As Chair of the Rakhine Advisory Commission, I wish to express my deep concern over the recent violence in northern Rakhine State, which is plunging the State into renewed instability and creating new displacement. All communities must renounce violence and I urge the security services to act in full compliance with the rule of law.

The Advisory Commission is mandated to provide recommendations to the Myanmar government on measures for resolving the complex challenges facing Rakhine State, which are holding back the State’s economic and social development. Recent events have reinforced the urgency of tackling these challenges in order to find viable solutions in the interest of all the people of the State.

Violence will not create an environment conducive to peace and inter-communal cohesion, which is a prerequisite for economic progress and prosperity. The interest of the people of Rakhine is best served through inclusive dialogue, by the promotion of mutual respect and cooperation and by providing local communities with opportunities to live their lives in dignity and to achieve their legitimate aspirations.
The Commission continues its work. We are grateful for the support we have already received and we encourage all communities to engage constructively with the Commission.

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