Youth-led social cohesion initiatives gain momentum across Arakan State

Burma News International (BNI) is a network of 15 independent media and news organizations based in and around Burma Youth-led initiatives aimed at fostering social cohesion are gaining momentum across Arakan State through informal dialogues and cultural exchange platforms, bringing together young leaders from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds. In late August, approximately 100 youth participants—including Arakanese, Mro, Chakma, Khami, Muslim, and Hindu representatives—assembled in Kyauktaw Township for a cross-community networking event. “The objective is to strengthen youth participation in the development of Arakan State,” said one of the event organizers. “We organized this to build closer relationships among local youth, with the ultimate goal of fostering long-term peace, stability, and development.” During the session, participants engaged in open discussions, sharing traditional customs to bridge historical divides and build mutual respect. Participants noted that these dialogues are yielding tangible improvements in inter-community relations, serving as an effective tool to reduce local friction. “Muslim communities have historically coexisted alongside other groups in Arakan State for generations,” said Ko Maung Maung Than, a Muslim participant. “Opportunities to exchange cultural traditions significantly strengthen social cohesion. Sustaining these platforms will help reduce conflict and restore trust.” While praising community-driven efforts, attendees emphasized that institutional support is equally vital for lasting stability. They called on the United League of Arakan (ULA) to prioritize minority rights and embed social cohesion strategies into its broader administrative policies. “Officials serving under the ULA must pay close attention to ethnic minority groups and actively promote social cohesion,” said Ko Aung Lin, a Chakma youth representative. Similar youth gatherings are now taking place regularly across Maungdaw District. The Arakan Army (AA) has stated that building inter-community trust remains a key priority while actively attempting to involve diverse ethnic groups in its emerging administrative structure.