The KNU's mission is to build a genuine federal union that brings together all Karen nationalities and other ethnic groups to foster social harmony, peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the entire nation.

The KNU's headquarters is located in Klo Yaw Lay, and its armed wings consist of the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and Karen National Defense Organization (KNDO). KNU's administrative structure includes 7 districts: Thaton district, Taungoo district, Nyaung Lay Pin District, Myeik/Dawei District, Muttraw District, Dupalaya District, and Hpa Ahn District. The KNU encompasses 14 departments, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Defense.

The KNU has actively participated in peace talks with successive Myanmar governments. In 2012, it signed preliminary peace-building agreements at both state/regional and union levels.

On October 15, 2015, the KNU played a leading role by signing the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) alongside other armed organizations. However, on October 27, 2018, the KNU suspended its participation in the peace process. The KNU released several statements concerning Myanmar's political situation. KNU cautioned against the military coup on 29 January 2021.

It responded to the military's seizure of power on February 2, 2021, by earnestly requesting the release of detainees and advocating for peaceful dialogue. On February 14, 2021, it issued a statement opposing the coup. The KNU's districts also issued statements supporting non-violent protests against the coup and condemning junta's atrocities. KNU also released statements on the junta attacks on the civilians. It condemned airstrikes on 27-31 March 2021 and on 2 April 2021. KNU provided military trainings and protection of CDM-ers and civilians in its controlled areas. It relased "KNU principles on current situation on 3 September 2021. It rejected the junta's invitation for peace talk on 9 May 2022, saying inclusive dialogue with relevant stakeholders was impossible in curent context. Joint statements have been released in collaboration with other groups and organizations against the military regime, including NUG, CRPH, KNPP, CNF, NLD, and ABSDF on humanitarian assistance and crimess committed by the junta.

Clashes with junta forces are ongoing in all seven districts controlled by the KNU. The junta forces have launched aerial attacks, causing civilian casualties and leading to increasing displacement. The KNU consistently opposes the war-mongering junta, as evident from its statements and actions.

The KNU is a member organization of the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC).

References
1. https://www.knuhq.org/public/mm
2. https://www.khrg.org/my/reports

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