Chapter 4.10 4 Security & Conflict 4.10 In this Chapter: A. Context • The race to roll out • Armed Conflict in Myanmar • Ongoing Conflicts • Post-Conflict Areas and the Peace Process • Intercommunal Violence • Other Security Issues B. Field Research Findings C. Recommendations for ICT Companies • Interactions with Myanmar Military • Security Risks • Engagement in Conflict Affected Areas • Land Considerations • Company Employed & Contracted Security Providers D. Relevant International Standards and Guidance on Security and Conflict A. Context The race to roll out Myanmar will probably have the fastest take-up of mobile communications in history. There is currently a race taking place to roll out the telecommunications network and secure customers among the Myanmar people, many of whom will be subscribing for the first time. Tower site hunters are continuing to actively search for sites, with an estimate of 250 towers being rolled out per month. Operators have improved coverage significantly in central and lower Myanmar, but are now beginning construction and roll out in areas such as Kachin State and Northern Shan State, with areas including Chin State and Rakhine State slated for rollout in late 2015. Operators are working to ensure that geographic targets set by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) are met, including providing voice services to 75% of the country and data services for 50% of the country in 60 months 636. This prompts companies to maximise population coverage within the confines of the geographic limits. Such dynamics may push companies to consider roll out to areas that still have active armed conflicts, as they will have dwindling options to choose ‘safe’ (i.e. non-conflict) areas. Other parts of the ICT value chain are increasingly operating in all parts of the country as well. The Myanmar Government, particularly the tatmadaw (army), is still viewed by many ethnic minority populations with deep suspicion as a violent and predatory force. Business, especially the extractives sector, have similarly been viewed as predatory, and 636 Myanmar Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), “End of the Expression of Interest stage regarding the tender for two Nationwide Telecommunications Licences in the Republic of the Union of Myanmar” (21 November 2013). CHAPTER 4.10: SECURITY & CONFLICT 255