The United Nations Human Rights Office has called on Myanmar’s military to immediately cease its attacks and allow humanitarian aid to reach communities affected by last month’s earthquake. The call comes amidst reports of military operations and blockades that have impeded relief efforts, critical for those in dire need.
The situation has been further exacerbated by Myanmar’s military reportedly conducting over 120 assaults on affected areas, with more than half of these occurring after a ceasefire should have taken effect on April 2nd. Reports indicate that junta-led airstrikes and artillery attacks have resulted in at least 72 civilian casualties between March 28 and April 8.
The UN has denounced these attacks and stressed the importance of the military adhering to international law, which mandates humanitarian access during conflicts. In regions like Sagaing, near the earthquake’s epicenter, military blockades have hindered relief workers from reaching some of the most affected communities, according to multiple aid and human rights organizations.
In a wider plea for unity during the Thingyan New Year festivities, the UN has also urged the military to declare a complete amnesty for the many detainees imprisoned since February 2021, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint. This appeal comes amid a grim backdrop where military actions continue to compound the dire humanitarian situation in Myanmar.
UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani underscored the ongoing suffering, stating, “Civilians are continuing to suffer in Myanmar as military operations persist, despite ceasefires declared after last month’s tragic earthquake.” UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk reiterated the obligation under international law for humanitarian workers to be granted unhindered access to those in need. Turk emphasized, “I urge a halt to all military operations, and for the focus to be on assisting those impacted by the quake” (OHCHR).
The obstruction of aid by Myanmar’s military highlights a recurring pattern of human rights violations, reminiscent of conflicts such as the one in Rakhine State. Here, prolonged fighting has displaced over 570,000 people. Such actions are a breach of fundamental international legal principles intended to protect civilians and ensure that crucial aid reaches those in need (JURIST).