What are the ULA’s ethnic policies towards non-Rakhine groups in Arakan?

FAQ about Arakan Affairs ၊ October 3, 2026

The United League of Arakan (ULA) has formally committed to a policy of harmony and equality for all ethnic groups residing in Arakan, establishing Ethnic Affairs Committees in each district specifically to handle non-Rakhine groups including Muslims, Hindus, Chin, and Mro communities, alongside a separate Muslim Affairs Committee for Muslim concerns. Beyond administrative inclusion, the ULA has granted a form of cultural autonomy for minority ethnic groups, actively supporting the holding of ethnic cultural festivals such as Eid gatherings, traditional music events, and community feasts attended by ULA officials as a demonstration of state-level recognition.

The organization has promoted social cohesion through traditional wrestling festivals, football matches, and music performances, with a Muslim community leader in Kyauktaw stating that “the essence of the football match held by the ULA is to achieve social cohesion and community reconciliation among the diverse groups.”

A ULA-led event condemning the 2017 military terror campaign against Muslims in northern Arakan (photo: @arakanprincessmedia)

In practical terms, the ULA has lifted travel restrictions on Muslim in central Rakhine State and Paletwa, allowing access to healthcare and inclusion in village administrative committees. In Anjanapura (Minbya) township alone, 200 Muslim community members have been included in ULA-established committees, and a local Muslim Council chairman reported that “when they make a decision, they first consult and negotiate with the village administrators, including us, and there is very little corruption.”

Female Muslim members of ULA performing community works in Buthidaung (photocrd)

The ULA has also included Muslim in various departments, including the military, police, administration, taxation, and judiciary, with a documented case showing a Muslim soldier serving in the Arakan Army questioning local Muslim about a criminal case in their own language. The ULA has also appointed a deputy township administrator from the Muslim community, which was not possible under the former central Myanmar administration.