By Maung Dagon / MPA
Myanmar’s Information Ministry has issued a warning to licensed media outlets and pro-military lobbyists, stating that it will take action against any publications or statements that tarnish the image of the military, local journalists report.
This warning comes amidst growing criticism of the military on social media, including from its own supporters, following significant losses such as the surrender of two regional military commands in 2024.
A journalist working for a local media outlet explained, “The junta has issued warnings to avoid publishing content that could harm the regime or the military, especially what they claim to be false news. They also seem intent on silencing even military-aligned channels from criticizing them.”
The junta’s directives specifically prohibit the publication of content that could disrupt national stability or support armed resistance movements.
The warning reads, “Media professionals are strictly prohibited from producing content that encourages or supports violent actors, spreads fear among the public, or undermines national peace and stability. Noncompliance will result in action under existing laws.”
As a result, licensed domestic media outlets are exercising increased caution when reporting on the ongoing conflict and internal matters.
“We used to write openly about military defeats,” explained another journalist. “Now, we must carefully strategize how to publish this content. The warnings are vague, so they interpret them however they want and detain people as they please.”
The military junta has also intensified censorship measures, banning content it deems a threat to public order or culturally inappropriate, including music video (MTV) productions.
In 2024, several artists, such as Achit Khan Kyi, Saunt Pat, and Beer Bike, were issued arrest warrants and detained under the pretext of producing lyrics that were deemed culturally inappropriate.
According to people working in arts and media, social media posts are frequently flagged by authorities for allegedly tarnishing the military’s image or violating cultural norms, leading to their removal.
“Even art-related news is under close scrutiny,” reported a local arts journalist. “We can’t publish content just because it’s popular or widely viewed. If it offends the military, we inevitably face trouble.”
Myanmar remains one of the ten worst countries in the world for press freedom. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), more than five journalists have been killed by the junta, and over 130 have been arrested since the military coup.
