Myanmar has been racked by internal conflict for decades, most recently a 2021 military coup, which sparked widespread armed opposition, leading to revolution. Different civilian militias, loosely organized into the People’s Defense Forces (PDF), escalated resistance in 2024.
The photographer lived through a 1988 military coup, aged six, and saw history repeat itself when his own son was six in 2021. He has since traveled across the country, documenting different insurgent groups, and observing how their determination brings hope in dark times.
Are you a photographer and/or passionate about press freedom? Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our annual contest and to hear about exhibitions near you.
2025 Photo Contest - Asia-Pacific and Oceania - Stories
A Nation in Conflict
Photographer
Ye Aung Thu
Shutter Speed
1/2000
Focal length
28mm
F-Stop
f/2.8
ISO
250
Camera
Z 6_2
Jury comment
The jury was moved by the photographer's continued commitment to reporting on the Myanmar civil war since the 2021 junta launched a military coup. The strong selection effectively captures the different elements of people's experiences within the People's Defence Force. The great lengths the photographer took to document and bring visibility to this ongoing conflict is a powerful testament to their dedication to the subject.