human rights
BURMA/MYANMAR
Myanmar’s stalled democratic transition has given way to a massive human rights and humanitarian crisis. Since August 2017, the military has committed mass killings, sexual violence, and widespread arson against Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State that amount to crimes against humanity, forcing several hundred thousand to flee to Bangladesh. Armed conflict between the military and ethnic armed groups in northern Myanmar has intensified, causing mass displacement. Under Aung San Suu Kyi’s de facto leadership, prosecutions of journalists, activists, and critics have increased. The military remains the country’s most powerful institution, with control of key ministries and autonomy from civilian oversight.
- Human Rights Watch
The human rights situation deteriorated dramatically. Hundreds of thousands of Rohingya fled crimes against humanity in Rakhine State to neighbouring Bangladesh; those who remained continued to live under a system amounting to apartheid. The army committed extensive violations of international humanitarian law. Authorities continued to restrict humanitarian access across the country. Restrictions on freedom of expression remained. There was increased religious intolerance and anti-Muslim sentiment. Impunity persisted for past and ongoing human rights violations.
- Amnesty International