Interactive Dialogue with the the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar

Thank you Chair, 

Sweden fully aligns itself with the statement made by the European Union and warmly thank Special Rapporteur Lee for her update to this Council. 

We have seen an escalation of violence and continued human rights violations and abuses in Rakhine state, with serious consequences for all. We see continued atrocities and collective punishment targeting local populations and local leaders. The number of new IDPs is alarming.  

Sweden recalls the need for all parties to show restraint and underlines the responsibility of government authorities to respect, protect and fulfill international human rights law and to allow for humanitarian access to all those in need.

We call for genuine efforts to address the root causes of discrimination and persecution of the Rohingya population, including freedom of movement and citizenship. Any repatriation of Rohingya refugees must be in accordance with international refugee law .

The international community must act on accountability for crimes against humanity, war crimes and possible genocide, as reported by the FFM. The lack of tangible progress makes a referral of the situation to the International Criminal Court even more urgent. Furthermore, the adopted Independent Mechanism should now be set up without delay, and given full support by this council.

Mr./s chairperson. We see how journalist and editors of media are being silenced. Incitement to hatred continues to be spread online and offline. Ms Lee,  in this context, what would be your key recommendations relating to freedom of expression ahead of next year’s elections in Myanmar?

Thank you.