**Amyotha Hluttaw**, Myanmar's upper house of parliament known as the House of Nationalities, plays a pivotal role in the bicameral Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (Assembly of the Union), representing the nation's ethnic diversity alongside the lower Pyithu Hluttaw.[1][2][6] Comprising **224 members**—168 directly elected from equal quotas across 14 regions and states (12 each) and 56 appointed by the military—it ensures balanced regional input in legislation, with both houses holding equal powers; bills require approval from each, or a joint vote resolves disputes.[1][2][3][6] Established under the 2008 Constitution, it emerged post-military rule as Myanmar transitioned toward democracy, holding its first elections in 2010 and marking a shift from junta dominance.[2][5][6] Elected every five years by universal suffrage, it gained prominence in 2015 when the National League for Democracy (NLD) secured a majority, electing Mahn Win Khaing Than as Speaker; this term extended through 2020 polls.[3][6] Key achievements include modifying junta-era laws, scrutinizing budgets, fostering public debate, and building legislative capacity via research services and consultations—nascent steps toward oversight in a historically authoritarian context.[4][5] The 2021 military coup disrupted this progress: Acting President Myint Swe dissolved the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, transferring powers to coup leader Min Aung Hlaing amid a declared emergency, suspending parliamentary functions.[6][8] As of late 2025, the regime has initiated elections—the first phase reported with over 5,000 candidates for nearly 950 seats, primarily in the lower house—signaling attempts to legitimize control, though the Amyotha Hluttaw's status remains tied to this volatile process.[9] Notable for its military quota (2