Skip to main content
 
Support our workStand with every
community in Burma
Donate →

February 2026 - Digital Hate Monthly Report

Report on Hate Speech and Misinformation Found in Myanmar in February

439 views
Share FacebookXWhatsApp
Cover: February 2026 - Digital Hate Monthly Report
In this report
  1. Introduction
  2. Research Methodology
  3. Monitoring Activities
  4. Findings
  5. The figure illustrating types of hate speech
  6. The figure illustrating the number of hate speech targets
  7. Keywords used by hate speech writers
  8. Distribution by Platform
  9. Conclusion

1Introduction

The spread of hate speech and misinformation across social media and other communication channels in Myanmar has the potential to intensify ethnic, religious, and political tensions and to increase conflicts within communities.

This report systematically monitors and analyzes hate speech incidents that occurred in Myanmar during February 2026, examining their primary sources, patterns of dissemination, vulnerable social groups affected, and potential impacts.

The study focuses primarily on violent or inciting content, ethnic and religious insults, and strongly polarized political rhetoric appearing on widely used social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, and Telegram. In addition, it proposes legal, technological, and community-based measures necessary to prevent and counter hate speech.

The report also documents how hate speech trends evolved during February in relation to Myanmar’s current political, economic, and social conditions. These findings are intended to serve as a useful reference for peacebuilders, media practitioners, policymakers, and civil society organizations.

2Research Methodology

Hate speech is inherently rooted in emotional expression and subjective sentiment, it does not have a universally accepted definition. For this report, the Burma Human Rights Network (BHRN) defines hate speech as follows:

"Hate speech refers to any form of expression, verbal, written, behavioral, or artistic, that targets an individual or group to express severe criticism, condemnation, or to incite hostility and hatred toward characteristics that should be protected. This includes attacks on fundamental rights and identity, such as religion, language, gender, sexual orientation, citizenship, ethnicity, skin color, beliefs, or physical appearance."

Based on the findings of this study, hate speech is further categorized into the following types:

  • Criminalisation: Portraying specific groups as inherent criminals or "sinners."
  • Dehumanisation: Stripping individuals of their human qualities or dignity.
  • Oppressive Speech: Language used to exert dominance over or bully marginalized groups.
  • Incitement: Direct calls for violence, riots, or civil unrest.
  • Existential Threat: Characterising specific groups as a fundamental threat to the existence of others.
  • Glorification: The celebration or promotion of acts of violence and hatred.

In the context of Myanmar’s ongoing political and military tensions, BHRN continuously monitors and documents hate speech terminology disseminated by the military and its associated propaganda channels.

1Data Collection

Monitored Platforms: Data is gathered from Facebook, TikTok, and Telegram channels.

Content Categories:

  • Hate speech related to ethnicity, religion, politics, and gender.
  • Content inciting violence and discrimination.
  • Harmful misinformation and inciting posts

2Data Approach

  • Manual Monitoring: Members of the Hate Speech Monitoring Team systematically review and verify specific keywords, phrases, images, and videos to ensure a high level of accuracy in documentation.

3Data Analysis

  • Thematic Classification: Content is grouped into specific themes—such as ethnicity, religion, and politics to identify recurring patterns of targeting.
  • Spread Measurement: Engagement (likes, shares, comments) and reach on social media platforms are measured.
  • Identification of Key Perpetrators: The study identifies specific groups and individuals responsible for disseminating hate speech, while assessing their level of influence and broader social impact.

4Ethical Considerations

  • Data Confidentiality: All monitored and documented information is stored securely. BHRN adheres to a strict policy that prohibits the disclosure of data to the public or unauthorised individuals.

