EU Expresses Deep Alarm Over Human Rights Violations in Myanmar

Geneva: The European Union (EU) has voiced its deep concern over the ongoing human rights violations faced by Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. Representing EU member states on the Council, a spokesperson highlighted the EU's collective position on the matter during a recent session. According to European Union, the human rights abuses against the Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar remain a pressing issue. The situation has been exacerbated by Myanmar military's actions, with air strikes identified as the primary cause of destruction and suffering. Additionally, elections held by the military, criticized for lacking freedom and fairness, have further fueled violence in the region. The EU has expressed its approval of the draft resolution, which strongly condemns the atrocities committed and calls for an immediate cessation of violence by all parties involved. While acknowledging some improvements in the resolution's text this year, the EU regrets the absence of language addressing the halting of arms transfers to Myanmar. This omission persists despite repeated appeals from the High Commissioner and the Special Rapporteur. The EU emphasizes that the Myanmar military should be held accountable for the majority of human rights violations and abuses, as well as breaches of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Furthermore, the EU acknowledges and supports Bangladesh's significant efforts in hosting over one million Rohingya refugees. However, it points out that conditions for their safe, voluntary, dignified, and sustainable return to Myanmar are not currently in place. This includes the need for unrestricted humanitarian access to Rakhine State and meaningful progress in addressing the crisis's root causes, aspects that the EU believes should have been more clearly expressed in the resolution. The EU expressed gratitude towards the penholders for their constructive role in negotiations and commended the Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) efforts in maintaining the Council's focus on the Myanmar situation. The EU underscores the importance of delivering a strong message to all victims of violence and repression in Myanmar, including Rohingya and other ethnic or religious minorities, affirming the Council's support, commitment to justice, and determination to hold perpetrators accountable. In conclusion, the EU has indicated its willingness to join the consensus on the resolution, emphasizing the importance of a united international response to the crisis.