The Oppressed People of Burma Burma, like many other Southeast Asian nations, is a land rich in culture and diversity of ethnic groups. Unfortunately, unlike the people of other nations, the Burmese people have been deprived of their human rights. Since the military junta took over the Burmese government in 1988, the Burmese people have been among the most oppressed in the world. The continuation of government brutality has attracted the attention of many outside nations around the world who have increasingly intervened in Burma's problems to help its people. Because these events represent an important issue for the people of Burma, these problems are not limited to its borders. They are also becoming a problem for some of Burma's neighboring countries, such as Thailand. Taking a quick look at current events, it is clear that the oppression of natives in Burma is still in its most intense phase. But first, an introduction to Burma's background will spark interest in how a culturally rich country could transform into a land full of people seeking their basic human right: freedom. Burma is considered the land of rice and teak wood, in addition to being rich in many other natural resources. The official language is Burmese and the major religions include Buddhism, Christianity and Islam. A population of 49.5 million inhabits the territory, in an area of ​​261,789 square miles. The ethnic composition is made up of the Burmese, the Shan, the Karn, the Mon, the Chin, the Kachin, as well as a significant population of Indians and Chinese who emigrated from their respective lands of origin. (Compton Encyclopedia) Three-quarters of the population lives in rural areas. In recent decades, Burma has been... middle of paper... Larry. “ASEAN is under pressure to use its influence.” Bangkok Post. May 15, 2003. May 21, 2003. http://www.bangkokpost.com/150503_News/15May2003_news24.htmlMydans, Seth. “Burmese officials deny that the dissident was injured.” Herald International Tribune. June 4, 2003. June 4, 2003. http://www.iht.com/articles/98436.htmlSrivalo, Piyanart. “Drugs are at the center of talks between Thailand and Burma.” Asian Tribune. December 30, 2003. May 14, 2003. http://www.asiantribune.com/show_news.php?id=1745Tammachatwichit, Tavorn. "The pipeline." May 17, 2003. http://www.ibiblio.org/freeburma/boycott/oil/pipeline2.htmlThe Nation, “Door Closed on Refugees.” Asian Tribune. December 20, 2002. May 14, 2003. http://www.asiantribune.com/show_news.php?id=1748Theparat, Chatrudee. “Thailand to unveil hub goal at summit.” Bangkok Post. May 5, 2003. May 21, 2003. http://www.bangkokpost.com/050503_Business/05May2003_biz45.html