BBC News: Burma’s saffron army

Haven’t we seen this too many times before?! Peaceful demonstrations, then the ruling powers intervene. Bloodshed and chaos follows, but sooner or later the people win.

But then what? A new government is formed and often fails.

It is very hard to recreate a working state apparatus after years of abuse and corruption. Power structures, ministries and other important parts of a working state are not built over night. Good government and experienced bureaucrats don’t grow on trees - and you need them to run the show!

The reason why so many corrupt governments stay in place for so long is by killing all other able politicians and power elites. So people are unable to organize a revolt or renew the state from within.

Let’s hope Burma can makes this as easy and peaceful as possible.