Myanmar’s Military Intensifies Violence Against Civilians, UN Reports
A recent United Nations report reveals a significant escalation in killings and torture of civilians by Myanmar’s military since the February 2021 coup.
The UN report states that at least 5,350 civilians have been killed, with 2,414 deaths occurring in the latest reporting period from April 2023 to June 2024, marking a 50% increase from the previous period.
The military’s takeover led to widespread protests, which have since evolved into an armed rebellion. In response, the military has ramped up arrests, with nearly 27,400 individuals detained since the coup. Many of those arrested are believed to be held in military training centers, and reports indicate that children have been taken from their families as a punitive measure for political dissent.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk highlighted the dire situation, stating, “Myanmar is plumbing the depths of the human rights abyss.” The report indicates that at least 1,853 people have died in custody since the coup, including 88 minors. Many of these deaths are attributed to abusive treatment during interrogation and lack of adequate healthcare.
Detainees have reported severe mistreatment, including physical abuse with various implements and psychological torture involving threats from animals. The military has yet to respond to the allegations presented in the UN report.
The UN has called for the situation to be referred to the International Criminal Court. OHCHR called for all those responsible for gross human rights violations and serious violations of international humanitarian law in Myanmar to be held to account.
It should be mentioned that conflict in Myanmar has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Rohingya Muslims, with over 1.1 million displaced and forced to flee to neighboring countries, particularly Bangladesh, where they reside in dire conditions in UN camps.
