Mizzima
Khin Omar, representing the Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) delivered an oral statement during the 55th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council, on 19 March 2024.
FORUM-ASIA is a network of 85 member organisations across 23 countries, mainly in Asia. Founded in 1991, FORUM-ASIA works to strengthen movements for human rights and sustainable development through research, advocacy, capacity development and solidarity actions in Asia and beyond. It has consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, and consultative relationship with the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights.
Below is a transcript of Khin Omar’s speech:
Mr. President, Mr. Special Rapporteur,
In their brave struggle against the illegal military junta, Myanmar’s peoples, particularly the young generations, have demonstrated unwavering determination to be free from military tyranny and build a new Myanmar that upholds humanity, dignity, democracy, and justice. Their past 3 years of immense sacrifices and efforts must be matched with recognition, political will and practical support of the international community to overcome daunting challenges.
We must confront the grim reality of airstrikes devastating the country, enabled by the arms sale and transfer. It is a misconception that aviation fuel is used to transport humanitarian aid including children’s vaccines in Myanmar. In reality, it only fuels more airstrikes that inflict unimaginable suffering upon innocent civilians, including children. We call for an immediate cessation of sales and transfer of arms and aviation fuel to the junta.
Amidst the deepening humanitarian crisis, in order for the aid to reach the more than 2.7 million people internally displaced by the junta’s violence, external aid actors must prioritize the principles of do no harm and humanity and support locally-led humanitarian initiatives, operating independently of the junta and its affiliates, through cross-border channels.
ASEAN, the UN and international peace donors need to honor our people’s pursuit of a new federal democratic Myanmar. The so-called “5-Point Consensus” cannot serve as a legitimate peace plan as it lacks not only participation and the consent of our peoples but fails to address the root cause of the crisis – the military.
The one-sided, externally imposed peace plan of the past decade, without our people’s consent and at the expense of accountability, only prolonged the cycles of violence, as we are witnessing now.
We urge ASEAN and the international community to priortise accountability and justice, and formally engage and collaborate with the National Unity Government, Ethnic Resistance Organizations, and civil society organizations to support their efforts for enduring durable peace and stability in Myanmar and the ASEAN. Any peace plan for Myanmar must seek the consent of Myanmar’s peoples.
Thank you.
