The United Nations is considering a resolution on Myanmar that calls for renewed peace efforts, condemns attacks on civilians by the military, and urges a halt to illicit arms transfers. The draft resolution expresses concern over the increased violence in Myanmar, which is currently embroiled in a civil war between the military-led regime and resistance forces. It also calls for safe and unhindered humanitarian access, expressing grave concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation and rising food insecurity in the country.
The military in Myanmar seized power on February 1, 2021, by ousting the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. This led to massive public opposition, which has transformed into armed resistance and civil war. The military regime is now facing significant challenges from ethnic minority militias and people’s defense forces who support the main opposition and have captured large territories in recent months. The draft resolution emphasizes the importance of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in resolving the crisis and calls for an immediate end to violence through dialogue facilitated by an ASEAN envoy.
The resolution also urges the ASEAN special envoy to Myanmar and the new UN special envoy to engage all relevant stakeholders for a peaceful and inclusive solution to the crisis in Myanmar. Security Council negotiations on the draft resolution are expected to be difficult, as the previous resolution on Myanmar faced opposition from Russia, China, and India – all of whom have ties to the Myanmar regime. The proposed resolution demands the full implementation of the previous resolution, which called for an end to violence, release of arbitrarily detained prisoners, including Suu Kyi, and restoration of democratic institutions.
Despite the obstacles, the draft resolution emphasizes the need for dialogue and reconciliation among opposing parties in Myanmar and urges all sides to respect human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. The resolution aims to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the country and prevent further discrimination, ethnically motivated violence, and conflict-related sexual violence. It underscores the importance of international cooperation in finding a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Myanmar and highlights the role of organizations like ASEAN and the UN.
The proposed resolution reflects international concern over the deteriorating situation in Myanmar and the need for urgent action to address the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the country. It calls for a coordinated effort by the international community to facilitate dialogue and peace negotiations among the contending parties in Myanmar. The resolution aims to put pressure on the military regime to respect human rights, release political prisoners, and restore democratic processes in the country, while also addressing the immediate needs of the civilian population who are facing food insecurity and hunger as a result of the conflict.
