Meta removes Myanmar military accounts after advocacy push

Meta has taken down more than a hundred Facebook pages, profiles and groups linked to Myanmar’s military junta and its business arms, following pressure from campaigners.

The advocacy group Justice For Myanmar (JFM) said the removals targeted accounts tied to telecom operators Mytel and MECtel, as well as propaganda outlets MRTV and MWD. Both networks are part of the Myanmar Economic Corporation, a conglomerate under junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, already sanctioned by the EU, UK, US, Australia and Canada.

Meta’s action stems from its 2021 ban on military‑controlled businesses and media. JFM argues that despite repeated removals, the junta’s companies have continued to reappear online under new names, using Facebook to market services and spread propaganda.

The crackdown comes as Myanmar’s generals prepare for a widely denounced election.

Other platforms have also acted: Twitch and Kick removed MRTV, while TikTok banned MWD. Campaigners say these steps limit the junta’s ability to livestream and spread hate speech, but insist more must be done.

“Alphabet, Apple, TikTok and Telegram must also ban the Myanmar military junta and its businesses from their platforms,” JFM declared, urging a united front against online propaganda.

The removals highlight the ongoing battle between tech giants and authoritarian regimes seeking to exploit social media. For Myanmar’s opposition, each deletion is a small victory in curbing the junta’s digital reach, though campaigners warn the fight is far from over.

-2026-05-28