The Network for Human Rights Documentation – Burma Calls for ASEAN to Uphold and Protect Human Rights in New Briefing Paper Ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit

Today, the Network for Human Rights Documentation-Burma releases a new briefing paper, “ASEAN Must Protect, Not Neglect Human Rights in Burma,” ahead of the upcoming 46th ASEAN Summit, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from May 26 to 27, 2025. ND-Burma members call upon ASEAN to act with integrity and a commitment to protect and promote human rights in Burma, rather than risk legitimizing the terrorist junta through their ongoing engagements.

The upcoming Summit will bring together ASEAN members and dialogue partners. Discussions on Burma will focus on the humanitarian situation and trade. In response to the numerous challenges on the ground, ASEAN must be decisive and united by choosing to stand with the many people and stakeholders of the pro-democracy revolution. The actions and behaviour of the military junta have made it evident that they are not committed to peace, nor to any end of the ongoing hostilities that have killed and wounded thousands.

Since the attempted coup over four years ago, ASEAN has failed to hold the military accountable for its volatile actions and violations of human rights. They must make it clear that these acts of terror will not be tolerated. The Five-Point Consensus has not been effectively implemented, demonstrating the regime’s lack of adherence to international norms and principles. Meanwhile, across the country, particularly in ethnic areas, aerial and ground attacks are relentless, putting innocent civilians at increased risk of injury or death in a junta-fueled crisis that has plunged thousands into poverty and displaced millions.

Further, ND-Burma members urge ASEAN leaders to address the junta’s ongoing deliberate disregard of human life, denounce the sham election plans, provide humanitarian assistance through locally led organizations, prioritize the immediate protection oflocas by advocating for and supporting international accountability mechanisms, and recognize the exceptional bravery and commitment of the leaders of the People’s Movement in Burma by choosing to stand with them.

For more information:

Name: Nai Aue Mon

Signal: +66 86 1679 741

Name: San Htoi

Signal: +66 64 195 6721

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