Burmese Haze
Growing up in Burma, I was aware that the country was under a dictatorship. However, my understanding of Burma’s intricate political landscape was limited. Cyclone Nargis, Burma’s worst natural disaster in early May 2008, and the Saffron Revolution, various peaceful protests led by Buddhist monks, students, and political activists in 2007 remain vivid in my mind. I left Burma for the U.S. at the end of 2009, at a time when Burma was already undergoing the potential for political and economic transformations. Recently, I read Burmese Haze: US Policy and Myanmar’s Opening – and Closing by former intelligence analyst Erin Murphy, which triggered nostalgic recollections of my childhood and Burma.
Burmese Haze takes readers on an emotional journey to Burma (Myanmar) – a nation deeply entrenched in long-standing and intricate political turmoil. The book comprises seven chapters that elucidate how ethnic diversity in Burma drives politics, conflict, and identity. It sheds light on the challenges and offers insights into Washington’s handling of Burma’s complexities across the Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden Administrations. The book presents significant moments in diplomatic history, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s trip to the U.S., President Barack Obama’s historic visit to Burma, and then-Secretary of State Hilary Clinon’s trip.
Seamlessly blending personal and political insights, Burmese Haze draws on Murphy’s extensive knowledge and her personal journey navigating Burma. Murphy expresses that Burma is rich in every sense of the word: history, people, natural resources, and culture. But it is mired in poverty. As the title suggests, the book reflects on the cyclical nature of Burma’s history and its struggle toward democratic transition.
One might ponder if and why the world has forgotten about Burma. Murphy gives readers hope, underscoring the unwavering support of countries like the U.S. advocating for Burma’s potential to achieve democratic transitioning. Burmese Haze reminds readers of the arduous journey toward democracy and emphasizes the enduring nature of hope.
