The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, condemned Myanmar’s worsening human rights crisis, highlighting the devastating impacts of conflict and economic collapse on civilians. With thousands displaced and millions facing hunger, he called for international action while also noting the ongoing human rights violations in South Sudan. The urgent need for accountability and support for victims is paramount in addressing these grave situations.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed grave concern over Myanmar’s human rights situation, characterizing it as “a litany of human suffering.” During a report to the Human Rights Council, he outlined the severe effects that ongoing conflicts and economic turmoil are having on civilians, many of whom have been displaced due to violence.
Mr. Türk emphasized that conflict, displacement, and economic collapse have contributed to widespread pain across Myanmar, highlighting that over 1,800 civilians lost their lives due to violence last year, marking the deadliest year since the military coup in 2021. He condemned military tactics including brutal acts, such as beheadings and torture, resulting in nearly 2,000 deaths in custody since the coup.
The humanitarian crisis in Myanmar has worsened, with over 3.5 million people displaced and 15 million facing food insecurity, including two million at risk of famine. Increased clashes in Rakhine state have led to a rise in civilian casualties, particularly among Rohingya communities, prompting tens of thousands to seek refuge in Bangladesh amid treacherous conditions.
The country is also grappling with economic collapse, which has exacerbated corruption and organized crime, marking Myanmar as a key producer of opium and synthetic drugs. Human trafficking, exacerbated by scam centers, has further complicated the humanitarian landscape as victims are exploited for cybercrime and subjected to severe abuse.
Moreover, the junta’s enforcement of military conscription laws has led to arbitrary arrests and forced recruitment, particularly affecting young individuals, pushing many to flee the country at the risk of exploitation. Mr. Türk called for increased international intervention, including an arms embargo and targeted sanctions, and stressed the need for accountability for military leaders responsible for atrocities.
In contrast, the Human Rights Commission’s report on South Sudan highlighted continued widespread violations despite years of independence and promises for peace. Extrajudicial killings and recruitment of children remain rampant, with political leaders failing to protect their citizens in the face of persistent violence.
The situation in Tambura reflects extreme ethnic violence, driven by political elites, as a new law authorizes extrajudicial executions. The Commission reported that despite generating significant revenue, essential public services remain underfunded while corruption persists, undermining justice and healthcare.
In summary, the reports from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights underscore the dire humanitarian and human rights crises in both Myanmar and South Sudan. The escalation of violence, economic collapse, and corruption present significant challenges to these regions. International intervention and accountability measures are critical in addressing the ongoing suffering and establishing sustained peace and justice for affected populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
