# Myanmar

> country in Southeast Asia

**Wikidata**: [Q836](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q836)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myanmar)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/myanmar

## Summary

Myanmar is a sovereign state and country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Bangladesh, India, China, Laos, and Thailand. It achieved independence from British rule on January 4, 1948, and officially adopted the name "Myanmar" on June 18, 1989, replacing the name "Burma." The capital city moved from Yangon to Naypyidaw on November 6, 2005, and the country is a member of the United Nations, ASEAN, and numerous other international organizations.

## Key Facts

- **Official Name:** Republic of the Union of Myanmar (since October 21, 2010)
- **Former Names:** Union of Burma (1948–1974), Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma (1974–1989), Union of Myanmar (1989–2010)
- **Independence:** January 4, 1948 (from British rule)
- **Capital:** Naypyidaw (since November 6, 2005); previously Yangon (1948–2005)
- **Area:** 676,577.2 square kilometres
- **Population:** 53,370,609 (2017 census); 26,150,000 male and 28,430,000 female (2020 estimate)
- **Official Language:** Burmese
- **Currency:** Kyat (since July 1, 1952)
- **Driving Side:** Right-hand traffic (since 1970)
- **Railway Traffic Side:** Left-hand
- **Electricity:** 230V, 50Hz
- **Time Zone:** UTC+06:30
- **Telephone Country Code:** +95
- **Internet TLD:** .mm
- **ISO Codes:** MM (alpha-2), MMR (alpha-3), 104 (numeric)
- **Highest Point:** Hkakabo Razi (5,881 metres)
- **Lowest Point:** Indian Ocean (sea level)
- **Coordinates:** Latitude 22°, Longitude 96°
- **Continent:** Asia
- **Form of Government:** Republic
- **Legislative Body:** Assembly of the Union
- **Marriageable Age:** 20 years (all genders)
- **Literacy Rate:** 89.1% (2019)
- **Life Expectancy:** 67 years (2022)
- **Birth Rate:** 16.833 (2022)
- **Death Rate:** 8.749 (2022)
- **Human Development Index:** 0.585 (2021)
- **Inequality-Adjusted HDI:** 0.467 (2015)
- **Gini Coefficient:** 30.7 (2017)
- **Democracy Index:** 1.02 (2021)
- **BTI Governance Index:** 3.53 (2022)
- **Unemployment Rate:** 3% (2014)
- **Nominal GDP:** $59.36 billion (2022)
- **Median Income:** 2,037,600 kyat (November 2022)
- **Total Fertility Rate:** 2.05 (2021)

## FAQs

**What are Myanmar's neighboring countries?**

Myanmar shares borders with Bangladesh to the west, India to the northwest, China to the northeast, Laos to the east, and Thailand to the southeast.

**What international organizations is Myanmar a member of?**

Myanmar is a member of the United Nations (since April 19, 1948), ASEAN (since July 23, 1997), World Trade Organization, International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (since January 3, 1952), International Development Association (since November 5, 1962), International Finance Corporation (since December 3, 1956), Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (since December 16, 2013), Interpol (founder member since 1954), Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (since August 7, 2015), UNESCO (since June 27, 1949), Universal Postal Union (since October 4, 1949), International Telecommunication Union (since September 15, 1937), World Meteorological Organization (since August 19, 1949), World Health Organization, World Customs Organization (since March 25, 1991), Asian Development Bank (since 1973), and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.

**What are the administrative divisions of Myanmar?**

Myanmar contains the following states and regions: Arakan, Chin State, Kachin State, Shan State, Kayah State, Kayin State, Mon State, Sagaing Region, Tanintharyi Region, Ayeyarwady Region, Yangon Region, Bago Region, Magway Region, Mandalay Region, and Naypyidaw Union Territory. It also includes self-administered zones: Danu, Kokang, Naga, Pa-O, and Pa Laung, plus the Wa Self-Administered Division.

**What is the ethnic composition of Myanmar?**

The ethnic groups include Bamar (68%), Shan (9%), Karen (7%), Rakhine (4%), Chinese (3%), Indians (2%), and Mon (2%).

