The UN Security Council has discussed the situation in Myanmar. Since the military coup in 2021, the country has been facing a deep political, social, economic and humanitarian crisis. Armed groups in different parts of the country have been fighting against military forces for many years. The escalation of violence has had a devastating impact on the civilian population. Human rights violations and large-scale internal displacement are taking place throughout the country.
In the Council, Switzerland condemned the escalation of the armed conflicts, which have intensified since the military takeover, and called for dialogue between all conflict parties in order to find a political solution. Independent reports indicating that war crimes and crimes against humanity may have been committed in Myanmar are a cause for concern. In New York, Switzerland appealed to the conflict parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law. It also stressed that all parties must allow rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access. The protection of civilians and humanitarian and medical personnel must be guaranteed. Furthermore, close cooperation between the UN and regional actors such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is essential for mediation and the provision of humanitarian aid.
In its statement, Switzerland stressed the need for the UN Security Council to play a more active role in building peace and security in Myanmar. It is therefore ready to support Council measures to reduce violence, protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access.
