U.S. Statement at the Human Rights Council Special Session on the Human Rights Implications of the Crisis in Myanmar
Delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Mark Cassayre
Thank you Madam President,
The United States condemns the military’s February 1 coup against the democratically-elected government of Myanmar. We stand with the people of Myanmar in calling for the immediate restoration of the country’s democratic institutions.
We ask all Council members to join the United States and others to:
1. Urge the military to immediately release all those unjustly detained, including politicians, civil society representatives, journalists, foreign nationals, and human rights defenders.
2. Urge the military and police to restore power to the democratically-elected government, demonstrate respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and refrain from further violence against peaceful protesters.
3. Urge the military to lift all restrictions on access to information, including by maintaining telecommunications and internet access.
4. Join us in promoting accountability for those responsible for the coup, including through targeted sanctions.