Human Rights Council: LAW oral statement on the situation in Myanmar

HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL 60th REGULAR SESSION  

Enhanced Interactive dialogue on report of High Commissioner and Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar

Statement by Legal Action Worldwide (LAW)

08 September 2025 

Watch the video of the statement here.

Mr. High Commissioner, 

Our team on the ground continues to document ongoing violation of human rights in Rakhine State. Eyewitnesses and survivors report severe abuses by the Arakan Army, including restrictions on movement and livelihoods, forced labour, arbitrary arrests, and acute hunger.  

Despite the extensive evidence of these ongoing atrocities, the US recently lifted sanctions on allies of Myanmar’s generals, while the military finds new ways to evade remaining sanctions ahead of sham elections planned in December. Meanwhile in Bangladesh, school closures in the camps after aid cuts, have further stripped Rohingya children of hope for their future. 

International accountability mechanisms, notably the ICJ hearings on the merits, are expected to advance next year. But justice for the people of Myanmar requires coordinated action now—through sanctions, use of universal jurisdiction to initiate investigations and prosecutions, and unwavering political pressure. 

The hundreds of Rohingya we represent are demanding reparation, including recognition, citizenship, and access to original land destroyed or confiscated by the military and the Arakan Army. This Council’s recent resolution highlighting the need for reparations is a step in the right direction. But Rohingya urge member states to address restoration of rights including access to land in the Rohingya future roadmap. 

Mr. High Commissioner, how will this Council ensure member states prevent further harm, as well as survivors’ right to reparations? 

Thank you.