Myanmar is in ‘agonising pain’: UN Human Rights Chief raises alarm over illegitimate military regime

Human rights are significant for citizens of any country to lead a happy and peaceful life. Human rights protect the dignity of every individual and provide them a set of rights to express themselves freely. Human rights help to prevent injustice, discrimination, and abuse, leading to a safer society. But not every country is successful in providing and protecting the human rights of its citizens. On Tuesday, top human rights officials of the UN stated that Myanmar is suffering a lot under illegitimate military rule. The military government uses terrible war tactics and commits brutal crimes, leading to immense pain for the citizens.

UN Human Rights Chief Emphasises Myanmar Crisis

Addressing the Human Rights Council in Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, highlighted that the crisis is “emblematic of a very long legacy of military dominance, the stifling of dissent and division.” The official also added that the same situation is against the minority Muslim Rohingya and other communities in Rakhine province. The official stated, “We are hearing stories of brutal war tactics, such as beheadings. Midnight drone attacks. The burning of homes while people are sleeping. People being shot at as they save their lives.” Tatmadaw, the name of Myanmar’s military, in February 2021 overthrew the democratically elected government and arrested major political leaders.

Increasing extreme measures in Myanmar

Intense fighting has been reported between junta forces and ethnic armed groups and those against the coup, leading thousands to flee and worsening the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. Mr. Volker Turk said, “The military has lost control over a significant amount of territory. So it is restoring to extreme measures. Forced conscription. Indiscriminate bombardment of villages and towns. Brutal atrocity crimes.”

Mr. Turk has stated that at least 5,280 civilians, including 1,022 women and 667 children, have been killed at the hands of the military since February 2021. At least 26,865 individuals have been arrested, and 20,592 people remain in detention. Around three million people were internally displaced by these conflicts. Many of the severe consequences of Myanmar’s military denial of humanitarian access remain underreported.

Despite this, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, highlighted a strong sense of hope. A new generation of young people from all ethnic groups is leading efforts to build an inclusive future for Myanmar. The international community is witnessing the revolution of citizens against decades of violence and oppression. In areas outside the military control, new governance structures have been established, supported by ethnic armed groups and activists providing education, food, shelter, and healthcare to thousands of people.