The European Union takes note of the order of the International Court of Justice on the request for the indication of provisional measures in the case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar for violating its obligations under the Genocide Convention. The Gambia submitted the lawsuit on behalf of the Organisation of the Islamic States (OIC). The parties, and notably Myanmar must now fully implement the provisional measures of the Court’s order, which will be given to the United Nations Security Council. The implementation of the provisional measures is compulsory under international law.

Accountability for gross violations of human rights should always be a key principle governing the action of national governments. Myanmar must ensure accountability for the gross violations of human rights perpetrated by some of its military and security forces. It must also ensure the protection of all civilians and safe and unfettered humanitarian access. The European Union notes that the Court indicated provisional measures that go largely in the same direction.

Myanmar must address the root causes of its conflicts, in Rakhine State, but also in Kachin and Shan States. Accountability of perpetrators of human rights violations and humanitarian law is a necessary part of this process. Myanmar must also create conditions for and facilitate a voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of the Rohingya to Myanmar.

The EU will also continue to closely follow the investigation by the International Criminal Court’s Prosecutor for the alleged crimes falling within the ICC’s jurisdiction. The EU will pursue its efforts in all relevant UN fora.

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