Social Media In Myanmar: Communication And Information Under Restrictions (2025)

Since the political events of early 2021, the digital landscape in Myanmar has been profoundly altered. Widespread internet shutdowns, blocks on popular social media platforms, increased surveillance, and a climate of fear have drastically impacted how people communicate and access information online. Yet, despite these significant restrictions, social media continues to play a complex and vital role in the daily lives of many in Myanmar. This article explores how residents navigate this challenging digital environment in 2025.

The Shifting Landscape: Blocks and Circumvention

Immediately following the military takeover, access to major social media platforms like Facebook (which was overwhelmingly dominant in Myanmar), Twitter, and Instagram was blocked by authorities seeking to control information flow. Mobile data shutdowns became frequent tactics. This forced users who wished to stay connected or access independent news to rely heavily on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). VPN usage surged, allowing users to bypass government blocks by routing their internet traffic through servers in other countries. However, using VPNs itself carries risks in Myanmar's current context, as authorities are aware of their use for accessing restricted content.

Dominant Platforms (Even When Restricted)

Even with official blocks in place, certain platforms remain central to online life, primarily accessed via VPN:

• Facebook: Despite being blocked, it remains a crucial source of information (both state-influenced and alternative news), a platform for community groups (though many have become cautious), and a way to connect with friends, family, and the diaspora. Its deep integration into Myanmar's digital life before 2021 makes it difficult to fully replace.

• TikTok: Its popularity, especially among younger users, continues, offering short-form video entertainment. It's also sometimes used subtly for sharing information or expressing coded dissent.

• Messaging Apps: Secure, encrypted messaging apps like Signal and WhatsApp saw increased adoption for private communication. More open platforms like Viber and Telegram are also used for group chats and information dissemination, though with varying degrees of perceived security.

Social Media as a Lifeline: Information and Community

In an environment where traditional media is heavily controlled or censored, social media often serves critical functions:

• Alternative News Sources: Platforms (accessed via VPN) become channels for sharing news reports from independent media outlets operating in exile, citizen journalists, and international sources, providing perspectives often absent in state media. However, this also makes them fertile ground for misinformation and disinformation campaigns.

• Community Building & Support: Groups and pages continue to facilitate social connection, mutual support networks, and coordination for community initiatives, albeit often more cautiously than before.

• Documenting Events: Users sometimes utilize social media to document events happening around them, although doing so carries significant personal risk.

Navigating Risks and Sharing Information

Using the internet and social media under Myanmar's current regime is fraught with danger. Users face risks of surveillance, arbitrary arrest, and harsh penalties for online activity deemed critical of the authorities or for accessing prohibited content. In this high-risk environment, users navigate a complex information landscape. Social networks remain crucial channels where people share news, personal updates, and links to various online resources, both mundane and sensitive. Discussions may sometimes touch upon international websites or services accessible from the region. For example, one might encounter online conversations or even lists describing Myanmar-friendly casino platforms.

Conclusion: Resilience in the Digital Sphere

The role of social media in Myanmar in 2025 is a testament to human resilience and the desire for connection and information, even in the face of severe restrictions. Platforms serve as vital lifelines but also exist within a climate of pervasive risk and government control. Users demonstrate remarkable adaptability in employing tools like VPNs and navigating blocked content, but the dangers associated with online expression and accessing certain types of information remain exceptionally high. The situation is fluid, and the future of internet freedom and social media use in the country remains uncertain.