Spy Versus Spy: Myanmar’s Multiple Counterintelligence Challenges

2025/04/25 by Andrew Selth · 1 voice
Economics, Econometrics and Finance · Social Sciences · #Economic Sanctions and International Relations #Global Peace and Security Dynamics #Politics and Conflicts in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Middle East

paper · pdf · doi:10.1080/08850607.2025.2453723

openalex publication_date 2025/04/25 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/14

Abstract

Myanmar’s critical geostrategic position, vast economic potential and seemingly endless internal instability has meant that it has long been a target for foreign intelligence services. Most have been interested mainly in collecting data to inform policymaking, but some have engaged in clandestine operations designed to influence events or shape the strategic environment. This has posed a constant challenge to Myanmar’s counterintelligence authorities. For decades, various military intelligence organizations and the police force’s Special Branch have struggled to detect and guard against the intelligence activities of both Myanmar’s regional neighbors and larger powers further afield. This effort has doubtless been maintained by the junta that seized power in 2021.

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