PEOPLE’S DEFENCE FORCE

The People’s Defence Force is a local militia formed in 2021 in Kalaymyo, Sagaing Region, by Myanmar youths aligned with the National Unity Government and pro-democracy activists, in response to the military coup of February 1, 2021, and ensuing violence under the junta. Organized into approximately 12 battalions (totaling over 800 members), PDF  operates in concert with allied groups such as the Chin National Army, Chin National Defence Force, and Chinland Defense Force, as part of the broader People’s Defence Force network resisting the State Administration Council across the Myanmar civil war.