Tom Andrews, the UN’s Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, has called on governments to redouble efforts to protect civilians and support the country’s struggling population. Presenting a final report to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Andrews highlighted the severe challenges facing Myanmar.
“The current geopolitical climate is not conducive to advancing human rights in Myanmar and beyond. The United Nations and the principles it was founded on over 80 years ago are under severe strain,” Andrews stated.
Working as an independent expert appointed by the Council, Andrews, who is not a UN staff member, warned that diminishing international pressure and shrinking humanitarian aid funds could have devastating consequences for a population already enduring widespread violence and deprivation.
He added, “Actions by the international community to weaken the military junta’s capacity to continue its attacks on itself and the people have shown promise. Yet, alarmingly, there are signs that governments’ resolve is waning.”
Human Cost of the Coup
Myanmar has been embroiled in conflict since the military overthrew the civilian government in February 2021, detaining prominent leaders like President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup also triggered nationwide protests and armed resistance movements controlling significant portions of the country.
Violence against civilians has escalated dramatically. While nine airstrikes targeted civilian areas in 2021, this number surged to 1,140 last year. Over 100,000 homes have been burned, and the use of landmines by junta forces has sharply increased, forcing communities nationwide to live in constant fear.
Deepening Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict is fueling an escalating humanitarian emergency. According to the UN’s OCHA, approximately one-third of Myanmar’s population currently requires humanitarian assistance, with over 12 million people facing acute hunger.
More than 3.6 million people have been displaced across the country as fighting spreads, particularly in regions like Sagaing, Magway, Chin, Bago, and Kayin, where intense clashes and airstrikes continue to force people from their homes.
Civilian casualties are also on the rise. The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) reported that airstrikes attributed to the Myanmar armed forces killed at least 982 civilians in 2023, a 53% increase from the previous year, with children accounting for 287 of the deceased. In Rakhine State alone, airstrikes destroyed homes, medical facilities, and internally displaced persons camps, resulting in over 190 fatalities.
Calls for Stronger Action
Despite the deteriorating conditions, Andrews noted that international efforts to isolate the military leadership have yielded results. Sanctions targeting military-controlled businesses and arms supply networks have disrupted the junta’s ability to acquire weapons, while the regime struggles to gain international legitimacy.
He emphasized that the international community faces a critical choice. “Will it scale up measures that have proven effective and support the people of Myanmar who have shown extraordinary courage and resilience? Or will it retreat, abandoning the people of Myanmar precisely when they need support the most?” Andrews asked.
