CONFIDENTIAL
BURMA
Report by HM Embassy Rangoon
General Observations
The Burmese Government claims to pursue a policy of in- dependent socialism and the Burmese Consitution states that
'every citizen shall have freedom of speech, freedom of writing and freedom of publication' and 'the right to free- dom of thought and freedom of conscience'. In practice the Burmese people are forced to lead a very restricted, insular life in constant fear of the Army and, more recently, of the Police. The police intelligence service has been visibly reinforced during the past six months, and its tentacles now extend deep into every walk of public and private life. Burma is heading towards becoming a Police State on the model of the East European Socialist States.
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Detention, on suspicion, for an unspecified period was legalised in 1947. Since Ne Win assumed power in 1962 the number of de- tainees has increased enormously and is estimated at more than 40,000 or about 0.13% of total population.
Torture is illegal, but covertly inflicted. Recently this prac-
tice has become notoriously associated with the Military
Intelligence Service which also deals with civilian criminal offences.
Slavery has been unknown for many years.
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All newspapers and radio are owned and tightly controlled by the State. All local and imported publications are censored. All mass media are required to follow officially- promulgated socialist guidelines on information, literature and fine and performing arts. Burma is a one-party State and any speech or demonstration against the Government is banned. All outward telegrams from local correspondents to foreign news agencies are censored.
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CONFIDENTIAL
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