Legitimacy

• Myanmar is challenging the traditional diplomatic model where governments must make political concessions and end human rights abuses to end international isolation. • Historically, Western diplomacy utilized conditionality, applying economic restrictions and diplomatic pressure to force rehabilitation and political reform. • The current situation suggests a reversal of this sequence, where trade and economic engagement may now precede political legitimacy.

• Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of Myanmar's military-backed government, has arrived in Thailand for an official visit. • The visit follows Hlaing's swearing-in as president in April, after phased elections held in December and January. • The trip is seen as an attempt to gain political legitimacy and rehabilitation, despite critics dismissing the recent elections as a sham to maintain military control.

• Former junta chief and current Myanmar president, installed in April after disputed elections, is visiting Thailand for the first time as a civilian leader. • The visit occurs as fighting between the Myanmar military and rebel factions spills over the border, impacting Thailand, which hosts millions of refugees. • Thailand is currently leading efforts to normalize relations with Myanmar both bilaterally and through the 11-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).