Myanmar author speaks: Forging freedom through critical thinkingーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Independent Thinking: The core principle advocated by Matida, crucial for resistance and democratic transformation.
• Conscious Learning: Utilizing literature and reading to broaden perspectives and foster critical analysis.
• Spring Revolution Movement: The ongoing pro-democracy movement in Myanmar aiming for a fair and inclusive society.
• Creative Dissent: Taking action and challenging oppressive systems through innovative and conscious efforts.
• Education as Resistance: Viewing education, particularly literature, as a powerful tool against authoritarianism.

The Importance of Independent Thought & Education: Matida’s Message from Myanmar

This details the recent visit of award-winning author and former political prisoner, Matida, to Japan, and the core message she shared with the Myanmar community regarding the power of education and independent thought in resisting oppression. Matida’s experiences, spanning decades of political activism and imprisonment, form the foundation of her advocacy.

Matida’s Background & Activism

Matida, a writer and doctor, was imprisoned for over five years in the 1990s for her involvement in the pro-democracy movement, which began during her time in medical school in 1988. Her memoir, Prisoner of Conscience: My Steps Through Insane, details the oppressive nature of military rule in Myanmar and the suppression of free thought. Following the 2021 military coup, she left Myanmar and currently chairs a committee within a global writers association, based in Berlin.

The Power of Literature & Critical Thinking

Matida’s lectures emphasize the transformative power of reading. She posits that exposure to diverse perspectives – “different people, different society, different system, different government and different idea and different opinion” – is essential for developing independent thought and exercising freedom of speech. As she stated, “Through literature, we can be exposed to the different people…you know when we talk about the freedom of opinion and freedom of speech, if we know more opinions…we can choose our own opinion easily.” During her imprisonment, reading provided her with hope and a vision for the future, serving as a “bomb” that allowed her to imagine a better life.

Promoting Free Exchange of Ideas & Early Efforts

After Myanmar’s brief transition to civilian rule in 2011, Matida established a Myanmar chapter of PEN International, an organization dedicated to writers and freedom of expression. She organized unprecedented events that facilitated direct dialogue between writers and ordinary citizens, providing a platform for open discussion and the practice of free speech. Participants were deeply moved, having “never ever thought they would be listened to” or given the opportunity to express themselves freely.

The Coup & the Need for Conscious Action

The 2021 military coup reversed these gains, plunging Myanmar back into oppression. Matida highlights that despite a brief period of increased freedom, many Myanmar citizens have been subjected to a long-term, top-down education system that discourages independent thought. She stresses the importance of “focus[ing] our own actions” and being “creative and conscious” in pursuing democratic goals, believing that perseverance will ultimately lead to success.

Real-World Impact & the Spring Revolution

Leo, a member of the group that invited Matida to Japan, exemplifies the impact of her message. He participated in protests against the junta but fled to Japan after witnessing violence against fellow protestors. He now dedicates his resources to supporting his family in Myanmar and providing educational opportunities for internally displaced children, who are facing severe hardship, including food insecurity. Schools run by civilian resistance groups are being deliberately targeted and destroyed by the military.

Matida’s 2024 book, Amaze, focuses on the struggles and resilience of the younger generation in Myanmar, who are actively fighting against the coup through the Spring Revolution Movement. This movement aims to establish a democratic society with a fair and inclusive education system that fosters critical thinking.

The Importance of Consent & Voter Power

Matida powerfully asserts that “Without our consent, nobody can govern us,” emphasizing the fundamental principle of democracy where the power resides with the voters, not the candidates. She expresses pride in the Myanmar people for recognizing this principle and believes that continued resistance will ultimately lead to victory: “As long as we don’t give up, we win.” Despite the junta’s claims of a transition to civilian rule through a recent election, Matida believes they are actually tightening their grip on power.

Conclusion

Matida’s message underscores the vital role of education, particularly the cultivation of independent thought and critical analysis, as a powerful tool for resistance against authoritarianism. Her experiences and the ongoing struggles in Myanmar demonstrate the importance of conscious action, creative dissent, and unwavering perseverance in the pursuit of a democratic and equitable future. The Spring Revolution Movement, fueled by the younger generation’s determination and a renewed focus on education, represents a beacon of hope for Myanmar.