NAYPYIDAW — Myanmar's military has regained territory from rebel forces in several areas as forced conscription has bolstered its ranks, reversing some earlier losses in the ongoing conflict.
The junta, which seized power in a 2021 coup, began enforcing a conscription law in 2024, drafting tens of thousands of men into service. Resistance groups that were on the offensive in much of the country are now largely on the defensive, according to reports from the battlefield.
In many regions, the military has retaken key townships and a critical road linking Mandalay to Myitkyina in the north. Rebel commanders have acknowledged that the influx of conscripts has provided the junta with significant manpower advantages.
"The reality is that, despite the reluctance of these four unwilling recruits, the military's forced conscription policy has shifted the junta's fortunes in the civil war," BBC correspondent Quentin Sommerville reported, citing accounts from deserters and resistance fighters.
A PDF battalion commander identified as Ko Kaung told the BBC that forced conscription had become the main challenge on the battlefield by enabling the military with "limitless manpower."
The military, which controls less than half the country, has used the additional troops alongside air strikes and other tactics to stabilize front lines and launch counteroffensives. Conscription targets men aged 18-35 and has reportedly added around 100,000 recruits since enforcement began, though exact figures remain difficult to verify independently.
Rebel groups, including People's Defense Forces and ethnic armed organizations, have faced challenges including shortages of weapons and manpower. Some alliances have withdrawn from certain positions, partly due to supply issues and external pressures.
The conflict, which escalated after the 2021 coup that ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, has displaced millions and caused thousands of deaths, according to United Nations estimates. Both sides have reported casualties, though comprehensive independent tallies are not available.
The military has not commented publicly on recent battlefield developments in detail. Resistance forces continue operations in various regions, with recent clashes reported in areas such as Sagaing.
As of Wednesday, the situation on multiple fronts remains fluid. Details on the full extent of territorial changes and the current status of specific operations were not immediately clear. International observers continue to monitor the conflict amid calls for greater transparency and accountability.
