The Power of the Student Movement in Burma in 1974

Abstract

This research article aimed to study and analyze the influence of the formation of the student movement in Burma in 1974. There was conducted as historical research through the study of primary and secondary documents, as well as in-depth interview with former students who were involved in the student movement in Myanmar from 1962 to 1990.

The study found that in 1974, the Burmese student movement was influenced: (1) political factors: the military government of Burma continued to rule the country according to the socialist policies of General Ne Win's regime. Additionally, the 1974 Constitution was enacted which maintained the same socialist governance model as before; (2) economic factors: General Ne Win's government implemented a four-year economic plan. However, this plan still adhered to socialist principles where the military government controlled the entire economy. This situation led to protests by labor groups who joined the student movement in their demonstrations; (3) social factors: Burmese students were influenced by democratic ideas from Western radio stations, news agencies, intellectuals, as well as books and short stories. These sources introduced principles and ideas of democracy to the students. The study uses the framework of social movement theory to explain the student movement. The resource mobilization theory was applied under the context of social movement organizations, and political process theory was used to analyze the movement. Additionally, the study utilized the framework of student movements in the Asian region to understand the influence on the formation of the Burmese student movement.