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Mr President,
Norway would like to thank the Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) for its recent report on sexual and gender-based violence in Myanmar and the gendered impact of its ethnic conflicts.
Norway is deeply concerned about the additional information presented related to rape and sexual-based violence, and the grave violation of international human rights law that has taken place in Rakhine, Kachin and Shan States.
We have noted the conclusions drawn as a follow up to the 2018 Report and the additional recommendations made by the FFM. The allegations of abuse against civilians, including by members of the security forces, are extremely disturbing. There must be accountability for crimes committed.
Norway welcomes the signing of Joint Communique to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence with the UN last December. Fulfilling the obligations of the Communique will be challenging. Norway is ready to assist the Myanmar government in this work.
We also ask the Government to undertake the necessary legislative reform to protect people of all genders and ethnic groups from sexual and gender-based violence. Those responsible for criminal acts, including human rights violations, should be held accountable through credible national or international criminal justice mechanisms.
Norway thanks the FMM for the comprehensive report on the economic interests of the Myanmar military. To promote economic development and foreign investments, we encourage full transparency on all economic activities by all Myanmar companies, including MEHL (Myanmar Economic Holdings Limited) and MEC (Myanmar Economic Cooperation). This is in line with the commitments made by Myanmar under the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), including requirements to respect human rights throughout their operations.
Thank you.