Khin Ohmar is one of Myanmar’s most prominent democracy activists, widely known for her unwavering commitment to human rights, ethnic equality, and women’s empowerment over more than three decades. She first gained national and international attention as a leader of the 1988 pro-democracy student uprising, known as the “8888 Uprising”, when she was a university student in Yangon.
Following the violent military crackdown on peaceful protestors, Khin Ohmar fled Myanmar and continued her activism in exile, becoming a key figure in the global movement for democracy in Myanmar.
🔹 Key Roles & Contributions
1988 Student Uprising:
One of the leading organizers during the 8888 movement. After the coup, she fled to the Thai-Myanmar border and later joined the armed wing of the All Burma Students’ Democratic Front (ABSDF).
Civil Society Builder:
Co-founder of multiple influential civil society and women’s rights organizations:
Women’s League of Burma (WLB) – a coalition of women’s groups advocating for gender justice.
Burma Partnership – a regional network supporting civil society and democratic movements in Myanmar and Southeast Asia.
Progressive Voice – a research and advocacy organization amplifying grassroots voices from within Myanmar.
International Advocacy:
Khin Ohmar has represented Myanmar civil society in numerous global forums. In 2020, she addressed the UN Security Council as a civil society briefer, raising the issue of gender-based violence and war crimes committed by the Myanmar military.
🔹 Awards & Recognition
🏆 Anna Lindh Prize (2008) – awarded for outstanding courage and commitment to peace and democracy.
🏆 Vital Voices Global Leadership Award (2008) – presented by former U.S. First Lady Laura Bush, who called her “one of the strongest voices against Burma’s violent regime.”
🔹 Recent Work
Even after the 2021 military coup, Khin Ohmar continues to play a leading role in
Coordinating international advocacy to hold the Myanmar military accountable.
Supporting the efforts of Myanmar’s civil resistance and ethnic groups.
Promoting inclusive federal democracy and transitional justice.
She is a powerful voice pushing for international sanctions, justice mechanisms (including the ICC and ICJ), and meaningful solidarity with Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement.
🔹 Legacy
Khin Ohmar’s work bridges generations of activists — from 1988 student revolutionaries to Gen Z protesters of the 2021 Spring Revolution. She remains a tireless advocate for a democratic, just, and inclusive Myanmar, and is deeply respected across civil society both inside and outside the country.