Consequences of Myanmar Coup: Forced Migration and Transnational Repression

The Social Justice Program and the Myanmar Cultural Society at the University of Sydney are honoured to co-host a public panel discussion, "Consequences of the 2021 Myanmar Coup: Forced Migration and Transnational Repression," featuring Ko Ko Aung, Dr. Mubashar Hasan, and Dr. Susan Banki, and moderated by Rebecca Hill.

This panel discussion will explore how the 2021 Myanmar coup has not only led to widespread forced migration but also intensified transnational repression, with severe consequences for those both inside and outside the country. Thousands have sought safety as internally displaced persons (IDPs) or fled abroad through a range of avenues—whether as refugees, students, or economic migrants—while others have resorted to illegal border crossings. However, Myanmar's military regime continues to exert control beyond its borders through various forms of transnational repression. These include cancelling or refusing to renew passports, imposing illegitimate taxes on citizens abroad, and threatening the families of exiles with imprisonment, torture, or even death. The regime has also seized property and targeted dissidents abroad. The panelists will discuss these challenges, from family reunification and legal protections to international advocacy efforts, as well as the global response to the ongoing crisis, highlighting the intersection of legal frameworks, policy change, and humanitarian assistance in addressing both forced migration and transnational repression.

Panelists

Ko Ko Aung: 2024 NSW Humanitarian Award recipient, Immigration Lawyer specializing in Corporate Migration and Refugee Law. Ko Ko has been instrumental in providing legal support to refugees from Myanmar and Afghanistan, with a focus on family reunification and policy advocacy. 

Dr. Mubashar Hasan: Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Oslo University; Adjunct Research Fellow, Western Sydney University. Dr. Hasan is an award-winning researcher and human rights defender, specializing in the intersection of transnational repression and democratic resilience in South and Southeast Asia.

Dr. Susan Banki: Director, Social Justice Program, The University of Sydney. Dr. Banki’s work focuses on human rights violations, refugee protection, and transnationalism in the Asia-Pacific, with extensive fieldwork experience in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Cambodia.

Moderated by Rebecca Hill: Documentary Producer, currently pursuing a Master of Social Justice at the University of Sydney. Rebecca’s work spans critical social issues, including women’s equality and political turmoil, bringing diverse and impactful stories to a global audience.

This engaging discussion will provide attendees with in-depth perspectives from legal, academic, and advocacy experts who have dedicated their work to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and supporting displaced individuals in their search for safety and justice.