Insight Myanmar

The Out of Eden Walk landed Paul Salopek in Myanmar in early 2020, when he crossed from northeastern India, traversing jungle mountains and crossing the Irrawaddy River. His route eventually took him into the heart of the country, accompanied by ethnic Chin and Lisu walking partners. Initially focused on cultural and historical storytelling, Paul found himself unprepared for the upheaval that would soon unfold... https://lnkd.in/dbjEQumd

“There?is absolutely something different about Myanmar,” says Derek Mitchell. “When I was ambassador, and people would come visit, they always said it was the most fascinating place they'd ever been in their lives. I think everybody who does work on Myanmar has a story about what it was that connected them, that when you when it touches you—even diplomats—they always look back on the Burma assignment as being somehow special. There's something about the place and about the issue that sticks with people. So when it goes through its unfortunate cycles of tragedy, I always say it breaks the heart of every person that touches it, because the country deserves so much better.” Derek Mitchell’s engagement with Myanmar began unexpectedly in the early 1990s. It wasn’t through deliberate career planning but rather a serendipitous encounter: unemployed at the time, he attended a human rights event featuring Aung San Suu Kyi, who had just received an award. Inspired, he picked up a copy of her book, Freedom from Fear, that evening and read it cover to cover. He never thought that Burma would be relevant to his career; however, years later, he became very involved with the country. A brand-new episode is out! ??? Episode #317, The Usual Suspects, delivers powerful narratives and eye-opening discussions. Don’t miss it—tune in now: https://lnkd.in/e5NuXg6g

1,500 days too many. For over four years, Myanmar’s people have endured dictatorship, violence, and unimaginable loss. Communities have been destroyed, countless lives taken, and basic freedoms stripped away. Yet, despite it all, the fight for democracy continues. Every day, ordinary citizens, activists, and resistance groups risk everything to stand against oppression. Their courage deserves more than words—it demands action. The world cannot afford to look away. Silence emboldens dictators. Awareness drives change. Let’s stand in solidarity, amplify their voices, and push for accountability. Myanmar’s struggle for justice is far from over. #MyanmarCrisis #StandWithMyanmar #JusticeForMyanmar #DemocracyForMyanmar #EndTheDictatorship #HumanRightsMatter #SaveMyanmar #VoicesForFreedom #AccountabilityNow #StopTheViolence

This was the first time I recorded a podcast with zero preparation. Joah said we'll just have a chat and I had been so busy so I said, "Sure". Until the day came and I realised not having any notes to refer back to was a really bad idea for a perfectionist. I kept worrying about missing important points. So apologies for all the "umm"s and "ahh"s and "you know"s and my long-winded answers, but it also turned out to be as close to a real-life conversation as I've had with many friends over a glass (or three) of wine. So I hope you find some parts of it interesting. Also, we did this interview before the dismantling of the U.S. aid infrastructure and I just want to reiterate the precarious futures now faced by so many brave and brilliant Burmese journalists and civil society groups. Please support them as much as you can.

Insight Myanmar's podcast with our co-founder.