In a significant move, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appointed former Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop as his special envoy for Myanmar, a position that has been vacant for 10 months as the conflict in the country has escalated into the worst violence since the military takeover in 2021. Bishop will be replacing Noeleen Heyzer, who left after 20 months at the end of her contract in June 2023, citing the devastating impact of the military takeover and ongoing violence in the country. The nationwide armed conflict in Myanmar began after the army ousted the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021, leading to widespread protests seeking a return to democratic rule.
As a result of the military’s suppression of protests, thousands of young people in Myanmar fled to jungles and mountains in remote border areas, where they formed alliances with ethnic guerrilla forces fighting for autonomy. Despite the military’s advantage in armaments and manpower, it has been unable to quell the resistance movement. Recent developments have seen the army being routed in northern Shan state, conceding territory in Rakhine state, and facing growing attacks in other areas of the country. The conflict has had a devastating impact on human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the basic needs of millions of people in Myanmar, with alarming spillover effects in the region, according to Assistant Secretary-General for political affairs Khaled Khiari.
In a statement announcing Bishop’s appointment, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric highlighted her extensive political, legal, management, and senior leadership experience. Bishop served as Australia’s foreign minister from 2013-2018 and held other Cabinet positions during her time in government. She was a member of the Australian Parliament from 1998 to 2019 and currently serves as the chancellor of the Australian National University. Her appointment comes at a critical time for Myanmar, as the conflict continues to escalate and the need for international intervention and mediation becomes increasingly urgent.
The appointment of Bishop as the U.N. special envoy for Myanmar signals the international community’s commitment to addressing the ongoing crisis in the country and finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. With her background in politics, international relations, and leadership, Bishop is well-equipped to engage with the various stakeholders involved in the Myanmar conflict and work towards finding a sustainable solution. Her role will involve diplomatic efforts, negotiations, and mediation to promote dialogue and de-escalation of the conflict, as well as addressing the humanitarian crisis resulting from the violence and displacement in the country.
As the new special envoy, Bishop will be tasked with engaging with key stakeholders in Myanmar, including the government, ethnic groups, civil society organizations, and regional partners, to facilitate dialogue and negotiation towards a peaceful resolution. Her appointment comes at a time when the conflict in Myanmar shows no signs of abating, with continued reports of violence, human rights abuses, and displacement of civilians. The international community will be closely watching Bishop’s efforts in her new role and supporting her in any way possible to help bring an end to the suffering and instability in Myanmar.
