She was referring to the absolute control that military rulers have over life in Burma. The military has governed the country since 1962, despite losing badly in democratic elections in 1990 to the main opposition party. A long-running civil war has taken a heavy toll on Burma. Nearly one million Burmese, largely ethnic minorities, have been displaced from their homes. Forced out of their communities, women must provide education for their children and often must raise their families alone.
Rape is a commonly-used tactic in the war.
In addition, extreme poverty and lack of education leads many women to flee to Thailand. They are promised employment or legal status, but find brothels awaiting them instead. The women fear arrest or deportation if they protest their circumstances. Despite these hurdles, women are actively engaged in the struggle for democracy in Burma. The women are calling for increased cooperation within ethnic groups as part of the long-term solution to Burma's problems.