Overview of Myanmar

Profile

Myanmar boasts diverse topography from the Himalayan foothills in the north to the central dry plains and southern delta regions, characterized by pagodas and tropical greenery. Rich deposits of jade and rubies, along with natural gas fields, support the economy, while decades-long ethnic conflicts and military influence cast shadows on politics and society. Unique traditions such as the water festival Thingyan and barefoot temple worship remain deeply rooted.

Official name: Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Common name: Myanmar
Numeric code: 104
Alpha-3 code: MMR
Alpha-2 code: MM
Population: 54 million (2024 estimate) (2024)
Population density: approx. 82
Primary languages: Burmese
Major religions: Theravada Buddhism, Christianity, Islam
National anthem: Kaba Ma Kyei (Till the End of the World)
Calling code: +95
Internet TLD: .mm

History

Gained independence as the Union of Burma in 1948; experienced alternating military rule and democratic movements; currently under military regime following a 2021 coup.

Myanmar inherited the legacy of Buddhist kingdoms including Pagan, became British Burma in the 19th century, and gained independence in 1948. Following General Ne Win's 1962 coup, the military held power for decades, witnessing the 1988 democratic uprising, nominal civilian transfer in 2011, historic elections in 2015, only to see the military seize control again in February 2021. Ethnic self-determination demands and central government conflicts continue, sustaining one of the world's longest-running civil wars.

Geography & climate

Northern Himalayan foothills, central arid Irrawaddy basin, western Arakan Mountains, eastern Shan Plateau, and southern delta and long coastline.

Predominantly tropical monsoon climate with some subtropical highland climate in the plateau regions

Area: Asia / 676578 km²
Capital: Naypyidaw
Largest city: Yangon
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Inle Lake, Indawgyi Lake
Bordering countries: India, Bangladesh, China, Laos, Thailand

Natural resources

Natural gas, Crude oil, Jade, Ruby, Sapphire, Teak, Copper, Tin, Tungsten, Gold, Limestone, Marble, Nickel, Rare earths, Hydroelectric energy

Politics

Government: Presidential republic under military regime (state of emergency since 2021)

Economy

Currency: Myanmar Kyat (MMK)

GDP (nominal): 6.52E10 US dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 2.67E11 US dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Burmese

Time zone: Myanmar Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Bamar, Shan, Karen, Kachin, Chin, Mon, Rakhine, Kayah, Rohingya, Wa

Life expectancy

67.1

Literacy rate

76

National sports

Chinlone, Football, Lethwei, Weightlifting, Bodybuilding