The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) had condemned the killing of 35 people, including four children and two humanitarian workers in Myanmar’s Kayah State on December 25. In a strong statement issued by the Ambassadors of the member states, the UNSC had called for accountability and the immediate end of all violence in Myanmar.
The member states emphasised that respect for human rights is a must for any society.
The UNSC had also said that the protection of civilians, primarily children and humanitarian workers, must be treated on a priority basis during times of conflict, in accordance with international humanitarian law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Myanmar is a signatory.
As per local media reports, 35 people including four children were killed, in Kayah province during a clash with the military. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) statement adds, “UNSC strongly condemns the killing of at least 35 people in Myanmar and reaffirms the support by the United Nations for the people of Myanmar and the country’s democratic transition along with their strong commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity and unity of Myanmar.”
Other international organisations and countries across the world had also condemned the killings saying that the military leadership must take stern action against the culprits as killing and burning of humanitarian workers and children is in the category of heinous crime.
Myanmar, a country located strategically in Southeast Asia, is witnessing unrest and civil-war like situation since a military takeover of the country in February that had sparked nationwide protests which had been crushed by the military.
As per a recent report by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), the military takeover had resulted in violent protests, widespread anger and the coming up of People’s Defense Forces to fight against the military which had led to the killing of more than 1,200 people and over 11,000 people have been arrested as the security forces have tried to curb the protests in the country.