Comment By UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk On Unremitting Violence In Myanmar

Geneva, 2 May 2025

Amidst so many crises around the world, the unbearable suffering of the people in Myanmar cannot be forgotten.

The unremitting violence inflicted on civilians, despite a ceasefire nominally declared in the wake of the devastating earthquake on 28 March, underscores the need for the parties to commit to - and implement - a genuine and permanent nationwide halt to hostilities and return to civilian rule.

It is imperative that the military immediately stop all attacks on civilians and civilian objects.

Since the earthquake and as of 29 April, the military has reportedly launched at least 243 attacks, including 171 air strikes, with over 200 civilians reportedly killed. The vast majority of attacks happened after 2 April when the Myanmar military and the National Unity Government announced unilateral ceasefires. The military subsequently renewed its largely unobserved ceasefire which then expired on 30 April.

The relentless attacks affect a population already heavily beleaguered and exhausted by years of conflict. This is compounded by the recent terrible earthquake that left 3,800 people dead and 6.3 million in urgent need of support, adding to the nearly 20 million already relying on assistance. International law is clear that humanitarian aid must be able to reach those in need without impediment.

People in Myanmar need food, water, and shelter. They need - and must have - peace and protection. This is the time to put people first, to prioritise their human rights and humanitarian needs, and to achieve a peaceful resolution to this crisis. Instead of further futile investment in military force, the focus must be on the restoration of democracy and the rule of law in Myanmar.

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