The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) is the armed wing of the Karen National Union (KNU), a political organization representing the Karen people in Myanmar. Established in 1947, the KNLA aims to secure autonomy and rights for the Karen ethnic group, which has faced discrimination and violence in Myanmar. The group has engaged in armed conflict against the Myanmar military to achieve its goals. The KNLA operates primarily in the Karen State and surrounding areas, often conducting guerrilla warfare. The organization has received support from various international groups and has been involved in peace negotiations with the Myanmar government, although tensions remain high in the region.