Burma is composed of several minority ethnic groups. After gaining independence from Britain, these ethnic groups demanded self-rule and independence, but they were brutally suppressed by successive Burmese regimes. The ethnic groups have risen against the Burmese government, particularly the Karen National Union (KNU). The union has its stronghold in the Irrawaddy Delta and along the Tanaosi Mountain Range. The union is divided into two groups: the West and the East. Furthermore, the groups have formed multilateral agreements with other ethnic groups against the government. The Karen have their own language, traditions and culture. They have organized their own education and administrative systems as well as tried to be recognized by the global community. Their attempts have angered the regime, so they have been violently suppressed, particularly along the Thai-Burmese border, which have affected our national security and diplomatic relationships with the Burmese.