Govt pledges to do more on human rights protection

During the second Myanmar-US Human Rights Dialogue, the government was urged to adopt consensus definitions of “prisoner of conscience” and “political prisoner”.  The US also urged Myanmar to allow the opening of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in the country as soon as possible, citing the positive role that can be played by the office in this regard.

OHCHR and Myanmar government are now negotiating for a mutually acceptable agreement on the opening of the office.  

The dialogue, taking place in Nay Pyi Taw during January 14-15, was to discuss and exchange best practices in the field of human rights of both parties, and also on ongoing efforts to further promote and protect human rights in Myanmar.

“The United States recognised the Myanmar government’s positive efforts to date,” said the statement released by the US Embassy in Myanmar.

Myanmar’s efforts to hold public consultations on the National Land Use Policy were recognised. Both sides discussed the need for inclusive consultation with all stakeholders to inform the development of the final policy and a national land law. The United States expressed its readiness to continue to support Myanmar in the development and elaboration of a policy and legal framework that gives increased land access and security of tenure to small holder farmers and recognises customary land tenure. 

The discussion took place shortly after farmers launched a series of protests against the land fencing of Myanmar Wanbao Copper Mining Co Ltd for its Letpaduangtuang copper mine project. The protest on December 22 left a woman dead.

Several farmers have also been on streets demanding for the return of their illegally-seized land or for reasonable compensation. Some have been jailed for the protests.

In the statement, the government also agreed that humanitarian agencies should have unhindered access to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The agreement came amid complaints that some agencies could not reach IDP camps in various areas, which worsen the living condition of the people who have no land to cultivate and lack daily necessities.

In light of the anti-Muslim sentiment, the government also agreed that there must be a comprehensive, transparent, and inclusive process of reconciliation in the state that prioritises unfettered humanitarian access to all vulnerable populations, protects human rights, ensures equal protection for all under domestic laws and international standards, and promotes economic and social development.

Myanmar also reaffirmed its obligations under the Geneva Conventions to protect civilian populations at all times and all places. Both governments discussed ways to work together to support security sector cooperation and reform.

“Myanmar and the United States agreed that respect for human rights, transparent, credible, and inclusive elections, democratic government, and equal protection for all under the law, and broad-based economic development are the bases for strong, stable, peaceful, and prosperous nations. On its part, the United States committed to continue working to end all remaining restrictions on economic, political and military cooperation as Myanmar continues its work to realise this shared vision,” the statement said.

“Myanmar and the United States discussed and agreed that adherence to international humanitarian law is essential to a strong professional military that maintains the trust of the people,” it added. 

The United States also expressed its willingness to help Myanmar build capacity on early warning and other response systems in order to anticipate and mitigate potential violence.

The dialogue also involved the ongoing efforts to amend the Constitution and to organise the national election.