The coup Junta's enforcement of conscription laws has prompted a significant influx of young individuals, opposed to military service under the Junta, into armed resistance groups.
Following the Junta's announcement of the activation of the conscription law on February 10, numerous young individuals sought refuge abroad through various means, while others opted to join the revolt against the Junta, by joining armed resistance movements.
At the first batch of enrollment and basic training graduation on June 8, the Joephyu resistance force declared, "We will stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies until the last moment for the armed revolution. This is a pivotal stride in our battle against the military dictatorship and the establishment of a new federal democratic union.”
Based on the released photos, over 20 young individuals participated in the basic training program, spanning approximately two months.
In addition to the demanding physical training designed to cultivate fitness and resilience among the young trainees, they were also instructed in essential political concepts from a psychological perspective.
Joephyu, an armed resistance faction, operates primarily in Ywangan and Pindaya townships located in southern Shan State.
The Joephyu resistance force has issued warnings and initiated actions against ward administrators who are exploiting the Junta's conscription law to intimidate the public.
"We have sent warning letters to administrators aligned with the Junta, aiming to convince them through words as much as we can”, a Joephyu resistance fighter said.
Similarly, in Hsihseng town in southern Shan State, following the Junta's enforcement of the conscription law and drafting locals into military service, some young people joined the Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLA), which is waging war against the Junta.
"Some young people joined us after the Junta enacted the conscription law”, a PNLA officer confirmed. Meanwhile in June, the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF) established the 8th Tactical Command, aiming to intensify operations near the Junta's stronghold in Naypyidaw.
Under the 8th Tactical Command, KNDF will form the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th battalions, with primary military operations focused in Pekon, Paunglaung, and Pinlaung. In May, KNDF expanded its operations in Demoso and Loikaw by forming the 7th Tactical Command.
Facing a series of setbacks on nearly all the frontlines nationwide, and a severe manpower shortage, the Junta has activated the conscription law as a desperate measure. However, there have been incidents where forcibly recruited young people have run away during military training.
