Atrocities of Human Rights Violations in Myanmar Demand Accountability

Like many, I found myself overwhelmed by daily life amid the chaos of remote work and COVID-19. However, one morning, while scrolling through my news app, I stumbled upon a headline that jolted me awake: “She was shot dead, her body dug up, and her grave filled with cement. But her fight is not over.” The story of a young girl named Maya, a courageous 19-year-old who was shot in the head by the military, ignited a fire of anger and horror within me. I couldn’t help but think, this could have been my daughter—fiery and unafraid to speak out against injustice.

Maya’s tragic death occurred on a day when 38 others were killed during protests against a military regime unwilling to take accountability for its brutal actions. Myanmar, often referred to as Burma, is a small Southeast Asian country that is crying out for global attention. The people there are fighting tirelessly for the democracy that many of us take for granted in the United States.

Before the coup in February, Myanmar had just begun to emerge from 49 years of military rule. On February 1, the military detained the democratically elected president, and within days, they banned key social media platforms, crippling communication among protestors. Despite the blackout, thousands flooded the streets to demand their rights. Tragically, reports indicate that over 400 individuals, including children, have been killed since the military takeover, revealing the extent of the violence being inflicted on innocent civilians.

The situation is dire and deeply troubling. Eyewitness accounts and social media threads reveal scenes of unimaginable brutality—homes set ablaze with people inside, and families torn apart as loved ones go missing. The military’s tactics include firing rubber bullets and tear gas at crowds, escalating to live ammunition when those methods fall short. This environment of fear and oppression has returned Myanmar to a dark chapter in its history.

In response to these atrocities, President Biden took ten days to address the situation, announcing a significant financial sanction against the Myanmar military. He emphasized that the military must relinquish power and imposed further controls on exports. In a show of solidarity, the U.S. is freezing assets that would benefit the Burmese government while continuing to support healthcare and civil society initiatives that directly aid the people.

The United Nations has also condemned the military’s actions. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate end to the repression and highlighted the urgent need for accountability. Myanmar is in turmoil, echoing sentiments of fear and uncertainty that can resonate with anyone who values democracy and human rights.

As Myanmar grapples with these challenges, we are reminded of our responsibility to stand up against human rights violations. We must amplify our voices, ensuring that the military is held accountable for its actions. The world cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of the Burmese people who seek the very freedoms we cherish in our own lives.

For more insights into the ongoing situation in Myanmar, check out this related blog post here. Resources like Make a Mom offer invaluable information on fertility, while March of Dimes provides great guidance on pregnancy and fertility treatments.

Summary

Human rights violations in Myanmar have reached catastrophic levels, with the military committing acts of violence against unarmed civilians. The international community must take action to hold the government accountable for its actions and support the struggle for democracy in Myanmar.