Mixed Media

Nightstand

Isok Kim, assistant professor in the School of Social Work

“State of Strife: The Dynamics of Ethnic Conflict in Burma,” by Martin Smith.

“I’m reading this book to better understand the complex linguistic diversity and ethnic conflicts in Burma (Myanmar). Burma has been engulfed in one of the longest-running civil wars in the world, which has contributed to political turmoil, sharp economic decline and a refugee crisis. Smith highlights historical interethnic negotiations, greatly influenced by both Eastern and Western powers, which have played out on regional, national and international stages. Smith believes it’s time the international community prioritize conflict resolution to bring this humanitarian crisis to a close.”