UN Rights Chief Calls for Arms Embargo on Myanmar Amid Humanitarian Crisis
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has urged the international community to impose an arms embargo and targeted sanctions on Myanmar, The Jurist reported. Speaking at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council, Türk described the human rights situation in Myanmar as dire, citing indiscriminate airstrikes, summary executions, and widespread famine.
The ongoing economic collapse has exacerbated corruption and crime, turning Myanmar into a hub for organized crime and human trafficking. Clashes between junta forces and opposition groups have displaced over 3.5 million people, leaving 15 million facing hunger, with two million at risk of famine.
The Rohingya minority remains particularly vulnerable, with many attempting perilous sea journeys to escape violence. As of January 31, 2025, over one million Rohingya refugees are in Bangladesh. Türk emphasized the need for accountability for Myanmar’s military leaders, following international arrest warrants issued for 22 officials, including Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing, on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity.
