The article discusses the ongoing violence and atrocities in Myanmar, Ethiopia's Tigray region, and South Sudan. In Myanmar, the military has been using heavy weaponry against civilians and resistance groups, resulting in deaths and potential war crimes. The military junta is also suppressing press freedom, detaining journalists like American Danny Fenster. In Tigray, there are reports of white phosphorus being used against civilians, which is prohibited under International Humanitarian Law. Both Ethiopian and Eritrean forces are present in the region, and the Ethiopian government denies using such weapons. In South Sudan, despite a peace agreement, violence has escalated, and humanitarian workers are increasingly targeted, with the International Rescue Committee reporting casualties. The UN Security Council is considering whether to extend South Sudan's arms embargo due to unmet benchmarks related to humanitarian access and human rights violations.

The article discusses the aftermath of the military coup in Myanmar on January 31st, where the National League for Democracy was ousted and its leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi, were detained. It covers the civil disobedience movement in Myanmar, the imposition of U.S. sanctions by President Joe Biden's administration, and similar actions by Canada and Britain. The effectiveness of economic sanctions is questioned, citing research that suggests they often fail to achieve their goals and can worsen situations by causing a 'rally round the flag' effect. The article also touches on the debate over 'targeted' sanctions and their unintended broad impacts, such as the humanitarian consequences seen in the 1990s in Iraq. It concludes with the observation that multilateral sanctions are generally more effective than unilateral ones and that targeted countries are more likely to concede to allies than adversaries.

The article discusses the growing civil disobedience movement in Myanmar following the military coup on February 1. Residents of Yangon have started forming community defense units to protect their neighborhoods from the military and police, who are arresting dissidents. These units, which include people like tour operator Aung Than, are keeping watch overnight, equipped with makeshift weapons. The military's actions, including the release of over 23,000 prisoners and the intimidation of government workers, have escalated fear and rumors among the populace. Despite the risks of curfew and potential military action, the community's response has led to increased coordination and solidarity. The article also touches on the historical context of the 1988 uprising and the current sentiment towards the military leadership.