armed Groups

The conflict landscape in Myanmar is marked by an exceptionally high number of distinct fighting entities. ACLED data indicates that over 1,200 separate armed groups are active participants in the ongoing civil war. This extensive division into numerous factions contributes significantly to the perception of the conflict as the most fragmented worldwide.
Historical Roots of Ethnic Resistance

A foundational element contributing to the conflict's fragmentation lies in the long-standing struggle of ethnic minority armies against central government control. These groups have historically operated with a degree of autonomy and have long resisted assimilation or dominance by the central Bamar-led administration. Their continued engagement in the current conflict adds a significant layer to the fragmented nature of the war.
Emergence of Pro-Democracy Forces

The military coup in February 2021 catalysed the formation of new armed actors. Following the violent suppression of anti-putsch protests, activists and citizens began forming pro-democracy guerrilla groups. These new factions joined forces with established ethnic minority armies, further diversifying and fragmenting the opposition to the ruling military junta.

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Why do analysts call Myanmar’s civil war the most fragmented in the world?

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