UN officials have condemned the worsening human rights situations in Myanmar and South Sudan, highlighting severe civilian suffering due to conflict, economic collapse, and systemic violence. In Myanmar, thousands are displaced and face food insecurity, while in South Sudan, ongoing ethnic violence and corruption hinder progress. Calls for international intervention and accountability are critical in addressing these crises.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, reported on the severe human rights crisis in Myanmar, highlighting extensive suffering caused by ongoing conflict, economic collapse, and forced displacement. Speaking before the Human Rights Council, he remarked that the toll on civilians is severe, with military attacks leading to indiscriminate violence and resulting in over 1,800 civilian deaths in 2024 alone. Human rights violations such as torture and executions in custody have become increasingly common since the 2021 military coup.
The humanitarian situation remains dire, with over 3.5 million individuals displaced and 15 million facing food insecurity, including two million at risk of famine. Clashes in Rakhine State have intensified, affecting many civilians and forcing thousands of Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh, with a significant increase in deaths during the perilous journey.
Economic collapse has compounded the crisis, contributing to rampant corruption and a surge in organized crime, making Myanmar a leading producer of opium and synthetic drugs. Human trafficking and forced labor remain rife, particularly in cybercrime sectors where victims endure exploitation. The junta’s enforcement of military conscription laws has intensified arbitrary arrests, compelling young individuals to flee and exposing them to trafficking risks.
Mr. Türk called on the international community to respond assertively with an arms embargo and targeted sanctions aimed at protecting the people of Myanmar. Moreover, he emphasized the need for accountability processes through the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), stressing that military leaders must be held responsible for their actions.
In a separate session, the UN Commission on Human Rights reported on South Sudan, highlighting ongoing violations such as extrajudicial killings and forced child recruitment amid continued violence since independence. Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission, condemned the persistent failures of leadership, stating, “It is unconscionable that so many years after its independence, political leaders continue their violent contestations across the country.”
The situation remains critical in Tambura, characterized by ethnic violence reigniting from previous conflicts and facilitated by local political elites. The Commission also criticized South Sudan’s government for significant revenue losses amid rampant corruption, as essential services remain underfunded. Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández stated, “Financing essential services and rule of law institutions requires an end to the corruption.”
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan functions independently and has been in place since March 2016, committed to addressing the ongoing issues within the country. Although members are not compensated, they continue to seek justice amidst persistent violations, paving the way for potential reforms.
In summary, Myanmar faces an extensive human rights crisis exacerbated by conflict, economic collapse, and alarming humanitarian conditions. Similarly, South Sudan continues to experience systemic violations and leadership failures that undermine peace and justice. The international community is urged to take decisive action against these ongoing crises in both nations to protect vulnerable populations and hold violators accountable.
Original Source: news.un.org
