The statement was delivered by Ambassador of Denmark, Martin Hermann, following a briefing by the UN Special Envoy on Myanmar Noeleen Heyzer.
I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic countries - Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Denmark.
The Nordic countries are firm supporters of the UN Special Envoy’s mandate and tireless efforts to find durable, peaceful and inclusive dialogue-driven solutions to the escalating crisis in Myanmar. While we focus on other highly concerning conflicts, the world must not forget what is going on in Myanmar.
We are witnessing a multifaceted conflict and cannot underestimate the scale of the multiple humanitarian tragedies that are unfolding. Therefore, we thank the Secretary General for convening this informal meeting.
We continue to condemn the military coup in the strongest possible terms and encourage all parties to engage in inclusive and constructive political dialogue.
The Nordic countries condemn the use of lethal force and violence against peaceful demonstrators, as well as members of civil society, women, youth, children and others.
We are deeply concerned by reports of the use of sexual and gender-based violence.
We call on all parties to refrain from violence in any form. Perpetrators must be held accountable.
We are deeply concerned by the Myanmar military's reported plans to resume executions. The death penalty is a blatant violation to the right to life, liberty and security of persons, as per Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
We are also deeply concerned about the severe humanitarian needs, and the large areas, which remain inaccessible to humanitarian actors. We continue to call on the military to ensure full, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access to all people in need.
We also call on the Myanmar military to fully respect and protect all people of Myanmar and their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the Rohingya Muslims and other ethnic and persons belonging to religious minorities. The imposed state of emergency must end, civilian rule must be restored and all those arbitrarily detained must be released.
The Nordic countries continue to support ASEAN in their efforts to find regional solutions to the crisis in Myanmar. We stress the importance of effectively implementing ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus without further delay. We also support the UN’s work in Myanmar and encourage the UN and ASEAN to continue and intensify coordination. Alongside ASEAN, we call on greater alignment of UN Special Envoy and other UN agencies to “deliver as one” in Myanmar.
The Nordic countries stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar and join their aspirations for a democratic, stable and peaceful Myanmar.