The 53rd Session of the Human Rights Council
19 June - 10 July 2023
Panel discussion on human rights violations against Rohingya and other minorities in Myanmar
Statement of Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration and Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ)
Delivered by Aimara Pujadas / GICJ
Thank you President
We stand before you today to advocate for the protection of the Rohingya people and to call for immediate international action and a robust humanitarian response to this crisis that has progressively worsened over the last 3 years.
The Rohingya have endured unspeakable atrocities and grave human rights violations solely based on their ethnic and religious identity. The international community cannot turn a blind eye to this situation.
Several calls have been made to foster dialogue; to encourage legal, constitutional and policy reforms seeking to provide greater space for diversity, equality, sustainable peace and reconciliation.
Thousands have been killed, villages have been razed, and countless individuals have suffered sexual violence and torture. This ongoing persecution has forced over a million Rohingya to flee, seeking safety and refuge in neighbouring countries, while also increasing socioeconomic and political pressure on these states due to the lack of resources to respond in an adequate manner.
Ma´onah and Geneva International Centre for Justice firstly, urge the international community to take all the necessary collective measures to immediately cease the violence and discrimination against the Rohingya. The authorities in Myanmar must recognize the Rohingya citizenship, grant them full rights, and ensure their safe return to their homeland, with guarantees of safety, justice, and restitution.
We also demand a heightened humanitarian response, which is urgently required to address the immediate needs of Rohingya refugees.
Lastly, we encourage the establishment of an independent and impartial international investigation. Justice must prevail, and the perpetrators must face the consequences of their actions. Without accountability, there can be no true healing or lasting peace.