5Limitations

  • Platform Coverage: It is not possible to comprehensively monitor all social media platforms
  • Encryption Challenges: Some online activities occur on encrypted communication platforms, which pose significant challenges for effective tracking and monitoring.
  • Authenticity and Impact: The prevalence of fake accounts and bots complicates assessing the genuine social impact accurately

3Monitoring Activities

This report was compiled through monitoring online and print media used by the military regime and its supporters to disseminate hate speech. In particular, during February 2026, BHRN monitored 3 Facebook groups, 1 page, and 13 Facebook accounts, identifying 34 instances of hate speech. Monitoring of 24 Telegram channels revealed 48 instances, while observation of 24 TikTok accounts identified 24 instances.

For print media monitoring, two newspapers and one journal were reviewed. In total, 106 cases of hate speech and misinformation were documented during February.

The findings will be presented using tables, graphs, and explanatory text. The report will also outline the main causes and impacts of hate speech, along with recommendations for prevention and mitigation. Due to significant limitations in conducting monitoring that fully covers all social media platforms, there may be additional hate speech incidents that were not recorded.

Key Findings

1Targeted Groups

  • Rohingya people are repeatedly targeted through coordinated attacks that portray them as criminals, labeling them as “illegal Bengalis” who allegedly entered from Bangladesh.
  • Muslims are subjected to discriminatory and religiously offensive content, including hate speech that labels them as Islamic extremists and uses derogatory slurs and demeaning stereotypes.
  • Women are targeted with gender-based hate speech that includes dehumanizing language, sexual harassment, the disclosure of personal information (doxxing), and defamatory allegations intended to damage their dignity and safety.
  • Armed organizations and resistance groups, including the Arakan Army (AA), the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and the People’s Defence Force (PDF) units, are portrayed as criminals through accusations of drug trafficking, theft, terrorism, murder, robbery, and rape, with the intent of inciting hatred within society.
  • Content that promotes hatred by accusing persons with disabilities that their physical impairments or mental conditions are the result of past karma or moral wrongdoing.

2Methods of Disseminating Hate Speech and Disinformation

  • Hate speech targeting Muslims and Rohingya people is disseminated across social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Telegram in various formats, including posts, videos, and cartoons, promoting ethnic, religious, and political hatred.
  • The Arakan Army, Kachin Independence Army, and People’s Defence Force are depicted as criminal gangs, terrorists, thieves, and rapists to spread hate and delegitimize their activities.
  • The circulation of false news and misinformation is used to deliberately foster suspicion and distrust among the general public.

3Impacts

  • Increased public hostility toward members of the Arakan Army (AA), Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and People’s Defence Force (PDF), as well as the potential escalation of ethnic tensions between Chin and Bamar communities.
  • Negative impacts on women’s safety and dignity, along with threats and harassment targeting activists both online and offline.
  • The growth of ethnic and religious hatred, which undermines peacebuilding efforts and creates obstacles to democratic transition.
  • Increased mockery and discrimination against persons with disabilities create further barriers to the advancement of disability rights.

4Findings

Dissemination of Hate Speech Against Muslims

A Facebook account operated by Yee Wai Phyo reshared a statement from the presidency of Thein Sein on the Rohingya issue. In doing so, the post included mocking and derogatory language targeting Muslims, referencing religious dietary prohibitions in a ridiculing manner. Source: Original post by Yee Wai Phyo.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (1))

Findings

A Facebook page named Daily Manna disseminated hate speech portraying Islam as a violent religion by misrepresenting the concept of “jihad,” which in Islamic teachings can refer to self-defense. The post suggested that an increase in Islam would lead to more violence. Source: Daily Manna Page.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (2))

Findings

Nationalist activist Ma Poe Ei, through her TikTok account, claimed that Islam uses financial means as a method of religious protection. She also alleged that Myanmar’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is backed by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), portraying Muslims as using financial power to influence the country unfairly and framing them as aggressors. Source: Original post by Ma Poe Ei.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (3))

A TikTok account operated by Sai Naw Kham spread hate speech suggesting that ongoing internal conflicts in Myanmar—despite being primarily linked to the military coup—are secretly driven by Muslims. The post portrayed Muslims as hostile actors seeking to take control of the country and its people. Source: Original post by Sai Naw Kham.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (4))

