The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has warned that Myanmar suffers from extreme human rights violations, exacerbated by conflict and economic collapse, with significant civilian impacts. In 2024, more than 1,800 civilians were killed amid rising violence, and over 3.5 million people have been displaced. Corruption and crime have intensified, leading to severe humanitarian crises, while military conscription has forced many to flee the country.
Myanmar is experiencing one of the most severe human rights crises globally, as reported by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk. He described the prevailing conditions as a “litany of human suffering” during his address to the Human Rights Council. The ongoing conflict coupled with economic collapse has inflicted severe hardships on civilians, resulting in widespread displacement. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with more than 3.5 million people displaced and 15 million facing hunger, including two million at risk of famine.
The violence in Myanmar further escalated in 2024, marking the highest death toll among civilians since the military coup, with over 1,800 fatalities attributed to indiscriminate attacks. Military operations have repeatedly targeted schools and healthcare facilities, reflecting a blatant disregard for civilian life. Mr. Türk condemned brutal tactics used by the military, including executions and torture, noting that nearly 2,000 individuals have died while in custody.
The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by ongoing confrontations between the military junta and opposition forces. In the state of Rakhine, clashes have intensified, resulting in significant casualties among civilians, particularly within Rohingya communities. Despite border restrictions, tens of thousands of Rohingya fled to Bangladesh in 2024, with many attempting perilous sea journeys, leading to tragic losses at sea.
Corruption and crime have surged alongside Myanmar’s economic collapse, with the country emerging as the world’s largest nexus of organized crime. It remains the leading producer of opium and heavily involved in the manufacturing of synthetic drugs. Additionally, scam centers have proliferated, breeding human trafficking and subjecting victims to severe abuses, including forced labor.
Mr. Türk condemned the junta’s military conscription laws, which have led to arbitrary arrests and forced recruitment of young individuals. Many have fled the country to escape conscription, exposing themselves to further risks of trafficking and exploitation. He urged the international community to take stronger action, advocating for an arms embargo and targeted sanctions to protect Myanmar’s citizens and hold military leaders accountable for their actions.
The humanitarian crisis in Myanmar is dire, manifesting in extensive human rights violations and severe economic collapse. With millions displaced and at risk of starvation, the international community is urged to respond assertively to protect civilians and restore stability. Continuing violence, widespread corruption, and military conscription laws exacerbate the situation, underscoring the urgency of global intervention and accountability measures.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
