Widespread and systemic deprivation of economic, social, political and cultural rights continues apace in Myanmar. I am writing to express my support for the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry for Burma and to encourage the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), meeting in Phnom Penh on 20 September, to adopt a resolution that recognises these fundamental human rights concerns and calls for the State Peace and Development Council to release more than 2000 Burmese political prisoners.
The Charter of ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a signatory, calls upon states to observe "principles of democracy, the rule of law and… respect for the principles and protections of human rights and fundamental freedoms" but to those living in the worst effected Kachin and Shan states, the suggestion that their government holds such convictions dear is ludicrous. There remain grave concerns that war crimes and crimes against humanity continue to be perpetrated. This includes extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, arbitrary arrest and detention and internal displacement. Ethnic minorities, the displaced, women and children in particular are vulnerable to such abuses.
As a result 16 governments have pushed the UN to form a commission of inquiry, none of which are ASEAN member states. Cambodia and the other ASEAN states have remained relatively silent in the face of the breaches of international law and violations of its very Charter’s purpose. As a region we need to be firm and resolute in calling for the immediate cessation of hostilities in Myanmar instead of relying oncalls for solutionstoemanate from western countries.
This is a key moment in Myanmar's history. There are real opportunities for positive and meaningful developments to improve the human rights situation and bring about a genuine transition to democracy. It is necessary for both the Burmese and ASEAN legitimacy for the AIPA to intensify its efforts and advance justice, democracy and freedom in Myanmar by immediately addressing such longstanding social, economic and development challenges.
By
Son Chhay
Member of Parliament for Phnom Penh
Deputy President, ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus (AIPMC)
Chief Whip, Sam Rainsy Party
Tel 012 858857
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