A prominent Burmese journalist and politician who co-founded the National League for Democracy, fighting for democracy and human rights in Myanmar, and spending 19 years in prison for his activism.
Win Tin, a renowned Burmese journalist, politician, and political prisoner, is celebrated for his unwavering dedication to freedom of expression and his pivotal role in shaping Burma's democratic landscape. As a co-founder of the National League for Democracy (NLD), he bravely confronted the military government, spending 19 long years behind bars for his writings and leadership.
Born on March 12, 1929, Win Tin attended Myoma High School in Yangon and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature, modern history, and political science from Rangoon University in 1953. His educational background and early life experiences laid the foundation for his future endeavors as a journalist and champion of democracy.
Win Tin's journalistic career took off when he became the editor-in-chief of Kyemon, one of Burma's most popular newspapers, after its nationalization in 1964. He later headed the state-owned daily newspaper Hanthawaddy Daily in Mandalay, which flourished under his leadership. However, his refusal to compromise editorial independence and his proclivity to publish critiques of the regime led to the paper's closure and his dismissal in 1978.
Under the pen name Paw Thit, Win Tin wrote celebrated works like Search for Beauty, Northern Light, and Queed, as well as books chronicling his tours in communist countries. His autobiography, What is the Human Hell, published in 2010, offered a harrowing account of the inhuman torture and interrogation practices he endured in prison.
In 1989, Win Tin was arrested and sentenced to 20 years in prison on charges of anti-government propaganda. During his imprisonment, he continued to advocate for democracy and human rights, even attempting to inform the United Nations of the ongoing human rights violations in Burmese prisons.
In 2001, Win Tin was awarded the prestigious UNESCO-Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize for his unwavering efforts to defend and promote freedom of expression. That same year, he received the World Association of Newspapers' Golden Pen Award, solidifying his position as a beacon of hope for democracy and press freedom.
Win Tin's courageous struggle and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on Burma's democratic landscape. His unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and democracy inspired generations of journalists, politicians, and activists. Through his writings and leadership, he fearlessly challenged the military government, paving the way for a more democratic and inclusive Burma.
As a testament to his enduring legacy, Win Tin's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of press freedom, democracy, and human rights. His remarkable life and achievements continue to inspire and motivate individuals around the world to stand up against oppression and fight for a more just and equitable society.
81 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.
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.
Born in 1910
A Burmese army general and politician who ruled the country with an iron fist, implementing isolationist and nationalist policies that led to economic stagnation and human rights abuses.
Born in 1907
First Prime Minister of Burma, leading the country to independence from British colonial rule and establishing a democratic government. He's also known for his efforts to promote Buddhism and national unity.
Born in 1915
Led the fight for Burmese independence from British colonial rule and is considered the founder of modern Burma. He was assassinated before independence was achieved, but his daughter Aung San Suu Kyi continued his legacy.
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.
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.
