In 1948 Burma became independent from Britain. From 1962 to 2011 the country was ruled by an oppressive military junta. A gradual process of democratization then began. However, it has to be stated that as long as the army retains its current level of power, no major changes can be expected. The army not only has a powerful constitutional position and remains a strong political factor, it is also deeply involved in legal and illicit trade, which mainly affects predominantly Christian areas like Kachin State…where even killings of Christians are reported.” Open Doors Report