As the world recognises International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, BHRN calls on the international community to remember the religious minorities of Burma who are facing ongoing violence and oppression for their beliefs. Muslims, Christians, and other religious minorities have suffered in Burma for years in the country at the hands of the military and ultra- nationalists and these offenses continue to this day.

“While the world commemorates the victims of violence based on religion or belief, we must do all we can for those who are suffering still. In Burma, religious persecution against Muslims and Christians remains one of the most serious issues in the country. The illegitimate military junta has maintained its attacks on minorities since seizing power and there is legitimate fear this will only get worse as they maintain control. The best way we can honour the victims of the past is to prevent others from being victimized in the future,” said BHRN’s Executive Director Kyaw Win.

Burma has been the site of ongoing violence against religious and ethnic minorities for decades. Christians in Kachin, Karen, Karennie and Chin states have all faced serious persecution and violence by the armed forces, and Christians across the country have faced restrictions on their freedom to practice their religion. Similarly, Muslims throughout the country have faced horrific violence, including the genocide of the Rohingya, as well as oppressive restrictions on their ability to practice their religion freely.

The observation of International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief falls just a few days short of the anniversary of the Rohingya genocide. While reflecting on these two important dates BHRN calls on the world to act to prevent any further suffering in Burma. Sanctions on all business interests of the military must be imposed and a global arms embargo must be enforced against the junta. The international community must work with Burma’s legitimate leaders in the National Unity Government to create a plan that will ensure the rights of all minorities and use every tool available to return the NUG to power to implement it.

Organisation’s Background
BHRN is based in London and operates across Burma/Myanmar working for human rights, minority rights and religious freedom in the country. BHRN has played a crucial role in advocating for human rights and religious freedom with politicians and world leaders.

Media Enquiries
Please contact:

Kyaw Win
Executive Director
Burma Human Rights Network (BHRN)
E: [email protected]
T: +44(0) 740 345 2378

View the original.