New Report by the Human Rights Foundation of Monland, “Living in Fear,” Demands Urgent Response from the International Community

Today, the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) releases its latest report, “Living in Fear,” The Civilian Impact of the Junta’s Attacks Against Civilians in Southeastern Burma: January – June 2025. Our findings make clear the devastating and long-lasting impacts the junta’s attacks have had on local people in targeted areas of Mon State, Karen State, and the Tanintharyi Region.

Testimony and combined case studies from the ground indicate the junta has terrorized communities through the perpetration of widespread and systematic crimes against humanity and war crimes, as many told HURFOM that they are ‘living in fear.’. The lack of accountability has caused distress and prolonged trauma as justice is denied to survivors.

During the reporting period from January to June 2025, these challenges have continued to increase with 241 killed, 761 wounded, 1059 arrested, and 731 detained.  The military carries out both targeted and indiscriminate attacks against local populations. Since the attempted coup on 1 February 2021, the junta has deliberately sought out members of the opposition, including those from the Civil Disobedience Movement and the armed revolution.

Human rights defenders of all ages, backgrounds, and socio-economic statuses have also been targeted in widespread arrests as well as enforced disappearances. Young women and girls are being subjected to conflict-related sexual violence as soldiers once again evade punishment for their crimes.

Among the crimes documented in the report are arbitrary arrests, indiscriminate mortar shelling and artillery fire, the deployment of airstrikes, extortion and bribes, as well as several assaults used to terrorize communities. Since the illegal and unsuccessful coup, the inequalities faced by civilians have increased. Decades of military impunity and a lack of international condemnation or sustained intervention have allowed the regime to consistently avoid accountability. This has created additional barriers for marginalized groups, including ethnic women who face misogyny and are marginalized in their participation.

Furthermore, HURFOM reiterates our calls for urgent attention to the human rights situation in Burma, including an urgent referral to the International Criminal Court, targeted sanctions on aviation fuel, and a global arms embargo. These measures will send a strong signal to the regime that no one is above the rule of law.

Media Contact
Nai Aue Mon, HURFOM Program Director
Email: auemon@rehmonnya.org
Signal: +66 86 167 9741

Download the press release 

Download the report