UK announces new sanctions against Myanmar ahead of 1-year anniversary of coup
UK joins US and Canada in coordinated action against Myanmar military regime, targeting individuals responsible for undermining democracy and rule of law.
- new UK sanctions against military regime enforced in joint action with allies
- three individuals targeted for their involvement in undermining democracy and the rule of law
- Foreign Secretary condemns the military coup and calls for return to democracy
Announced on the eve of the 1-year anniversary of the military coup in Myanmar, the UK has designated new sanctions against 3 key members of the regime who have been instrumental in suppressing democracy and stifling opposition voices.
In coordination with the United States and Canada, new sanctions will be brought against:
- Dr Thida Oo, Myanmar Attorney General
- U Thein Soe, Chair of the Union Election Commission
- U Tin Oo, the Chair of the Anti-Corruption Commission
All 3 individuals are responsible for disregarding the Myanmar election results in November 2020 and supporting unsubstantiated claims of electoral fraud in an attempt to legitimise the coup.
The Attorney General and Anti-Corruption Commission Chair are also responsible for stifling pro-democracy groups across the country and overseeing the sentencing of democratically elected leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint, on trumped-up charges.
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said:
Over the last year, the military regime has attempted to terrorise the people of Myanmar into submission. Through fear and violence, they have created division and conflict.
The UK will always defend the right to freedom, democracy and the rule of law. With like-minded nations, we will hold to account this suppressive, brutal regime.
This latest round of sanctions will freeze the assets of these individuals and enforce a travel ban preventing them coming to the UK. They come on top of previous designations on dozens of individuals as well as businesses and business networks to limit the junta’s access to finance.
The designations demonstrate the UK’s commitment to target the junta’s personal, political and financial interests as they continue to perpetrate violence and refuse to engage with the democratic wishes of the people of Myanmar.
The UK is working with international partners to speak out for the Myanmar people, push for the full implementation of the ASEAN Five Point Consensus, stem the flow of arms to the regime and ensure the perpetrators of human rights violations are held accountable.
Since the coup, the UK has also provided £49.4 million to support those in need of humanitarian assistance in Myanmar, deliver health and education for the most vulnerable, and promote rights and freedoms. This funding is delivered through trusted aid agencies and partners, rather than through the junta.
Our humanitarian programmes have reached over 600,000 people, providing lifesaving water, sanitation and food.
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