An Argentinian court announced on Thursday the issuance of international arrest warrants targeting 22 Burmese military officials and three civilians for their alleged roles in the genocide against the Rohingya community. The senior military figures implicated in this decision include Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing, Deputy Commander-in-Chief Soe Win, and the former Western Command head Maung Maung Soe. They face serious allegations of genocide and other crimes under Argentina’s penal code, encompassing aggravated murder, sexual abuse, and torture.
This judicial action in Argentina forms a part of the country’s investigation into crimes against humanity perpetrated in Myanmar, applying the principle of universal jurisdiction. Such jurisdiction allows Argentinian courts to pursue grave international crimes irrespective of their location. Initiated in 2019 by the Burmese Rohingya Organisation UK (BROUK) and its president, Tun Khin, the case has seen six female Rohingya survivors contribute distressing testimonies on the violence experienced during Myanmar military operations in Rakhine State in 2017.
The Argentinian court’s decision follows a request by International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Khan for an arrest warrant against Min Aung Hlaing. The order from Argentina prompts an automatic request to INTERPOL to issue red notices across its 196 member states, which could lead to the accused’s detention and extradition.
The political scenario in Myanmar may hinder compliance with these warrants. Since the military coup in February 2021, the regime has intensified violent repression, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread detentions. As armed conflicts re-escalate in Rakhine State, international groups warn of worsening conditions for the Rohingya.
This development coincides with ongoing legal actions against Myanmar’s military, including proceedings at both the ICC and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the ICJ continues to progress, with recent filings strengthening allegations of genocide.
BROUK has endorsed the court’s decision, citing its significance for the Rohingya and other communities enduring military oppression in Myanmar. Tun Khin remarked, “This is a historic step towards justice for Rohingya and everyone in Burma suffering under the Burmese military … This courageous decision sends a clear signal that no one is above the law. These perpetrators will eventually have to stand trial for the unspeakable suffering they have inflicted.”
For further information, refer to the JURIST’s detailed report.