UN Human Rights Chief Expresses Concern over Violence in Myanmar
The United Nations’ human rights chief expressed deep concern over the resurgence of violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine state, warning of potential atrocities.
Background of the Conflict
Clashes in Rakhine escalated after the Arakan Army (AA) attacked security forces, breaking a ceasefire that had been in place since February 1, 2021.
Current Situation
The recent violence in Buthidaung township has led to the displacement of tens of thousands of civilians, mainly Rohingya, raising serious human rights concerns.
Appeal for Peace
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, called for a halt in fighting, protection of civilians, and unrestricted humanitarian access. He urged both the Myanmar military and the AA to abide by international law.
Call for International Support
Turk also appealed to neighboring Bangladesh to provide assistance to vulnerable individuals seeking safety amid the conflict.
Roots of the Conflict
The AA, like other ethnic-minority groups in Myanmar, has been fighting for autonomy and resource control since the country’s independence in 1948.
Humanitarian Crisis
Since November, fighting has spread across Rakhine state, resulting in numerous casualties and displacements, with over 300,000 people affected.
Previous Incidents
Previous clashes between the AA and the military in 2019 and the military’s crackdown on the Rohingya minority in 2017 have further exacerbated the situation in the region.