UN asks Mynamar military to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms

New York, US, Jan 30 (EFE).- On the eve of the coup anniversary, the United Nations Sunday asked the Myanmar military rulers to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms.

In a statement, Secretary-General António Guterres said he stood in “solidarity with the people” of Myanmar and for a return to an inclusive, democratic society in the crisis-ridden country.

Guterres expressed concern over the multiple crises due to an intensification of violence, human rights violations, rising poverty, and indifference to worsening humanitarian conditions by the military regime.

“The multiple vulnerabilities of all people across Myanmar and its regional implications require an urgent response,” the statement said.

The statement said humanitarian access to people in need was “critically important for the United Nations and partners to continue to deliver on the ground.”

“Armed forces and all stakeholders must respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. The people of Myanmar need to see concrete results,” said the statement.

The Myanmar military overthrew the democratically elected government led by de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint on Feb.1 last year.

The military coup triggered unprecedented civilian protests across the country and the campaign for civil disobedience, led by government employees who refused to go to work.

Myanmar security forces responded brutally. They have allegedly killed at least 1,500 people since the shocking coup.

Last Friday, UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet reminded that around 12,000 remain arbitrarily detained for voicing their opposition.

Bachelet said nearly 9,000 remain in custody, and at least 290 have died in detention, many likely tortured.

Armed clashes have grown in frequency and intensity across the country. Persecution against ethnic and religious minorities, including against the Rohingyas, has also intensified.

Bachelet said it was time for an “urgent, renewed effort” to restore human rights and democracy and ensure that perpetrators of “systemic human rights violations and abuses are held to account.”

The Secretary-General’s Special Envoy Noeleen Heyzer has engaged all stakeholders to support a Myanmar-led process.

“She will continue to mobilize immediate action, including through strengthened cooperation between the UN and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address the desperate needs of the people of Myanmar”, said the UN chief’s statement.

“This is crucial for creating an enabling environment for inclusive dialogue”, added Guterres.

“Any solution needs to derive from engaging directly with and listening carefully to all those affected by the ongoing crisis. Their voices must be heard and amplified.” EFE

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