Myanmar Students in Australia Face Uncertain Future Amidst Conscription and Political Turmoil
Myanmar students studying in Australia are facing a difficult dilemma as they approach graduation. With a military coup and civil war raging in their home country, they fear being forced to return and contribute to a regime they oppose.
Eden, an international student whose name has been changed for her protection, expressed the anxieties of many Myanmar students. "People are angry and feeling anxious and hopeless," she said.
The Australia Awards program, which funded Eden's studies, requires recipients to return to their home country for at least two years after graduation. However, with conscription now enforced in Myanmar, students like Eden fear being compelled to use their skills to support the military government.
Professor Nick Cheesman from the ANU Myanmar Research Centre highlighted the potential consequences. "Australia Awards scholars who return to Myanmar would be eligible to be recruited by the military," he said. "And in the event that that happens, then the Australian taxpayer will have footed the bill for expertise that the Myanmar military can now draw down on."
The Australian government has expressed concern over the situation in Myanmar and has imposed sanctions against the military regime. However, advocates like Dr Tun-Aung Shwe, representing Myanmar's National Unity Government, call for stronger action to prevent human rights abuses.
With graduation approaching, academics, advocates, and students are seeking solutions to avoid the students' forced return and potential conscription. Eden, despite the fear and uncertainty, remains hopeful. "I dream of contributing to a future where we can all apply our skills and knowledge, more ethically and effectively when it is safe to go back home.