ADVISORY COMMISSION ON RAKHINE STATE INTER-COMMUNAL COHESION As witnessed by the Commission during its visits to Rakhine, many local communities are fearful. Both Rakhine and Muslim communities are anxious about the possibility of renewed inter-communal violence, and mutual distrust runs deep. While such sentiments can be found in all parts of the state, they are particularly prevalent in the north and the centre. Inter-communal tension does not represent something inherently new to Rakhine. Since colonial times, cooperation and cohabitation have intermittently been disrupted by tension and rivalry. Yet, the waves of violence in 2012 represented a watershed. The upheaval, which affected all townships of the state – albeit with varying intensity – disrupted social and economic ties which were built up over decades. And although relations may have somewhat improved during the following years, positive developments were partially or fully cancelled out by the recent escalation of violence in northern Rakhine State in October 2016. The events in 2012 represented a comprehensive disentanglement of the two communities. Muslims (including Kamans) were largely pushed out of the main cities of the state – including Sittwe, Kyawkpyuh, Myebon, Kyawktaw and Mrauk U – and more than 130,000 were confined to IDP camps (where around 120,000 remain). Moreover, restrictions on freedom of movement for Muslims outside the camps were intensified, reducing the scope of intercommunal interaction. The Government has actively supported this drive towards segregation, arguing that stability and security can only be achieved through the separation of the communities. Yet, the picture is not all bleak. In some areas, local Rakhine and Muslim leaders have successfully managed to overcome the prevailing atmosphere of distrust, and found ways to live peacefully together. Often, they have done so despite agitation from hardliners within both communities, and with the risk of reprisals. It should also be noted that the recent violence in northern Rakhine State did not spread to other parts of Rakhine, unlike events in 2012. This should serve to inspire the Government, civil society and local communities to intensify their efforts to build bridges between the communities. Some Township Administrators have already taken the initiative to facilitate interaction and engagement between Buddhist and Muslim communities. Such efforts have helped alleviate concerns surrounding interreligious events and issues, and have strengthened trust in the ability of the authorities to manage communal tensions. Nonetheless, these local efforts are only the beginning of a long journey towards conflict transformation. Many of the 50 Towards a Peaceful, Fair and Prosperous Future for the People of Rakhine