**What is Myanmar's national anthem and flag?**

The national anthem is "Kaba Ma Kyei." The country flag is the Flag of Myanmar, featuring a white star surrounded by 14 stars on a red field with blue corners.

**What are the emergency contact numbers in Myanmar?**

Police: 199; Fire department: 191; Emergency medical services: 192.

**What is the historical context of Myanmar's name change?**

The country was known as Burma from independence in 1948 until June 17, 1989. On June 18, 1989, the military government officially changed the English name to Myanmar, and the Burmese name from "Bama" to "Myanmar." This change was adopted by the United Nations in 1989 and by most countries thereafter.

**What is the significance of Naypyidaw as the capital?**

Naypyidaw became the capital on November 6, 2005, when the military government moved the seat of power from Yangon. The name means "Abode of Kings" in Burmese. This relocation was announced publicly in 2006.

**What is the political structure of Myanmar?**

Myanmar is a republic. The head of state as of 2021 is Myint Swe (acting president), who took office following the military coup on February 1, 2021. The head of government is Min Aung Hlaing, who leads the State Administration Council. Prior to the coup, Aung San Suu Kyi served as State Counsellor (2016–2021) and Thein Sein was president (2011–2016).

## Why It Matters

Myanmar holds significant geopolitical importance due to its strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Asia. The country serves as a vital corridor for regional trade and connectivity, sharing borders with five nations and possessing coastline along the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. Its rich natural resources, including forests, minerals, and hydroelectric potential, make it significant for regional energy and economic development.

The nation's historical significance is profound, having been a major Buddhist kingdom throughout Southeast Asian history, home to ancient civilizations that built iconic structures such as the temples of Bagan. The country has experienced significant modern history, from British colonial rule through independence, periods of military rule, and recent democratic transitions and setbacks.

Myanmar's cultural diversity is remarkable, with over 100 ethnic groups contributing to a rich tapestry of languages, traditions, and customs. This diversity presents both opportunities for cultural exchange and challenges in national unity and governance. The country's position in ASEAN as the largest nation by area (excluding sea territory) gives it considerable influence in regional affairs.

The nation matters economically due to its young population, strategic ports, and potential for natural resource development. Its agricultural sector, producing rice, beans, and pulses, plays a crucial role in regional food security. Additionally, Myanmar's location provides potential for regional infrastructure connectivity projects linking China, India, and Southeast Asia.

## Notable For

- **Temples of Bagan:** Home to one of the world's largest and most significant archaeological sites, with thousands of Buddhist monuments dating from the 11th–13th centuries
- **Hkakabo Razi:** The highest peak in Southeast Asia at 5,881 metres
- **Independence Date:** January 4, 1948, marking liberation from British colonial rule after more than 100 years of colonization
- **Name Transition:** One of the few modern nations to undergo official English name change from Burma to Myanmar in 1989
- **Capital Relocation:** One of the few countries in recent history to relocate its capital city, moving from Yangon to Naypyidaw in 2005
- **ASEAN Membership:** Joined ASEAN on July 23, 1997, becoming one of the organization's founding members
- **UNESCO Membership:** Since June 27, 1949, making it one of the earliest members of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
- **Time Zone Uniqueness:** UTC+06:30 is one of the most unusual time zone offsets globally
- **Diverse Ethnic Composition:** Over 100 distinct ethnic groups within its borders
- **Literacy Achievement:** 89.1% literacy rate despite developmental challenges
- **Marriageable Age:** Unified marriage age of 20 years for all genders since independence

## Body

### History and Political Development

Myanmar achieved independence from British rule on January 4, 1948, following more than a century of colonial administration. The country was originally known as Burma, a name derived from the Burmese word "Bama." The early post-independence period saw democratic governance, though this was interrupted by military coups in 1962 and 1988.

The Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma existed from January 4, 1974, until June 17, 1989. On June 18, 1989, the military government officially changed the country's name to Myanmar and the demonym from "Burmese" to "Myanmar" in formal contexts. This change was subsequently recognized by the United Nations and most member states.

The Union of Myanmar existed from June 18, 1989, until October 20, 2010. On October 21, 2010, the country adopted its current official name, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, following a constitutional referendum in 2008 and general elections in 2010.

The political landscape has undergone significant transitions. Thein Sein served as president from March 2011 to March 2016, leading a quasi-civilian government that implemented reforms. Aung San Suu Kyi became State Counsettlor in April 2016, serving as de facto head of government despite constitutional provisions preventing her from holding the presidency due to her foreign family ties. This arrangement ended following the military coup on February 1, 2021, when Min Aung Hlaing assumed power as head of the State Administration Council, with Myint Swe serving as acting president.

### Geography and Natural Features

Myanmar covers an area of 676,577.2 square kilometres, making it the largest country in mainland Southeast Asia. The country occupies a strategic position in Southeast Asia, bordered by Bangladesh and India to the northwest, China to the northeast, Laos to the east, and Thailand to the southeast. It also has coastline along the Andaman Sea to the southwest and the Bay of Bengal to the west.

The country's geography is diverse, ranging from coastal plains and river deltas to mountainous regions and central basins. The highest point is Hkakabo Razi at 5,881 metres above sea level, located in the northern mountains near the border with China. This peak is the highest in Southeast Asia. The lowest point is the Indian Ocean at sea level.

The capital city Naypyidaw, established in 2005, is located in the central region of the country. The former capital Yangon remains the largest city and commercial center. The country's coordinates are latitude 22° north and longitude 96° east.

### Demographics and Population

Myanmar had a population of 53,370,609 according to the 2017 census. The 2020 estimates show approximately 26,150,000 males and 28,430,000 females. The population is predominantly rural, with approximately 36.9 million people in rural areas and 17.2 million in urban areas as of 2022.

The country is ethnically diverse, with the Bamar ethnic group comprising approximately 68% of the population. Other significant ethnic groups include the Shan (9%), Karen (7%), Rakhine (4%), Chinese (3%), Indians (2%), and Mon (2%).

The median age is relatively young, reflecting a population structure typical of developing nations. The country has experienced significant internal migration, particularly from rural areas to urban centers like Yangon and Mandalay.

### Economy and Development

Myanmar's nominal GDP was approximately $59.36 billion in 2022, with a GDP per capita that has been gradually increasing despite political instability. The economy is primarily agricultural, with rice, beans, and pulses being major crops. The country also possesses significant natural resources, including timber, minerals, and natural gas.

The national currency is the kyat, which has been in use since July 1, 1952, replacing the Burmese rupee. Prior to that, the Burmese rupee was used from 1945 to 1952 and from 1852 to 1942.

The Human Development Index (HDI) for Myanmar was 0.585 in 2021, classifying the country in the medium human development category. The Inequality-Adjusted HDI was 0.467 in 2015, indicating significant losses due to inequality. The Gini coefficient was 30.7 in 2017, suggesting moderate income inequality.

The literacy rate stands at 89.1% as of 2019, a significant achievement considering the challenges faced by the education system. The median income was approximately 2,037,600 kyat as of November 2022.

### International Membership and Relations

Myanmar maintains diplomatic relations with numerous countries, including Australia, the Holy See, Israel, Serbia, Indonesia, Denmark, France, India, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan, the Philippines, United States, Russia, China, Bangladesh, Germany, and North Korea (since 1975).

The country is a member of major international organizations. It joined the United Nations on April 19, 1948, and became a member of ASEAN on July 23, 1997. It is also a member of the World Trade Organization, various UN specialized agencies, and regional development banks.

Myanmar participates in the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (since 1952), International Development Association (since 1962), International Finance Corporation (since 1956), and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (since 2013). It is also a member of Interpol (founder member since 1954), the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (since 2015), UNESCO (since 1949), Universal Postal Union (since 1949), International Telecommunication Union (since 1937), World Meteorological Organization (since 1949), World Health Organization, and World Customs Organization (since 1991).

