Kayah State - Demographics

Demographics

Ethnographers classify anywhere from seven to ten ethnic groups (not including ethnic sub-groups) as native to Kayah State. In addition, Shan, Intha, and Bamar live in the north and Pa-O in surrounding hills. Each group is also known by more than one name. Clearly, ethnicity in Kayah State is a complex issue, made more complex by the current political situation. According to the 1983 census conducted by UN and the Burmese government, the Kayah composed 56.12%, while Bamar (17.58%), Shan (16.66%), Karen (6.45%), mixed races (2.08%), and other groups formed minorities. Ethnolinguists distinguish the following linguistic groups in Kayah State:

1. Karenni (Red Karen)
2. Padaung (Kayan)
3. Bwe
4. Geba
5. Manumanaw
6. Yantale
7. Zayein (Lahta)
8. Geko
9. Yinbaw
10. Paku