Additional preface from Chairman of the Wa National Organisation

This report provides an insight into the sufferings being faced by the peoples of Eastern Shan State: the Shan, Wa, Lahu, Akha, Palaung, Lisu and Kachin. The Burmese military regime has granted no freedom of the press, and no freedom of movement, so it is hard to know what is really happening in this area. Clearly, there can never be real peace while one ethnic group is oppressing another. Only if the real facts are exposed to the people of Burma and the rest of the world, will it be possible to find a cure to the suffering. I believe this report is an important first step in the search for a way to live together in peace.

Sao Maha Sang
Chairman,
Wa National Organisation (based on the Thai-Burma border)