Findings

A TikTok account belonging to KoKo Soegyi disseminated hate speech claiming that some women in Myanmar marry Muslim men due to poverty and give birth to many children for them. The content framed Islam as a “breeding religion” and portrayed women married to Muslims as “destroyers of the nation,” using demeaning and inflammatory language. Source: Original post by KoKo Soegyi.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (5))

Dissemination of Hate Speech Against the Rohingya

A Facebook account operated by Mg Tun Win disseminated hate speech against Rohingya based on the case filed by The Gambia against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The post referred to Rohingya as “illegal immigrants,” claimed that Myanmar is burdened internation-ally because of the Rohingya issue, and suggested that the country would be peaceful without them, portraying them as violent actors. Source: Original post by Mg Tun Win.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (6))

Findings

A Facebook account belonging to Htinzaw Minn spread hate speech claiming that Rohingya in Rakhine State are merely “Bengalis” from Chittagong and labeling them as disloyal. The content portrayed Rohingya as inferior, untrustworthy, violent, and illegal entrants using derogatory language. Source: Original post by Htinzaw Minn.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (7))

Findings

A Facebook page named Maung Khin Kyi - Arakan State disseminated hate speech alleging that Rohingya fabricate history under the pretext of human rights. The post claimed that the non-existence of Rohingya in Myanmar is widely accepted and framed those asserting otherwise as shameless, portraying Rohingya as deceitful and violent actors. Source: Maung Khin Kyi - Arakan State Page.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (8))

Findings

Kyaw Soe Oo, a pro-military media figure associated with People Media, used his Facebook page to spread hate speech portraying Rohingya as “terrorist illegal immigrants.” His posts accused the Rohingya of being dishonest, religiously offensive, and shameless. Source: Original post by Kyaw Soe Oo.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (9))

Findings

A Facebook account operated by Than Dar claimed that there are no Rohingya in Myanmar and described them as illegal migrants seeking territory. The post further alleged that Rohingya refugees, while fleeing to third countries, deliberately avoid Islamic countries as part of an effort to damage Myanmar’s international image. Source: Original post by Than Dar.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (10))

Dissemination of Hate Speech Against Ethnic Armed Organizations

A Facebook account operated by Min Ye Thein Kha Thu reshared unverified information claiming that members of the People’s Defence Force (PDF) abducted, sexually assaulted, and killed a young girl in Min Kin Township. The post used this claim to portray PDF members as terrorists and to discredit the resistance movement. Source: Original post by Min Ye Thein Kha Thu.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (11))

A Telegram channel titled “Accurate News Without Concealment” shared reports of clashes between junta forces and PDF members, accompanied by hate speech using dehumanizing language against PDF fighters. Source: Original post from the channel.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (12))

Findings

A Telegram channel named “Hmine Wai” disseminated hate speech by sharing claims that resistance fighters were suffering from skin diseases, portraying PDF members as diseased and as violent actors responsible for killing monks and children. Source: Original post by Hmine Wai.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (13))

The same channel also spread unverified claims that residents in Hpakant had beaten and expelled members of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), using mocking and dehumanizing language toward KIA members. Source: Original post by Hmine Wai.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (14))

Findings

A TikTok account operated by Sai Naw Kham disseminated hate speech targeting KIA members killed in clashes in Banmauk Township, Kachin State, using derogatory and dehumanizing language. Source: Original post by Sai Naw Kham.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (15))

Reports of intensified clashes between junta forces and the Arakan Army (AA) in Rakhine State were shared on the Hmine Wai Telegram channel with accompanying hate speech portraying AA members as drug-addicted terrorists and using demeaning language. Source: Original post by Hmine Wai.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (16))

Findings

A pro-junta Telegram channel, “War News Compilation,” reported casualties among AA members in Gwa Township, Rakhine State, using dehumanizing and derogatory language in its coverage. Source: Original post from the channel.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (17))

A Telegram channel operated by Thazin Oo shared content mocking Chin People’s Defence Force members killed in clashes in Falam, Chin State, portraying them as terrorists and using humiliating language. Source: Original post by Thazin Oo.

