EU urges investigation into crackdown

 

In a statement, the EU said it is deeply concerned to hear reports of the use of force against protesters in Letpadan. 

"Freedom of expression and the right to legal and peaceful assembly are fundamental values of the European Union," it said.

  The EU started training the police following direct requests from both the government and the NLD, in order to bring the MPF in line with international standards and best practices. This was needed, and as events show, this need still remains. The fundamental purpose of the training is to increase the respect of human rights, stress the importance of negotiation and – only as a last resort – consider the use of proportional force. Any actions which go against these principles are of great concern to the EU. Noting that there has been progress, much remains to be done when it comes to police handling with approaches that honour human rights. 

"Whilst training can be given, the EU cannot make decisions on the ground. Over the last week, we have discussed recent events with the Minister of Home Affairs and the Myanmar Police Force, emphasising the need for negotiation, mutual understanding and compromise. We also stressed the importance of using trained, professional police officers in these situations, not parallel security structures which may be written into law, but lack legitimacy. It must be made clear that the EU does not train non-police forces and does not condone their use in police actions," it said.

It also urges all sides to act in a lawful manner and work towards compromise to reach a mutually acceptable solution. 

"In a country with a history such as Myanmar's, changing mindsets is needed, but takes time. Recent events confirm the necessity to continue the ongoing reform. The EU remains committed to supporting democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms in Myanmar," it concluded.