ABOUT THE NETWORK

The Myanmar Freedom of Religion or Belief Network (Myanmar FoRB Network) was established shortly after the February 2021 military coup in Myanmar. It is a loose network of local and international CSOs, CBOs, INGOs, research groups, and individuals—including faith leaders, human rights defenders, activists, and researchers—working to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief (FoRB).

Amid a rapidly shrinking and fragile civic space, where civil society organisations face serious risks, the Network operates both inside Myanmar and in exile. It was formed out of urgent necessity to amplify hidden voices and bring attention to FoRB violations to the international community.

Since 2021, the Network has consistently monitored and shared updates on arrests and violence against faith leaders and religious minorities, raids and military occupation of religious sites, and the destruction of places of worship. Its work includes documentation of violations, awareness-raising trainings, media workshops, internal knowledge-sharing, and regional and international advocacy.

As of January 2026, the Myanmar FoRB Network comprises more than 30 members and continues to play a meaningful role in ensuring that FoRB violations in Myanmar are seen, acknowledged, and addressed despite ongoing political violence and security challenges.

Our Vision

A Myanmar where every person can freely practice, change, or express their religion or belief without fear, discrimination, or violence—within an inclusive, peaceful, and rights-respecting society.

Our Mission

To protect and promote freedom of religion or belief in Myanmar by documenting violations, amplifying affected voices, strengthening collaboration, and advocating for accountability at national and international levels.

OUR JOURNEY

THE FOUNDATION

Established shortly after the February military coup in Myanmar.
Formed as a loose network of FoRB-focused organisations and individuals inside Myanmar and in exile.
Began monitoring and documenting freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) violations.

THE COLLABORATION

Expanded collaboration among CSOs, CBOs, INGOs, faith leaders, and human rights defenders.
Conducted awareness-raising trainings and internal knowledge-sharing sessions.
Strengthened documentation of arrests, attacks on religious leaders, and destruction of religious

THE ACTIVITY

Organized media workshops and capacity-building initiatives on FoRB reporting.
Increased regional and international advocacy efforts.
Amplified voices of affected faith communities to global stakeholders.

THE STRENGTHENING

Enhanced systematic documentation and reporting mechanisms.
Deepened engagement with regional and international human rights platforms.
Strengthened coordination among members working in exile and inside Myanmar

THE CONTINUATION

Expanded network membership and partnerships.
Continued international advocacy highlighting FoRB violations.
Reinforced protection-focused collaboration amid ongoing civic space restrictions

THE GROWTH

- Grew to more than 30 members.
- Maintained consistent reporting, advocacy, and awareness-raising despite political and security challenges.