Mizzima
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) released a statement on 9 May 2024, voicing its concern over the situation in Rakhine State.
This follows a statement by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) Chief Volker Türk, on 16 April 2024, expressing his concern for the situation in Rakhine State.
Below is the UNOCHA statement:
The UN is deeply concerned over the escalating conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Civilians face devastating violence, rising intercommunal tensions and forced recruitment by parties to the conflict.
Fighting is rapidly escalating between the Arakan Army and Myanmar Armed Forces in Buthidaung in northern Rakhine. This comes amid reports that other armed groups are now joining the conflict, sparking fears of intercommunal violence, as well as fear among civilians and aid workers. As the Arakan Army moves closer to the downtown area, military airstrikes have also intensified.
All parties to the conflict are reminded of their obligations under International Humanitarian Law not to target aid workers or the premises of humanitarian organizations.
Amid the worsening security situation across the country, the UN reiterates its call for the protection of civilians in Myanmar, a cessation of hostilities, and humanitarian access. We also urge all parties to the conflict to stop misinformation and hate speech and promote social cohesion and respect for human rights.