### Infrastructure and Standards

Myanmar drives on the right side of the road, a policy that was standardized in 1970 (previously left-hand driving). The railway system operates on the left side, consistent with many former British colonies.

The standard mains voltage is 230 volts at 50 hertz. Electrical plugs follow multiple standards, including Europlug, British-type sockets, and BS 1363 specifications.

The country uses the telephone country code +95 and the internet top-level domain .mm. The mobile country code is 414. The country follows UTC+06:30 for time, one of the few half-hour offset time zones in the world.

Emergency services can be reached at 199 (police), 191 (fire department), and 192 (emergency medical services). The country uses the ISO 3166 codes MM (alpha-2) and MMR (alpha-3), with the numeric code 104. The WIPO ST.3 code is MM, and the ITU letter code is BRM.

### Cultural and Social Indicators

The official language is Burmese, though numerous ethnic languages are spoken throughout the country, including Shan, Karen, Rakhine, Mon, and many others. The national anthem is "Kaba Ma Kyei" (Mother Land).

The literacy rate of 89.1% (2019) reflects significant progress in education. The marriageable age is 20 years for all genders. Life expectancy at birth was approximately 67 years in 2022, with a birth rate of 16.833 per 1,000 population and a death rate of 8.749 per 1,000 population in the same year.

The total fertility rate was 2.05 in 2021, indicating fertility rates approaching replacement level. The unemployment rate was 3% in 2014, though this figure may have changed significantly due to subsequent political events.

### Administrative Structure

Myanmar comprises 14 states and regions: Arakan, Chin State, Kachin State, Shan State, Kayah State, Kayin State, Mon State, Sagaing Region, Tanintharyi Region, Ayeyarwady Region, Yangon Region, Bago Region, Magway Region, and Mandalay Region. Additionally, there is the Naypyidaw Union Territory.

The country also includes several self-administered zones and divisions: Danu Self-Administered Zone, Kokang Self-Administered Zone, Naga Self-Administered Zone, Pa-O Self-Administered Zone, Pa Laung Self-Administered Zone, and Wa Self-Administered Division.

### International Rankings and Indices

Myanmar's democracy index was 1.02 in 2021, placing it among the lowest-scoring countries in the Economist Intelligence Unit's democracy index. The BTI Governance Index was 3.53 in 2022, reflecting governance challenges.

The Happy Planet Index score was 40 in 2019. Myanmar has been classified as a "partly free country" in Freedom House reports, though this classification has changed over time.

### Historical Leadership

The presidency has changed hands several times since independence. Htin Kyaw served as president from March 2016 to March 2018. Thein Sein was president from March 2011 to March 2016. Win Myint served from March 2018 to February 2021. Myint Swe has served as acting president since February 2021.

The head of government has also seen multiple transitions. Aung San Suu Kyi served as State Counsellor from April 2016 until the 2021 coup. Thein Sein served as Prime Minister from 2007 to 2011. Min Aung Hlaing has led the military government since February 2021.

### Natural and Cultural Heritage

Myanmar is home to significant cultural heritage sites, most notably the ancient city of Bagan, which contains thousands of Buddhist temples, pagodas, and monuments dating from the 11th to 13th centuries. This archaeological site is one of the most significant in Southeast Asia and represents the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Burmese people.

The country has a rich tradition of Buddhist practice, with temples and monasteries throughout the nation. The national flag features a white star surrounded by 14 smaller stars on a red field, symbolizing unity and the country's ethnic groups.

### Regional Context

Myanmar is located in Southeast Asia, specifically in the mainland region known as Indochina. The country shares its borders with five nations: Bangladesh (west), India (northwest), China (northeast), Laos (east), and Thailand (southeast). This strategic position has made Myanmar important for regional trade routes and geopolitical considerations.

The country participates in the ASEAN Regional Forum and various subregional cooperation frameworks, including the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which includes Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Nepal alongside Myanmar.

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