HRC54: Statement during interactive dialogue with the Independent Investigative Mechanisms on the situation of human rights

Item 2: ID on report of Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar

Organisation: Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW)

Speaker:Claire Denman

Thank you, Mr. President.

CSW welcomes thereport of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar and thanks the Mechanism for its continued work.

We share the grave concerns that the Myanmar military are increasingly committing horrific acts of extreme violence against civilians. Those living in ethnic minority areas are targeted with particular intensity.

Free Burma Rangers reports that on 10 May the Burma Army attacked Nyaw Bin Tha Village, Karen (Kayin) State, killing 22 people – seven of whom were children under 10 years of age. Most had been burned alive and some bore signs of torture. One villager was killed by full body impalement.

Such atrocity crimes are continuing even as I speak today. The burning of young children shows just how brazen the military are. We once again urge member states to coordinate the enforcement of a global arms embargo and the closing of any loopholes to evade these measures.

Over1.9 million people are internally displaced and one third of Myanmar’s population is in urgent need of aid, yet assistance from the international community is severely underfunded. According tothe OCHA, the 2023 Myanmar Humanitarian Response Plan was only 25.4% funded as of 23^rd August.

The military junta has blocked the delivery of life-saving assistance in some regions. We call upon member states to increase their funding to support those in greatest need and work with local aid organisations to provide lifesaving support.

Thank you.