Interactive Dialogue with Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar
Statement as Prepared for Delivery by Ambassador Michèle Taylor
Delegation of the United States of America
Human Rights Council – 49th Session
March 21, 2022
Thank you, Madam Vice President.
Mr. Andrews, the United States expresses its gratitude to Mr. Andrews for his focus on the escalation of violence and human rights abuses in Myanmar.
Just about an hour ago, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken announced his determination that members of the military committed genocide and crimes against humanity against Rohingya in Myanmar.
We stand with the people of Myanmar, who respond with unwavering courage in the face of such brutality by the military, to call for the restoration of Myanmar’s democratic transition and for the pursuit of accountability for perpetrators of horrific atrocities.
We call on the military to cease violence, release all those unjustly detained, allow unhindered humanitarian access, and restore Myanmar’s path to inclusive democracy.
We echo your conviction that weapons transfers to the military must stop, and that Member States must take robust, collective action to prevent further bloodshed. We implore all nations to immediately suspend the sale of arms to the military, as well as all other goods that aid the military in perpetrating human rights violations and abuses against the people of Myanmar.
Question: What further actions will curtail the military’s illegitimate use of violence?
I thank you.