UN Human Rights Council 45: interactive dialogue with the head of the independent investigative mechanism for Myanmar
UK's International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French's statement during the Interactive Dialogue with the Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.
Thank you Madam President,
Thank you Mr Koumjian. The United Kingdom reiterates its support for the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar.
Accountability for human rights violations committed across Myanmar is a key step towards reconciliation and long-term stability. We have not yet seen enough progress from Myanmar to address the actions of the military in 2017, and conflict continues. Hundreds of homes have been burnt down this month in Rakhine, and civilians forced to flee. All sides must respect international law and protect civilians.
We urge Myanmar to cooperate with the IIMM as well as other international justice mechanisms, and to take steps to strengthen domestic accountability processes. This includes setting out a transparent and credible plan to implement the recommendations of the Rakhine Advisory Commission, the Independent Commission of Enquiry, and the provisional measures of the International Court of Justice.
We recognise the positive step that Myanmar’s Parliament recently took to amend the three-year limitation period on courts martial. The Tatmadaw must now respond to this in good faith, and take steps to improve the procedure’s transparency. This will help increase public trust in accountability measures and deter further crimes.
Mr Koumjian,
What actions can the international community take to further support the IIMM?