Human Rights Council - 28th Regular Session
Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar
Australian Statement
16 March 2015
Australia would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for her efforts and acknowledge the Myanmar Government’s support for her work.
Many important human rights improvements have been made in Burma since the installation of civilian government. The Myanmar Government should be acknowledged for its leadership.
However, as noted by the Special Rapporteur, much more work needs to be done.
Australia supports the Special Rapporteur’s call for the Myanmar Government to address the situation in Rakhine State. We urge it to resolve the citizenship status of all residents in the country, including the Rohingya and white card holders.
Australia agrees with the Special Rapporteur that a ceasefire agreement with ethnic armed groups is essential to sustainable peace and encourages all sides to work toward this agreement, despite recent violence in Kokang.
Australia also supports the Special Rapporteur’s call for the Myanmar Government to reduce restrictions on freedom of expression, association and assembly, particularly given recent reports of violence, including by law enforcement authorities, directed at protesters in Letpadan.
Australia urges the Myanmar Government to ensure genuinely credible and inclusive elections are held this year, ensuring human rights and fundamental freedoms are upheld for all people in Burma.
Australia continues to encourage the Myanmar Government to move towards full implementation of the recommendations of the Special Rapporteur. Australia stands ready to support and assist.