Located at a strategic Asian crossroads, Burma (Myanmar)1 is one of the world?s most ethnically diverse countries. Surrounded by Bangladesh, China, India, Laos and Thailand, it is also one of the most strife-torn and lawless along its 3,650-mile border. Its post-colonial experience exemplifies how illicit economies, insurgent or military-based politics and cross-border human movement can flourish in the wake of failed attempts to create a modern nation-state...Since Burma?s independence from Great Britain in 1948, an array of state, quasi-state and insurgent groups have used armed violence to pursue their goals across all three political eras: parliamentary democracy (1948-62), General Ne Win?s ‘Burmese Way to Socialism? (1962-88), and the military State Peace and Development Council (post-1988). In the 21st century, Burma?s socio-political landscape continues to reflect conditions of conflict. Particularly in the conflict zones, the line between ‘legality? and ‘illegality? is frequently blurred....