56th session of the Human Rights Council
18th June 2024
Item 2: Annual report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and reports of the Office of the High Commissioner and the Secretary-General
Joint statement on behalf of Association Ma'onah for Human Rights and Immigration and Geneva International Centre for Justice

Delivered by Ines Najeh / GICJ

Thank you.

We thank the High Commissioner for his report.

Ever since the coup in twenty-twenty one, grave violations of human rights have increased against the Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar.

The escalation of hostilities between the state military and the Arakan Army has intensified the humanitarian crisis. Forced recruitment into the military, along with indiscriminate attacks by ground, sea, and air, have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of civilians. This is a clear violation of
international humanitarian law.

As highlighted in the High Commissioner’s report, nearly 2.8 million people have been displaced both within Myanmar’sborders and across neighboring countries. Among religious and ethnic minorities impacted by the conflict, the situation of the Rohingya, who have already suffered discrimination and human rights violations for decades, is worsening as they are now targeted by both parties.

Association Ma’onah and Geneva International Centre for Justice call on the international community to increase humanitarian aid for all affected, including refugees in neighboring countries. Rohingya must be granted citizenship, full rights, and assured a safe return to their homeland.

Finally, we support the High Commissioner’s call to refer the current situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court by the Security Council, with the goal of holding military leaders accountable for committing war crimes.

Without accountability, there can be no lasting peace.
Thank you.