Article: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-56222987
The military rulers that recently overthrew the democratic government in Myanmar have fired Kyaw Moe Tun, the ambassador to the United Nations, after he spoke out against the military. He had urged the international community to do whatever is necessary to restore power to the democratically elected government.
Kyaw Moe Tun’s removal was announced with the statement that he “ betrayed the country and spoke for an unofficial organization which doesn’t represent the country” and “abused the power and responsibilities” of an ambassador. In addition, Myanmar has been experiencing mass protests against the coup and protestors have been met with tear gas and rubber bullets. Local media has also reported that a woman was shot at a protest, but this hasn’t been confirmed.
This article is extremely important for the state of Myanmar and the region. Currently, Kyaw Moe Tun’s firing has not been confirmed or accepted by the United Nations and the international community may also have to determine the validity if he decides to stay on as ambassador. This means the UN General Assembly which includes 9 countries, some being realm powers such as Russia, China, and the United States, will need to determine the next steps. This could lead to a concerning discussion between the US and China based on how these countries decide to intervene. There is always the possibility that the two will clash on the issue and lead to worsened conflict, but at the moment that is only speculative.
From the liberal perspective, the core of reciprocity is established through international institutions such as the United Nations and the organization’s focus should be on diplomacy. Thus, the UN should intervene in this conflict. Liberal democracy also pushes for the UN’s intervention against the military coup. The military has overtaken the democratic government and liberal theory states actions need to be taken to restore peace and promote democracy.