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (18))

Hate Speech Targeting Women Involved in the Revolution

A Telegram channel operated by Mhone Wai reshared unverified information originally published by a pro-military website, NP News, regarding an alleged “virgin market” linked to Karen armed groups. This content was used to spread hate speech aimed at women participating in the revolution. In the post, derogatory language was used to portray female members of the People’s Defense Forces (PDF) as being sexually exploited by ethnic armed group leaders. (Original post: Mhine Wai)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (19))

The “Sit Thway” Telegram channel disseminated hate speech degrading women involved in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), claiming that female CDM participants had become prostitutes or sex slaves over the course of the five-year revolution. The post also included a cartoon intended to discredit the revolution, portraying CDM participants as traitors through mocking and demeaning language. (Original post: Sit Thway)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (20))

Findings

The Mhone Wai Telegram channel also circulated hate speech alleging that the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) had placed female soldiers in brothels. The content used mocking and derogatory language, further claiming that such actions contributed to the organization’s financial gains. (Original post: Mhine Wai)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (21))

Findings

Hate Speech Targeting Persons with Disabilities

A well-known traditional theatre performer, Aung Zabu troupe, faced a performance ban following a complaint filed by a disability rights organization after the troupe mocked persons with disabilities. The Blacker Page reshared statements by U Myat Thu Win regarding the complaint. In the comment sections, supporters of the Aung Zabu troupe launched harsh verbal attacks against U Myat Thu Win, who serves as the chair of a disability rights organization.

U Myat Thu Win, a disability rights advocate who is himself living with a neurological condition, was targeted with hate speech on social media. The Aatt Maran Hone Hkwin Facebook account posted derogatory remarks claiming that his physical condition was the result of moral failings and that he should “improve his mindset for a better next life.” (Original post: Aatt Maran Hone Hkwin)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (22))

Similarly, the Zin Mar Oo Facebook account insulted U Myat Thu Win’s physical appearance and went further by wishing that his condition would worsen in a future life. (Original post: Zin Mar Oo)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (23))

A user from the Ag Kyaw Htun account, identified as a supporter of the Aung Zabu performer, mocked persons with disabilities by attributing disability to karmic consequences, suggesting that individuals should “maintain a good mindset” rather than seeking accountability for discriminatory actions. (Original post: Ag Kyaw Htun)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (24))

The Yu Yu Facebook account posted content ridiculing persons with disabilities, claiming that individuals with physical impairments were attempting to “pull down” the success of Aung Zabu out of jealousy. (Original post: Yu Yu)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (25))

Likewise, the Yin Yin Win Facebook account dismissed the concerns raised by disability advocates, suggesting that such actions were merely attempts to gain attention, using mocking and dismissive language toward persons with disabilities. (Original post: Yin Yin Win)

(See the translation of the attached link below the conclusion (26))

5The figure illustrating types of hate speech

The figure illustrating types of hate speech

6The figure illustrating the number of hate speech targets

The figure illustrating the number of hate speech targets

7Keywords used by hate speech writers

Keywords used by hate speech writers

8Distribution by Platform

Distribution by Platform

9Conclusion

During February 2026, the spread of hate speech across online platforms in Myanmar remained persistently high and intensified, particularly around political, ethnic, and religious issues. Notably, information related to the hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was widely exploited to amplify incitement against Muslims and Rohingya communities, with extremist religious and ethnically charged narratives being systematically disseminated across social media platforms.

In conflict-affected areas, propaganda aimed at ethnic armed organizations continued to fuel suspicion, undermine their reputations, and instill fear among the public. Such narratives were often intertwined with misinformation, contributing to increased polarization within society. The proliferation of hate speech, combined with false or misleading information, has played a significant role in deepening divisions, eroding social trust, and potentially inciting real-world violence within communities.

