The European Union, along with the governments of the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Timor-Leste, and the United Kingdom have issued a joint statement addressing the human rights and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. The statement highlights concerns over escalating violence and intercommunal tensions.
The joint statement expresses alarm over reports of human rights violations and abuses against civilians. These include "abduction and forced recruitment of children and members of ethnic and religious minorities; the Myanmar military’s indiscriminate aerial bombardments that kill and injure civilians and damage civilian infrastructure; sexual and gender-based violence; the burning of homes; attacks on humanitarian workers and facilities; and restrictions on humanitarian access by the military regime and various armed groups." There are also reports of dismemberment and burning of civilians.
Particular concern is directed towards Rakhine State where intensified conflict affects all communities including Rohingya. The statement underscores "the grave dangers to civilians" due to violations targeting Rohingya alongside historical intercommunal tensions.
The lack of safe havens for civilians amid ongoing violence is troubling. The conflict has displaced over 3.5 million people while more than 15 million face acute food insecurity. Disease outbreaks like cholera are rising as access constraints hinder medical aid delivery.
The statement urges Myanmar's military regime to de-escalate violence, respect international laws, protect civilians, and allow unimpeded humanitarian access. It stresses that resolving discrimination against Rohingya is crucial for a political solution.
Additionally, it calls for implementing UNSC resolution 2669 (2022) which demands an end to violence in Myanmar. Support is reiterated for ASEAN's role in resolving the crisis through dialogue towards inclusive democracy.
