Publication

This report examines the rise of Buddhist nationalism and anti-Muslim violence in Myanmar, focusing particularly on the role of the country’s largest Buddhist nationalist organization, the Association for Protection of Race and Religion (MaBaTha). The text specifically looks at 1) the historical roots and contemporary drivers fueling Buddhist nationalist sentiments in Myanmar; 2) MaBaTha’s origins and subsequent accumulation of political power; 3) what is behind MaBaTha’s social appeal and popularity; and 4) the looming threat of a confrontation between Buddhist nationalists and state authorities