The posts below are hate speech documented by BHRN. They are translated here only as evidence for this report.

Translation (1)

Yee Wai Phyo wrote:

What President U Thein Sein said is very clear.

To the countries shouting about human rights — since your countries are full of people who eat pork, why don’t you grant citizenship to these “non-pork-eating dog-like people”?

Myanmar cannot accept these “non-pork-eating jungle people.”

These people cannot be kept in any country in the world. So those who are compassionate and respect human rights can take them. As President U Thein Sein said, we will send them to you free of charge.

In Myanmar's history, the only person who speaks so cleverly is President U Thein Sein.

If countries, including the U.S., are willing to accept these stateless “Bengalis,” we will send them by ship or other means. We understand human rights, but we prioritize national security.

Translation (2)

Daily Manna wrote:

A true and devout follower of Islam follows the path of the Prophet Muhammad and is devoted to jihad.

Most Muslims are good people. I have met many of them. But when they become involved in jihad, that is when their goodness ends.

Most people I met don’t even understand true Islam. I showed them a video of a sheikh who confirmed that the power of Islam is jihad, seeking it out.

It is not just a struggle to be a good person. It is also about attacking people to convert them to Islam.

The sheikh confirmed that Muslims are not yet ready for jihad until they become stronger.

When Islam becomes stronger, we will see the violence of Muhammad in reality.

Image text:

Muslims are not yet ready for jihad until they are stronger. When Islam becomes stronger, we will witness Muhammad’s violence in reality.

Translation (3)

On a video about “Five Defense Strategies”:

In a video by Ma Puto, it was said that Islam defends itself using deception.

Translation (4)

Kyaw Min Lwin wrote:

The reason people are talking about ethnic issues on Myanmar social media is this:

Muslims are secretly controlling the revolution in Myanmar. Now that EAOs and PDFs are weakening, the controlling group is coming out openly, trying to take over the country using a fake ethnicity and calling for attacks on Myanmar.

Translation (5)

Ko Ko Soegyi wrote:

Because Myanmar women are poor, they are being used in a breeding project by “Indians,” unwillingly giving birth and helping destroy and swallow the nation and ethnicity.

Value and protect Myanmar women.

Translation (6)

Mg Tun Win wrote:

These illegal “Bengalis” should not be allowed to stay in Myanmar. The best solution is to expel them all.

They are nothing but troublemakers. If we deport them all, Myanmar will finally live in peace.

Translation (7)

Htin Zaw Min wrote:

“Savages from Northern Rakhine”

I have tried a lot to bring harmony between the two ethnic groups.

Even Rakhine people might think I am a traitor.

My father told me I was wrong — they don’t want peace, they want Rakhine land.

(My family background explanation…)

Not all Bengalis are the same. Mainland Bengalis are reasonable, but those here (from Chittagong) lack intelligence and humanity.

They are the lowest and worst people. They believe lying is a strategy and are not ashamed to deceive the world.

Even if you try with goodwill, they do not have good intentions.

Mixing with them will only corrupt you.

These people are not accepted anywhere, not even by their own kind. They are disloyal and always thinking about violence.

They are religious extremists. Their statelessness is due to their own inferiority.

Do not respond with moderation — they will win through extremism.

Translation (8)

Maung Khin Kyi wrote:

These “Bengalis” lie to the international community using human rights and fake history and identity.

There has never been a “Rohingya” ethnicity in Myanmar — all Myanmar people know this.

It is shocking and shameful how they keep claiming otherwise.

Translation (9)

Kyaw Soe Oo wrote:

You terrorist illegal immigrants — how long will you keep lying?

You insult religion and ethnicity and still want to live in Myanmar shamelessly.

Translation (10)

Than Dar wrote:

Write “Bengali” — there is no Rohingya in Myanmar.

