Accra: On today’s International Human Rights Day, the European Union reiterates its steadfast support for the people of Myanmar in their aspiration to live in dignity, peace, and freedom. The EU condemns ongoing grave human rights violations, including torture, sexual and gender-based violence, and the persecution of civil society, human rights defenders, and journalists.
According to EMM, the European Union is closely monitoring developments related to the electoral process announced by the State Security and Peace Commission in Myanmar. The Myanmar military regime portrays these elections as a step in its political roadmap. However, the EU asserts that essential conditions for free and fair elections are not present, with a credible, transparent, and inclusive process absent. The elections appear aimed at bolstering the junta’s legitimacy.
Widespread violence, restrictions on fundamental freedoms, mass detentions, and the exclusion of key political actors severely undermine the process’s credibility. Many areas remain affected by conflict, humanitarian needs are rising, and forced internal displacements are intensifying, with civic space being tightly constrained.
Large segments of the population and political spectrum, including many minorities and parties with significant popular support, are barred from participating in the elections. Despite a recent amnesty, many citizens remain arbitrarily detained, and new laws criminalizing criticism of the electoral process further erode free expression. The current environment for electoral preparations does not foster public trust or comply with international standards to which Myanmar is committed.
The EU urges all stakeholders to prioritize an immediate ceasefire, end violence, engage in inclusive political dialogue, and allow unhindered humanitarian access. A sustainable political solution cannot be achieved through a process lacking legitimacy or risking further division. Addressing discrimination and human rights violations against ethnic minorities must be part of the political solution to Myanmar’s crisis.
In support of ASEAN’s Centrality, the EU calls for the full and effective implementation of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus to de-escalate the crisis and lay the groundwork for a peaceful and inclusive future for Myanmar. The EU is ready to support genuine efforts leading to a sustainable and just end to violence and an inclusive dialogue process.