ISTANBUL
The European Union (EU) called for an end to violence and accountability on Friday for atrocities committed since Feb. 1, 2021, to mark the fourth anniversary of Myanmar’s military coup.
The EU “strongly” condemned the actions of the Myanmar military, which have plunged the country into a severe political, economic and humanitarian crisis.
The bloc demanded the immediate release of all “arbitrarily” detained prisoners, including President U Win Myint and State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
It emphasized the need for accountability, highlighting the role of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.
It also expressed concern about the militarization and forced conscription of civilians, including the Rohingya and other minorities, by the military and armed groups.
The bloc urged all armed actors to allow independent humanitarian organizations full, safe and unhindered access to those in need. It reiterated its support for humanitarian and development activities aimed at protecting the population.
Call for preventive action
The EU also called for increased international preventive action, including a global arms embargo to halt the sale, transfer and diversion of arms and military equipment to Myanmar.
It said the EU has imposed restrictive measures on 106 individuals and 22 entities and stands ready to target transnational crime actors and those responsible for violence and human rights abuses.
The EU also encouraged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the UN, along with their special envoys for Myanmar, to facilitate an inclusive dialogue to resolve the crisis.
It reaffirmed support for ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus and called on the international community to back a peaceful solution. The plan includes building trust and confidence to engender a dialogue among all parties concerned end violence and alleviate the suffering of residents.
