A coalition of Western and Asian nations has issued a joint statement condemning the escalating human rights abuses and humanitarian disaster in Myanmar, calling for urgent international action to address the crisis. The statement, endorsed by the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, Switzerland, Timor-Leste, and the United Kingdom, highlights the widespread atrocities committed by Myanmar’s military regime and its devastating impact on civilians across the country.
Worsening Violence and Humanitarian Collapse
The statement expressed deep concern about the escalating violence and rising tensions between communities in Myanmar, which have only worsened since the military coup of 2021. The international coalition condemned the regime’s violent repression of the civilian population, citing credible reports of systematic human rights violations. These include the forced recruitment and abduction of children and ethnic minorities, indiscriminate aerial bombardments that target civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as widespread sexual violence, arson, and attacks on humanitarian workers and facilities.
“The military regime’s actions are a gross violation of international humanitarian law,” the statement reads. “There have been reports of dismemberment and burning of civilians, making it clear that Myanmar’s military continues to disregard basic human rights and decency.”
The situation is particularly dire in Rakhine State, where violence has intensified, especially against the Rohingya, a Muslim minority group that has long faced persecution. The statement highlights disturbing reports of ethnic violence and violations of international law targeting the Rohingya population, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Displacement, Food Insecurity, and Disease
The humanitarian needs in Myanmar have reached catastrophic levels, with more than 3.5 million people displaced by the ongoing conflict. Many have fled to neighboring countries, while those who remain within Myanmar face the threat of violence and starvation. Currently, over 15 million people in Myanmar are experiencing acute food insecurity, and the outbreak of diseases such as cholera is on the rise.
One of the most pressing concerns outlined in the joint statement is the regime’s ongoing denial of humanitarian access. With the military in control of key areas, aid organizations have been severely restricted in their efforts to provide life-saving assistance. The lack of safe spaces for civilians and the ongoing attacks on those trying to flee the violence are leaving millions trapped in dangerous conditions.
“We call on all armed actors in Myanmar, including the military regime, to de-escalate the violence and allow unimpeded humanitarian access,” the statement urges. “Only through the provision of safe aid can we help alleviate the suffering of those who need it most — women, children, ethnic minorities, and religious groups.”
The Rohingya Crisis: A Key Element of Any Resolution
The statement also underscores the importance of addressing the underlying discrimination and violence faced by the Rohingya people, whose plight continues to be a central issue in Myanmar’s crisis. According to the coalition, any lasting political solution must include the recognition of the Rohingya’s rights and the cessation of brutal treatment by the military.
“As long as the Rohingya are persecuted and denied their basic rights, there will be no peace in Myanmar,” the joint statement warns. “Addressing this issue is not optional but essential to any comprehensive solution to the crisis.”
Calls for International Action and Support for ASEAN
The coalition has renewed its call for the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2669 (2022), which calls for an immediate end to all forms of violence in Myanmar, the de-escalation of tensions, and the release of all prisoners detained arbitrarily by the military. It also stresses the importance of continued international pressure to ensure accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses.
The group voiced strong support for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its central role in resolving the crisis. ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus — which calls for an immediate cessation of violence, humanitarian access, dialogue, the release of prisoners, and a return to democracy — continues to serve as the framework for a peaceful solution to Myanmar’s ongoing turmoil. Additionally, the statement acknowledges the United Nations and the Special Envoy on Myanmar, whose efforts to mediate peace and facilitate dialogue remain essential.
A Call for Inclusive Dialogue
The international coalition also reasserted its commitment to supporting genuine, constructive, and inclusive dialogue aimed at bringing Myanmar back to a path of peace and democracy. The statement emphasized that Myanmar’s future must involve inclusive democracy that respects the rights of all ethnic and religious communities.
“Peace and stability in Myanmar can only be achieved through dialogue, where all groups are given a voice and a seat at the table,” the statement concludes. “We will continue to work with all partners to ensure that the people of Myanmar have a future free from violence and oppression.”
A Global Effort to End the Crisis
The joint statement, while condemning the Myanmar regime’s actions, also represents an ongoing commitment from the international community to take action on behalf of those suffering within the country. The combined efforts of the countries and organizations involved are critical to ensuring that Myanmar’s human rights crisis does not fall off the international agenda.
As the situation in Myanmar remains dire, the call for accountability, protection of civilians, and political change grows louder. The international community is sending a unified message to the Myanmar military — the world is watching, and Myanmar’s citizens will not be forgotten.