They are illegal immigrants who want land. When things go bad, they pretend to be refugees and move to developed countries.

Why don’t they go to Muslim countries? The answer is obvious.

Stop writing for money and damaging the country’s image.

Translation (11)

Min Ye Thein Kha wrote:

PDF members are all rapists.

(Shared post describing an alleged rape and murder of a 16-year-old girl by resistance forces.)

Translation (12)

“Uncovered Truth” channel wrote:

Killing 6 PDF members with one drone bomb is very worth it. Much cheaper than a 500-pound bomb.

With those 6 “PDF dogs” gone, others are now afraid to fight.

The military will soon use drone swarms to suppress them. Run away quickly, PDF.

(Shared post describing 6 resistance fighters killed in a drone strike and buried properly.)

Translation (13)

Hmine Wai (on Kantarawaddy Times post):

Terrorist PDFs who kill monks, children, teachers, burn houses, and plant mines are now suffering from skin diseases in the जंगल.

Because they are evil, they are getting diseases.

Do not let them enter villages — they will infect everyone.

Translation (14)

Hmine Wai wrote (about KIA):

Defeated terrorist KIA forcibly recruits civilians, beats them, and runs away like dogs and pigs.

They are all drug users. People should beat them.

Translation (15)

Advisor Sai Naw Kham wrote:

The “dog-burning group” is coming to Banmaw

(meaning KIA will be burned/killed)

Translation (16)

Hmine Wai (about AA):

A drugged terrorist AA member was shot and collapsed instantly. Very satisfying.

More good news from Rakhine.

Translation (17)

Battle report post:

Two AA rebel bodies, weapons, and ammunition were seized. No casualties on our side.

Good news — the “dog rebels” AA are collapsing.

Translation (18)

Thazin Oo wrote:

Many Chin resistance fighters died horribly and went to hell in recent battles.

Because of heavy losses, they are forcibly recruiting even children and sending them to the front lines to die.

If this continues, the Chin people will face destruction.

Translation (19)

Hmine Wai (about KNPP/PDF):

“Epstein-like” activities are happening in Kayah State.

Using public donations to turn female PDF members into sex slaves.

That’s why starving PDF members are surrendering.

(Shared post about alleged “virgin market” involving armed group leaders.)

Translation (20)

Sit Thway wrote:

In the past 5 years, traitorous civil servants have become prostitutes and beggars.

Meanwhile, NUG leaders are getting rich abroad, owning houses and cars.

Those traitors should realize their mistakes and return to the right path.

Translation (21)

Hmine Wai wrote (about KIA):

KIA is making money by forcing female soldiers into brothels in Mongjaryang.

This is getting very bad.

Translation (22)

Aatt Maran Hone Hkwin wrote a comment :

Your bad condition as a disabled person in this life is due to your mindset — keep a good mind for the next life.

Translation (23)

Zin Mar Oo wrote a comment:

With your ugly face and bad karma, your next life will be even worse.

Translation (24)

Ag Kyaw Htun wrote a comment:

Your suffering body is due to past karma — please keep a good mind for the next life.

Translation (25)

Yu Yu wrote a comment:

You are disabled and useless; you can’t even dance — disgusting. You may not even be human in your next life.

Translation (26)

Yin Yin Win wrote a comment:

Even though disabled, you have a bad mindset and just want attention.

About BHRN

Burma Human Rights Network (BHRN) is based in London, operates across Burma/Myanmar and works for human rights, minority rights and religious freedom in Burma. BHRN has played a crucial role in advocating for human rights and religious freedom with politicians and world leaders.

Media enquiries

Kyaw WinExecutive DirectorBurma Human Rights Network (BHRN)This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.+44(0) 740 345 2378
Ye MinEditorThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.+66(0) 994 942 358
Wai YanResearcherThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Follow BHRN

Get our latest press releases and reports.

More Digital Hate monthly reports

All Digital Hate monthly reports →