The ‘normalization’ of the junta’s rule In Myanmar?

The recent visit by Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Sen to Myanmar has attracted much criticism from both within Myanmar and from other members of ASEAN. Contrary to the self-proclaimed "success" by both Hun Sen and the junta leader Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the visit has not changed the harsh reality on the ground.

In fact, while Hun Sen was in Myanmar, violence perpetrated by the Myanmar military continued and led to civilian casualties. After Hun Sen returned to Cambodia, the junta even sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to another four years of imprisonment.

Indeed, there has been no indication whatsoever that the junta will take serious steps to implement ASEAN's five-point consensus (FPC). In fact, the visit was used by the military junta to create an impression of legitimacy and acceptance conferred by the ASEAN chair.