Today, the Human Rights Foundation of Monland (HURFOM) releases “Voice Up,” A Gendered Overview of the Human Rights Situation in Southeastern Burma. The report is the third in a series focusing on the gendered impacts of the attempted coup in Southeastern Burma throughout the year. The findings from June to August are further evidence of a worrying increase in targeted violence against women and children. The first update was published at the beginning of March 2024, and the second followed in June 2024.

In HURFOM target areas of Mon State, Karen State and the Tanintharyi region, 177 women have been killed since the coup, in addition to 370 wounded and 1,540 unlawfully arrested and detained. At least five women are still missing after being held in junta custody. Throughout the reporting period, at least nine women were killed, 26 injured, and 13 were arbitrarily arrested, in addition to 6 children killed and 33 who sustained injuries from the junta’s attacks.

HURFOM has been documenting a concerning rise in targeted attacks against women during a worsening humanitarian crisis. The human rights violations being perpetrated by the military junta include abductions and forcing women to act as porters. On July 13th, the Burma Army initiated an operation targeting villages in Tha Yet Chaung Township, Tenasserim Division. Four villagers, including a 16-year-old child, were arrested and used as human shields. As the regime expands its militarized operations, women and children are facing unprecedented levels of danger.

Despite the widespread trauma and challenges they are facing, women are continuing to break gender stereotypes in Burma by adopting and adapting to new leadership roles and participating in all areas of the People’s Movement, including social and political engagements. They are steadfast and unwavering in their commitment to a future where everyone’s rights are respected and communities can live in peace without fear.

HURFOM urges the international community to demonstrate the same courage women have consistently displayed throughout Burma’s history. They must take principled steps that respect and support the demands of the People’s Revolution.

These actions should include a global arms embargo, sanctions on aviation fuel, and the necessary referral of the situation in Burma to the International Criminal Court. The military has avoided being held accountable for too long, and it is time for them to face the consequences of their actions. Ensuring justice is essential to establishing a new precedent in the country, making it clear that no one is above the law.

Media Contact

Mi Seik Non, Assistant Coordinator Email: [email protected] Phone: +95 9 772 760 517

Nai Aue Mon, HURFOM Program Director Email: [email protected]
Signal: +66 86 167 9741

Download the press release 

Read the full report