An accelerating exodus of young Mon people fleeing political turmoil and military conscription is sparking severe labor shortages, demographic shifts, and fears of cultural erosion in southern Myanmar, according to local leaders and youth representatives. The departure of working-age adults has created widespread labor shortages across Mon State's core economic sectors—including rubber plantations, salt production, agriculture, fisheries, and construction. To fill the void, local businesses are increasingly hiring migrant workers from other parts of Myanmar, particularly the Bago and Ayeyarwady regions. "Many villages are now made up mostly of children and elderly residents," said a youth representative from Ye Township. Because most of these students fall within the age bracket targeted by the junta's military draft, local community members say it remains highly uncertain whether those who leave will ever return.