58^th regular session of the UN Human Rights Council
Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar
Oral statement delivered by Khin Ohmar
On behalf of Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA)

18 March 2025

Mr. President,

As the Special Rapporteur’s report rightly indicates, Myanmar peoples’ efforts for a future free from the military tyranny have advanced.

However, in response to this advancement, the junta has intensified violence and atrocities, particularly airstrikes – the only advantage it has over the people’s resistance – with tragic consequences.

In 2024, the junta launched over 2,500 airstrikes— which represents a significant escalation with over a 100% increase from 2023—killing over 1200 civilians including at least 372 children.

The junta’s airstrikes on 16 March targeting a Buddhist monastery in Northern Shan State, killing at least 10 civilians including 5 children, and on 14 March on local market in Mandalay Region killing 6 children and 21 other civilians are emblematic of the pattern of the junta’s brutality.

Amid escalating airstrikes, the already dire humanitarian crisis in Myanmar has been deepened by the abrupt and irresponsible cuts to humanitarian aid. With the dwindling aid, immediate action to end airstrikes is essential to prevent descent into famine and further human suffering.

Undoubtedly, the junta will further escalate its violence along with its reported plans for a sham election this or next year. Any international support for this desperate attempt by the junta to seize power in absence of any legitimacy or legal basis, would constitute aiding and abetting the junta’s crimes.

We urge the international community support the people’s relentless efforts to build an inclusive bottom-up federal democratic Myanmar based on the principles of human rights, accountability and justice.

Thank you.

Download the statement.