UN High Commissioner Volker Türk condemned the severe human rights crisis in Myanmar, marked by high civilian casualties, a deepening humanitarian disaster, and rampant economic collapse. The report highlights dire conditions for Rohingya refugees and severe consequences of military conscription. Meanwhile, in South Sudan, human rights violations persist amid government failures and corruption, prompting calls for accountability.
Myanmar is experiencing one of the most severe human rights crises globally, according to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk. He characterized the situation as “a litany of human suffering,” emphasizing the profound impact of ongoing conflict and economic decline on civilians, many of whom are displaced.
Mr. Türk highlighted the increasing violence, revealing that over 1,800 civilians were killed in Myanmar in 2024, marking the highest death toll since the military coup in 2021. The frequency of violent attacks on schools, healthcare facilities, and places of worship has become a distressing trend.
As the humanitarian crisis intensifies, more than 3.5 million people are displaced, with 15 million facing hunger, including two million at risk of famine. In Rakhine state, clashes are exacerbating the suffering, particularly affecting the Rohingya community, which has seen tens of thousands fleeing to Bangladesh despite facing perilous journeys.
The country’s economic breakdown has fostered widespread corruption and crime, including the notorious rise of human trafficking operations. Myanmar continues to be a leading producer of opium and synthetic drugs, with many individuals coerced into illicit activities under duress.
Mr. Türk strongly criticized the junta’s approach to military conscription, which has resulted in arbitrary arrests and forced recruitment of young individuals. The fear of conscription has prompted many to flee the country, exposing them to trafficking and exploitation. “Given the humanitarian, political and economic impacts fuelling instability across the region, the international community must do more,” he insisted.
In South Sudan, the UN Commission on Human Rights presented a report detailing widespread human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and systematic sexual violence. Despite being independent for over ten years, leaders remain embroiled in violent conflicts that violate the rights of their citizens. “It is unconscionable that so many years after its independence, political leaders continue their violent contestations across the country and are abjectly failing the people of South Sudan,” stated Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission.
The report also illustrated extreme ethnic violence and the detrimental effects of the “Green Book” law, which authorizes extrajudicial killings. Furthermore, the Commission noted that the government, while generating significant revenue, remains unable to fund essential services adequately. “Financing essential services and rule of law institutions requires an end to corruption,” remarked Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández. “Without addressing this systemic looting, no peace agreement will ever translate into meaningful change,” he added.
The dire report on human rights in Myanmar emphasizes the catastrophic impact of conflict and economic downturn on civilians, urging for international intervention. Additionally, South Sudan continues to grapple with entrenched violence and governmental corruption that undermines progress and justice for its citizens. Both situations demand urgent global attention to alleviate suffering and restore human dignity.
Original Source: news.un.org
