Patterns of Persistent Praetorian Behaviors

This chapter shifts its focus away from the euphoric optimism that emerged after 2011 and instead looks at one of the more enduring realities of contemporary Myanmar: the continuing dominance of the military institution despite the disbanding of the junta in 2011. The Tatmadaw remains a key policy actor as the “last resort decision-maker” in the new post-junta hybrid system. As crises emerge, threats escalate and local contentious politics grow uncontrollable, the armed forces continue to decisively intervene. The Tatmadaw has also secured a “post-junta” legislative role through the constitutional reservation of a quarter of all new parliamentary seats. This chapter reviews the various policy and legislative functions performed by the Tatmadaw in the new constitution order, evaluating the effects of its lingering influence.