UN Rights Chief Warns of Severe Humanitarian Crisis in Myanmar

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk described Myanmar’s situation as a profound human rights crisis, with significant civilian suffering due to ongoing conflicts and economic collapse. In 2024, over 1,800 civilians were killed, exacerbating a humanitarian catastrophe that has displaced millions and left many vulnerable to hunger and violence. The international community is called upon to increase efforts to provide assistance and accountability for human rights violations.

On Friday, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk highlighted Myanmar’s severe human rights crisis, referring to it as “a litany of human suffering.” He addressed the Human Rights Council, emphasizing the dire consequences stemming from ongoing conflicts and economic decay, which have led to widespread civilian displacement and suffering. In 2024 alone, over 1,800 civilians were reported killed, marking the highest toll since the military coup in 2021. Indiscriminate attacks on schools and healthcare facilities have become tragically commonplace.

Mr. Türk condemned the military’s inhumane tactics, which include beheadings, mutilations, and the implementation of human shields. He revealed that nearly 2,000 individuals have died in custody since the coup, largely due to summary executions and torture. The escalating violence between the junta forces and armed opposition has resulted in a humanitarian disaster, leaving more than 3.5 million people displaced and 15 million at risk of hunger.

The humanitarian crisis particularly worsens in Rakhine state, where violent confrontations between the military and the Arakan Army have led to significant civilian casualties, affecting the Rohingya communities caught in the turmoil. Despite severe border restrictions, tens of thousands of Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in 2024, with reports of at least 650 individuals, half of whom were children, perishing during their treacherous sea journey.

Additionally, the economic collapse in Myanmar has triggered rampant corruption and organized crime, making it the foremost global hub for drug production and human trafficking. Scam operations in eastern Myanmar have gained notoriety, where victims are subjected to cybercrime, torture, and various forms of violence. The junta’s enforcement of military conscription laws has intensified arbitrary arrests and forced recruitment campaigns, prompting many to flee the country, exposing them to further dangers including trafficking.

Mr. Türk emphasized the urgent need for enhanced international assistance in light of the ongoing humanitarian, political, and economic crises affecting the region. He advocated for an arms embargo and targeted sanctions against military leaders, while also calling for accountability measures through the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice to address the atrocities committed by Myanmar’s military leaders.

The situation in Myanmar is critical, characterized by extreme violence and systemic human rights abuses following the military coup. The United Nations urges stronger international action to support the devastated civilian population and hold accountable those responsible for these transgressions. The ongoing issues of economic collapse and humanitarian crises underscore the urgency for a concerted global response.

Original Source: news.un.org