On January 6, 2025, the High Representative of the European Union, alongside the governments of the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Timor-Leste, and the United Kingdom, released a joint statement expressing deep concern about the worsening human rights and humanitarian situation in Myanmar.
The statement highlights the alarming escalation of violence and intercommunal tensions. It condemns the violent repression employed by the regime against the people of Myanmar, calling the ongoing attacks and violations “unacceptable.” Reports of serious human rights abuses include the abduction and forced recruitment of children, as well as attacks on ethnic and religious minorities.
Key violations and urgent calls for action
The joint statement outlines specific violations, noting the Myanmar military’s indiscriminate aerial bombardments that result in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Disturbing incidents of sexual and gender-based violence, as well as assaults on humanitarian workers and facilities, further underscore the dire situation.
Particularly concerning is the intensification of conflict in Rakhine State, affecting all communities, including the Rohingya. The statement emphasizes the lack of safe areas for civilians and the humanitarian needs that have surged due to ongoing violence and denial of aid access by the military regime.
The joint statement urges the military regime and all armed groups in Myanmar to de-escalate violence and respect international humanitarian and human rights laws. It calls for the protection of civilians and emphasizes the importance of allowing full and unimpeded humanitarian access to provide life-saving aid to women, children, and ethnic minorities.
The representatives reaffirm support for the United Nations Security Council resolution 2669 (2022), which calls for an immediate end to all forms of violence in Myanmar. They also commend ASEAN’s central role in seeking a resolution to the crisis and encourage constructive dialogue to reach a peaceful solution and restore inclusive democracy in Myanmar.
Read the full statement here.
Source: European Union
