A Burmese democracy activist who has been vocal about human rights and political reform in Myanmar, particularly in regards to the Rohingya crisis.
Thinzar Shunlei Yi, a Burmese prodemocracy activist and television host, is known for her unwavering courage in the face of adversity, fighting against the military regime in Myanmar. Her tireless efforts to organize mass protests and advocate for human rights have made her a beacon of hope for the people of Myanmar.
Born on November 14, 1991, in Sagaing, Myanmar, Thinzar Shunlei Yi grew up in a military family. Her father, an army captain, and her mother, a Kachin Christian, instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and respect for authority. She spent her early years in military compounds, where she received her education from military high schools and Bamar Buddhist institutes.
Thinzar Shunlei Yi's journey as an activist began in 2012 when she held executive positions in several youth organizations. Her charismatic leadership and passion for democracy soon made her a prominent figure in Myanmar's youth movement. In 2016, she became a television host on "Under 30 Dialogue," a youth-oriented program that addressed social and political issues.
In 2018, Thinzar Shunlei Yi was charged with unlawful protest for advocating against the Rohingya genocide. Despite the risks, she continued to speak out against the military regime, organizing protests and rallies to demand democracy and human rights. Her bravery earned her a conviction in 2020, but she refused to be silenced.
Following the 2021 Burmese coup d'état, Thinzar Shunlei Yi helped organize mass protests against the Tatmadaw, Myanmar's military. Her defiance led to her flee to the jungle, where she briefly joined an armed rebel group. Today, she lives in exile in Thailand, where she continues to advocate for democracy and human rights.
Thinzar Shunlei Yi's unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights has earned her numerous awards and honors, including the Magnitsky Human Rights Award, the Women of the Future Award, the Obama Foundation Scholarship, and recognition from the US Department of State.
In exile, Thinzar Shunlei Yi launched the Sisters2Sisters campaign, a initiative aimed at combating wartime sexual violence. Through her campaign, she provides support and resources to survivors of sexual violence and advocates for accountability and justice.
Thinzar Shunlei Yi's courage and determination have inspired a generation of Myanmar's youth to demand democracy and human rights. Her unwavering commitment to her people has made her a symbol of resistance against the military regime. Despite the risks, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of justice and equality, inspiring countless others to join the fight.
80 Years Old
A democracy icon and human rights activist, she led the fight against Myanmar's military rule and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991.
63 Years Old
A prominent Burmese democracy activist and leader of the 88 Generation Students Group, known for his non-violent resistance and advocacy for human rights and democracy in Myanmar.
81 Years Old
A former general who led Myanmar's transition from military rule to democracy, known for his reforms and release of political prisoners.
93 Years Old
A Burmese general and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Burma from 1992 to 2011, known for his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses.
