Introduction
The Rohingya crisis in Myanmar is a specific example where religious ideas and the concept of evil have been utilized in a manner that has led to immense suffering for a vulnerable population. The Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim ethnic minority group in Myanmar, have faced persecution, violence, and displacement at the hands of the Myanmar government and Buddhist majority .This paper explores how religious ideas of exclusion and superiority, combined with historical colonialism and social pressures, have contributed to the crisis. We will examine the relationship between power, religion, and authority, the functionality of the practice for the society that practices it, and possibilities for a non-violent solution.
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Religious Ideas and the Concept of Evil in the Rohingya Crisis
The religious ideas underlying the Rohingya crisis are deeply ingrained in the historical context of Myanmar. The dominant Buddhist majority perceives itself as the preserver of the nation’s cultural and religious identity, and this perception often translates into the exclusion of minority groups, including the Rohingya (Soutik, 2018). These religious ideas are reinforced by nationalist narratives that portray the Rohingya as outsiders and a threat to the purity of the Buddhist nation (Makki, 2018). The concept of “evil” has been instrumentalized to dehumanize the Rohingya, labeling them as dangerous elements that need to be eradicated from the country.
The manipulation of religious ideas and the concept of evil has created a dangerous atmosphere of hatred and animosity towards the Rohingya community. Religious leaders and influential figures have used their authority to disseminate prejudiced interpretations of religious texts, justifying discrimination and violence against the Rohingya (Wade, 2019). This highlights the intricate relationship between power, religion, and authority in the perpetuation of the crisis.
Relationship Between Power, Religion, and Authority
In the context of the Rohingya crisis, the relationship between power, religion, and authority is evident in the way religious figures and institutions are entwined with the ruling regime. The Myanmar government, controlled by military and political elites, has strategically utilized Buddhism as a tool to consolidate its power (Myat, 2020). Buddhist monks, who hold significant moral authority in the society, have been co-opted by the government to endorse its policies and justify the persecution of the Rohingya (Foley, 2020). This intertwining of power and religion has effectively strengthened the authority of the ruling regime and legitimized its discriminatory actions.
Functionality of the Practice
From the perspective of the Myanmar government, the persecution of the Rohingya serves several functional purposes. Firstly, it diverts attention from internal challenges and grievances against the ruling regime (Ansari, 2021). By redirecting public anger towards an external enemy, the government can maintain control over its population and divert blame away from its own mismanagement. Secondly, it reinforces the sense of nationalism and unity among the Buddhist majority, fostering a perception that the Rohingya pose a threat to the nation’s cultural and religious heritage (Karim, 2019).
However, while this practice may serve the interests of the government in the short term, it has led to significant social, economic, and diplomatic costs. The systematic persecution and violence against the Rohingya have triggered a massive refugee crisis, with hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fleeing to neighboring countries (Ahmed, 2019). This has strained regional relations and placed a burden on neighboring nations. Moreover, the international community has heavily condemned Myanmar’s actions, leading to sanctions and a tarnished global image for the country (Abdullah, 2021). The functionality of this practice, therefore, appears to be unsustainable in the long run.
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Causes of the Situation and Possibilities for Non-violent Solutions
The causes of the Rohingya crisis are multi-faceted and deeply rooted in the historical and social dynamics of Myanmar. One of the significant factors contributing to the crisis is the legacy of colonialism, which sowed the seeds of division among different ethnic and religious groups (Abdullah, 2021). Additionally, decades of military rule and authoritarianism have fostered an environment of discrimination and marginalization against minority communities.
Non-violent solutions to the crisis require addressing these underlying causes. Firstly, the government must engage in meaningful dialogue with the Rohingya community and other minority groups, seeking their inclusion in the political process and decision-making (Karim, 2019). Secondly, Myanmar needs to address economic disparities and ensure equitable distribution of resources to reduce competition and conflict over land and livelihoods (Myat, 2020). Lastly, regional and international actors should play a role in mediating talks between Myanmar and the Rohingya community, providing support for reconciliation and humanitarian aid (Ansari, 2021).
Impact of Cultural Change, Religious Conflict, and Cultural Imperialism
The Rohingya crisis has profoundly impacted the cultural fabric of Myanmar, exacerbating existing religious conflicts and reinforcing cultural imperialism. The rise of Buddhist nationalism has led to a narrowing of the definition of Myanmar’s national identity, with Buddhism central to it (Foley, 2020). This has excluded and oppressed other religious communities, including the Rohingya, from participating in the nation’s cultural and social life.
The conflict has also resulted in a wave of cultural imperialism, where the dominant group imposes its culture and values on the minority population. The Rohingya have faced forced assimilation and attempts to erase their cultural identity as part of the persecution (Soutik, 2018). This cultural imperialism has had severe psychological and social consequences, leading to trauma and loss of cultural heritage among the Rohingya.
Adaptations of Religion to Social Pressures
Amidst social pressures and persecution, the Rohingya community has demonstrated remarkable resilience in preserving their religious and cultural practices. Despite facing violence and displacement, they have sought to maintain their religious rituals and traditions, providing a sense of continuity and identity (Hussein, 2018). These adaptations are essential for the community’s psychological well-being and cultural survival, allowing them to withstand the challenges posed by the crisis.
Role of Fundamentalism and Witchcraft Accusations
The Rohingya crisis has witnessed the rise of religious fundamentalism among some Buddhist groups in Myanmar. Ultra-nationalist Buddhist organizations have contributed to the spread of anti-Rohingya sentiments, further fueling animosity and violence (Ahmed, 2019). These groups have utilized religious ideas and symbols to propagate their extremist views and justify their actions.
Additionally, the crisis has seen instances of accusing the Rohingya of practicing witchcraft and black magic, adding to the demonization and dehumanization of the community (Ahmed, 2019). Such accusations not only reinforce existing prejudices but also serve as a pretext for violence and discrimination against the Rohingya.
Applied Anthropology’s Potential Contribution
Applied anthropology can play a vital role in understanding the complexities of the Rohingya crisis and facilitating reconciliation and sustainable solutions. Engaging with affected communities and conducting ethnographic research can provide valuable insights into the cultural dynamics and perspectives of all stakeholders (Osman, 2021). Anthropologists can act as mediators, fostering dialogue between conflicting parties and promoting mutual understanding. Moreover, anthropological expertise can contribute to the design and implementation of humanitarian interventions that respect the cultural rights and needs of the Rohingya community (Osman, 2021).
Conclusion
The Rohingya crisis demonstrates how religious ideas, combined with historical colonialism and social pressures, can be used to justify violence and persecution. The complex interplay between power, religion, and authority has led to the marginalization and dehumanization of the Rohingya community. Addressing the root causes of the crisis and seeking non-violent solutions are crucial to achieving reconciliation and lasting peace. Applied anthropology offers valuable tools and approaches to understand the cultural context and contribute to resolving the crisis while respecting the rights and identities of the affected communities.
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References
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Ahmed, R. (2019). Rohingya: History of a Muslim Identity in Myanmar. I.B.Tauris.
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Foley, J. E. (2020). Buddhism and Violence in Myanmar. In Religion, Violence, and Peacebuilding (pp. 75-96). Brill.
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