The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) won an overwhelming majority in Myanmar’s parliament in the 2025-2026 elections. The USDP has been historically backed by Myanmar’s military, which took power in a 2021 coup. Critics argue that this alignment influenced the landslide victory, along with the air attacks and arrests which were made during the election period. The nation’s ongoing civil war, which began in 2021, is characterized by widespread repression and political instability. As presidential elections approach in March, national and international concerns are mounting that the USDP will continue to further cement their authoritarian rule in Myanmar.  

The recent election resulted in the USDP securing over 85% of seats in the lower house and approximately 70% in the upper chamber. Al Jazeera states that large segments of the population were barred from voting either through the denial of citizenship or displacement beyond the country’s borders. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk noted that “many people chose either to vote or not to vote purely out of fear,” underscoring the coercive and hostile environment in which the election took place. 

International responses have been muted in action. The United States has largely stayed silent, stating that it would continue to monitor the situation and encouraging dialogue. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has stepped forward and declared that it will not endorse Myanmar’s electoral process, but the citizens of Myanmar must begin to rely on themselves if they want to see change happen. ASEAN’s consensus-based structure limits any quick and decisive action. In the absence of strong international pressure, the path toward democracy must come from consistent, nonviolent civic engagement. Unity across communities and advocacy are essential to regaining democratic governance and ensuring the world does not overlook this ongoing repression.  

Myanmar has only experienced brief periods of democracy with the most recent period spanning from 2011 to 2021. During that 10-year span, a civilian-led government was established under Aung San Suu Kyi; however, in 2021, a military junta ended this civilian administration by dismantling the elected government and seizing control of parliament. Since this coup, thousands have been killed and approximately 3.6 million displaced, according to the United Nations. The State Administration Council (SAC) is the military junta that assumed power after the 2021 coup, while the USDP is a military-backed political party. In practice, the SAC governs the country directly, while the USDP functions as a political front to provide electoral legitimacy to military rule, since military rule is technically illegal under Myanmar’s constitution.   

The future of Myanmar’s governance is becoming increasingly concerning. Min Aung Hlaing, the military leader who orchestrated the 2021 coup, is positioning himself to become Myanmar’s next president in March. Due to restraints by the current constitution, Min Aung Hlaing would be required to relinquish his title as military leader since he cannot hold those two positions at once. However, he recently signed legislation creating a new Union Consultative Council, which could allow him to wield significant influence over the government without formally taking office, allowing overarching power in both areas.  

This new policy raises implications for the security and safety of Myanmar’s citizens. By altering constitutional structures for personal and military advantage, Min Aung Hlaing is consolidating power and undermining the rule of law. The situation emphasizes the urgent need for both national and international collaboration to protect human rights, support democratic processes, and provide humanitarian aid. Immediate action is critical to prevent the continued repression of the Myanmar people.