Can regime change improve ethnic relations? Perception of ethnic minorities after the 2021 coup in Myanmar

Abstract Regime change often exacerbates ethnic conflict. This article examines the curious case of Myanmar, where a 2021 military coup was met, on surface, with broad-based resistance across divided society. An important question that therefore arises is whether, below this unity also took more positive form national solidarity. Were deep cleavages intensified or alleviated by coup? bears theoretical relevance for study conflict and has social nation marked long history civil war recent experience genocide against Rohingya Muslims. The engages in systematic examination 180 media posts uploaded Burmese key opinion leaders both before after coup. A qualitative analysis major negative themes indicates shift attitudes. quantitative shows relations, measured themes, ratings virality, improved significantly immediate aftermath Myanmar's