Due to the recent coup in Myanmar, Bermese citizens of Tokyo have taken to the streets to protest, and demand that their government becomes more involved in helping the crisis. Myanmar and Japan have always been close in their relations, through military and democratic rule. After the coup this past week, the Japanese government has failed to make a statement condemning the coup or promising help, rather they’ve simply made vague comments regarding the status of the country and their watching of it. The citizens of Japan demand larger action and aid to the country of Myanmar from their government. It would also be smart for the government to provide aid, or even simply become involved in the situation in Myanmar, since a cut of ties between the two could lead to Myanmar becoming much closer to China.
The situation in Myanmar is concerning for citizens around the world, because of the nature of the country’s new democracy and the authoritativeness of the military. The show of support from fellow Bermese people shows hope for Japan’s anticipated intervention in the situation. With increased pressure from their citizens, it’s hopeful that the government will decide to become involved in Myanmar’s crisis and hopefully help return order to the country. Japan would likely not be able to do this alone, however. If countries are to become involved it’s likely we will see intervention from western UN members such as the UK, the US, and more. Direct intervention from the UN is also speculated, as the coup and military reign could escalate into a humanitarian crisis.
When observing a country in a state of crisis, it’s extremely easy to relate outside intervention to liberal theory. Liberalist ideology lies in the ideas of reciprocity and moral obligation. The involvement of Japan, as well as other countries, would be based on the moral obligation those governments hold to aid the people of Myanmar and restore democracy. The restoration of democracy is also a big factor of liberal ideology, as the more democracies worldwide there are, the less conflict there will be. Especially in the case of the ties between Japan and Myanmar vs. the ties between China and Myanmar, if there is to be a shift, this could mean bad things for the status of democracy in Myanmar.