The UN envoy for Myanmar, Julie Bishop, has highlighted a worsening crisis characterized by escalating conflict and rampant criminal networks. Since the military coup in February 2021, violence has surged, leading to massive displacement and humanitarian needs. Bishop emphasizes the need for cooperative dialogue among stakeholders, cessation of violence, and accountability to address the situation effectively.

The United Nations envoy for Myanmar, Julie Bishop, warned that the nation is facing an escalating crisis marked by rampant conflict and criminal networks that are increasingly uncontrollable. She highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, with 3 million people displaced and 18.6 million in need of urgent assistance. In her initial report to the U.N. General Assembly’s human rights committee, she urged Myanmar’s stakeholders to adopt a cooperative approach, moving beyond a zero-sum mentality that has perpetuated violence and instability.

Since the military coup in February 2021 that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar has descended into violence, with protests suppressed and numerous ethnic armed groups expanding their influence. As these groups gain more territory, the military struggles to maintain control, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian needs. Bishop emphasized that there can be no significant progress without ceasing hostilities, underscoring the urgent requirements for humanitarian aid and peaceful dialogue among all parties involved.

Engaging various stakeholders, including government representatives and opposition groups, Bishop has pursued dialogue with leaders from ASEAN and neighboring countries such as China and Thailand. Her upcoming visits to India and Bangladesh are aimed at galvanizing regional support and cooperation. She noted the importance of ASEAN’s five-point plan, initially agreed upon by Myanmar’s military leaders, which calls for an immediate end to violence and the establishment of a dialogue facilitated by ASEAN.

Bishop pointed out the growing civilian toll due to the conflict and the alarming situation of criminal activities, from human trafficking to organized crime, asserting that Myanmar currently faces the highest levels of transnational crime among U.N. member states. This deterioration of law and order has repercussions not only regionally but globally. She conveyed concern over the military’s intention to proceed with elections amidst ongoing conflict and human rights violations, urging that the crisis in Myanmar should not be forgotten.

In summary, Bishop stressed the necessity for reconciliation through cessation of violence and accountability, insisting on unhindered access for humanitarian efforts. The international community must acknowledge the broader implications of Myanmar’s crisis while working closely with the U.N. and ASEAN to promote a return to democratic governance. The urgency for a peaceful resolution remains paramount, with dire consequences looming for both Myanmar and its regional neighbors.

Myanmar has been in a state of turmoil since the military coup on February 1, 2021, which disrupted its democratic governance and led to widespread protests. The military’s violent response has intensified conflicts, particularly with ethnic armed groups, leading to a humanitarian crisis where millions are displaced and require assistance. The ongoing violence has also caused a surge in organized crime, further complicating the political landscape and human rights situation in the region.

In conclusion, the current crisis in Myanmar demands immediate attention from the international community to prevent further deterioration of the situation. The resolution requires collective action to halt violence, increase humanitarian aid access, and support a dialogue-driven path to restoring democratic governance. The implications of the crisis extend beyond Myanmar, affecting regional stability and necessitating global response efforts.

Original Source: apnews.com

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