London, U.K. -- With the 34th ASEAN Summit occurring this weekend BHRN strongly urges member nations to use their platforms to hold Burma accountable for crimes committed against minorities inside the country. While ASEAN takes a non-interference stance on internal affairs of member states, the actions of Burma are so particularly egregious that an exception must be made. The actions committed against minorities in Burma have also had an especially detrimental impact on neighbouring states as well, as millions of refugees fleeing conflict have sought refuge and safety over the years.
“ASEAN nations are in a unique position of influence to hold Burma accountable for actions which cause severe harm to minority populations and disturb the well being of ASEAN nations. The many conflicts in Burma have spilled over into neighbouring states and as conflict and human rights violations continue this will only get worse. ASEAN nations must use their platform now to voice concerns to prevent even greater tragedies and disruptions from occurring,” Said Kyaw Win, BHRN’s Executive Director.
Burma has engaged in genocidal military campaigns against the Rohingya population and there are now more than a million refugees from the conflict living in Bangladesh. Since violence against the Rohingya began in 2012, thousands of Rohingya refugees have fled by boat seeking safety in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The conflicts throughout Burma have spilled over into neighbouring states, as Burma insists on continuing their decades-old conflicts against ethnic minority groups throughout the country. These conflicts are most inflamed currently in Shan and Rakhine State, but Kachin and Karen states remain of great concern. Refugees from these conflicts often flee for ASEAN states, particularly Thailand and Malaysia.
These issues are urgent and negatively impacting the well being of ASEAN member states. It is vital for the prosperity and security of these states, as well as the moral standing of the summit, that Burma’s crimes are addressed. The greater international community should offer support to these states in addressing these issues, especially those states which have taken in refugees while their own economies are struggling.
Background on the Burma Human Rights Network (BHRN)
BHRN is based in London and operates across Burma/Myanmar working for human rights, minority rights and religious freedom in the country. BHRN has played a crucial role in advocating for human rights and religious freedom with politicians and world leaders.
Media Enquiries
Please contact:
Kyaw Win
Executive Director
Burma Human Rights Network (BHRN)
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T: +44(0) 740 345 2378
BHRN's Press Release PDF
