The following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the European Union to address the ongoing conflict in Myanmar.
"We, Australia, Canada, the European Union, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, are deeply concerned by the escalating conflict in Myanmar and in particular the increasing harm to civilians, which is driving a worsening and devastating human rights and humanitarian crisis across the country."
Since the February 2021 coup d’état, humanitarian needs have surged from 1 million to 18.6 million people. There have been credible reports of violations against civilians including airstrikes on homes, schools, places of worship and hospitals; torture; use of civilians as human shields; and sexual and gender-based violence against women and children. The ongoing conflict has led to further displacement across communities in Myanmar.
"The military regime is systematically restricting access to life-saving humanitarian assistance. We are concerned about growing water and food shortages and the widespread denial of access to healthcare, medicines, and vital humanitarian services. The continued blocking of roads and telecommunications in areas of conflict is hindering humanitarian delivery and access to information."
In 2023 alone, more than 1,000 civilians were killed or maimed by landmines with casualties rapidly increasing. Human trafficking incidents are also on the rise. "All parties must ensure that they are prioritizing the protection of civilians."
The statement expressed deep concern over the military regime’s implementation of a 2010 conscription law which has increased displacement. This measure reportedly aims to divide communities and fuel identity-based violence.
"In Rakhine State," towns and villages have been consistently targeted by both military forces and armed groups. Recent reports indicate high levels of displacement in Buthidaung. "We call on all armed actors to ensure the protection of civilians." Misinformation campaigns are exacerbating sectarian conflicts while forced recruitment efforts further exploit community tensions.
"There must be accountability for all atrocities committed in Myanmar." The statement recalls compliance with an International Court of Justice provisional measures order aimed at safeguarding human rights.
The governments welcomed UN Security Council Resolution 2669 which calls for an immediate end to violence in Myanmar while urging respect for human rights and unhindered humanitarian access.
"We welcome the appointment of the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General on Myanmar (UNSE) and unified efforts by ASEAN," along with regional actors working towards resolving this crisis. They reiterated support for strengthened UN leadership within Myanmar.
"We reiterate our call on all States to prevent or cease the flow of arms or military and dual-use material," including aviation fuel destined for Myanmar's military forces.
Finally, they called for releasing all arbitrarily detained individuals while fully implementing ASEAN's Five Point Consensus. "We call on all parties to create space for meaningful and inclusive dialogue so that democracy can be restored in full."
"We remain resolute in our support for all those committed to working peacefully towards an inclusive," non-violent democratic future for Myanmar's people.
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