Cardinal Bo’s New Year message: A vision of peace and reconciliation for Myanmar

Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar (CBCM), has called for an immediate end to violence in the nation, urging all parties to prioritize peace as Myanmar continues to grapple with the devastating impact of nearly four years of civil war.

In his New Year’s message, coinciding with the Church’s Jubilee of Hope, Bo expressed his heartfelt wish: “May 2025 be the year when peace blossoms in every heart and every corner of Myanmar.”

The archbishop of Yangon outlined a vision of reconciliation, justice, and dignity as essential steps toward healing the nation.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the February 1, 2021 coup, which ousted the elected civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

The ensuing violence has claimed over 6,000 civilian lives, displaced 3.3 million people, and pushed more than half the population below the poverty line.

Despite condemnation from the UN and international organizations, the military, backed by China and Russia, continues its crackdown on ethnic regions, including attacks on predominantly Christian areas.

Bo emphasized the role of youth as "architects of peace," advocating for education and opportunities to rebuild both individual lives and the nation’s soul.

He also highlighted reconciliation as a deliberate choice to "love beyond the pain" and build trust, compassion, and hope.

Diplomatic efforts, including those by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), have yet to yield progress, while skepticism surrounds the junta's promise of elections in 2025.

Meanwhile, the release of nearly 6,000 prisoners on January 4, marking Independence Day, excluded key political detainees, including Suu Kyi, who remains imprisoned on multiple charges.

As Myanmar faces increasing fragmentation and the risk of long-term division, Bo’s call for peace and justice stands as a beacon of hope for the embattled nation.