"Kachin human rights network demands permanent scrapping of Myitsone dam project", 4 April 2026

The Kachin State Human Rights Defenders Network (KSHRDN) issued a formal statement …, calling for the permanent cancellation of the Myitsone Dam project.

The appeal comes as the junta moves to revive the long-suspended $3.6 billion megaproject, which has faced fierce national opposition since its inception in 2009.

The KSHRDN strongly condemned the military’s attempts to restart the project during a period of intense political instability and nationwide conflict, urging the junta to respect the will of the general public and immediately cease all forms of intimidation, including threats of legal action against those who openly oppose the dam.

In addition, KSHRDN voiced deep concern that the Myitsone Dam Project could lead to further displacement, at a time when hundreds of thousands of people in Kachin State are already displaced due to armed conflict.

KSHRDN added that attempting to build the Myitsone Dam in Kachin State, a region long affected by armed conflict would further undermine trust among various stakeholders and could spark unnecessary conflict in the future.

The KSHRDN, a coalition established in 2025 and made up of six member organizations, works to protect and promote the human rights of people living in Kachin State.

The Myitsone Dam Project was originally launched in 2009 under the previous military regime but was suspended in 2011 during President Thein Sein’s administration due to widespread public opposition. Currently, the junta is seeking to restart the project and have warned that action may be taken against those who oppose it…