UN Human Rights Council 42: Interactive Dialogue with the Fact-finding Mission on Myanmar
UK's Ambassador Julian Braithwaite told the Council that the Fact-Finding Mission on Myanmar has been crucial in documenting the appaling events since 2017.
The Human Rights Council takes place in Geneva.
The UK thanks the Fact Finding Mission for its continued commitment to documenting the appalling events that have taken place in Myanmar since 2017, in particular targeting the Rohingya Muslims.
The Mission’s reports paint a devastating picture of systematic human rights violations and a culture of consistent impunity in Myanmar. They have also shown how this is reinforced by economic structures that exist to protect and enrich those responsible.
From human rights violations in Rakhine, Shan and Kachin States; to the insidious nature of the Tatmadaw’s economic influence; or the horrific sexual violence perpetrated by the security forces; the need for genuine accountability has never been clearer. The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar has our full support as it becomes operational, and we encourage Myanmar to cooperate fully with its mandate.
Accountability for the atrocities documented by the Fact Finding Mission is crucial. A credible domestic process would be the most effective route to justice and reconciliation. We call on the Independent Commission of Enquiry to demonstrate its independence and credibility and we await its report. However, if domestic processes are not credible then we must look at all other options.
We believe that the situation in Myanmar continues to warrant the attention of the international community, both in the Human Rights Council and in the Security Council.
Mr. President, what can the Investigative Mechanism learn from the Fact Finding Mission to ensure it is as effective as possible?