Human Rights: UN Special Rapporteur Praised Government’s commitment

UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar Yanghee Lee stressed that the enjoyment of the rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly are essential ingredients for Myanmar’s democracy. She praised the Government’s commitment to furthering democratic transition, national reconciliation, sustainable development and peace though there needs to have more transparency in public consultation.

[Soundbite] UN Special Rapporteur Yanghee Lee: “I was pleased to note that many aspects of the various 100-day plans of union ministries were broadly in line with the human rights priority areas set out in my last report to the Human Rights Council. I encouraged closer cooperation with my mandate and the international community in their implementation. At the same time, I noted that many of these plans were not well-publicized and had, for the most part, been developed with little or no public consultation or input from relevant stakeholders.”

She also pointed out to reform the outdated laws which need to be review in line with the international human rights standards.

[Soundbite] UN Special Rapporteur Yanghee Lee: “The foundation for any functioning democracy is the rule of law. I therefore welcome the priority given to upholding the rule of law and to strengthening legal and judicial institutions. Central to this is the continuing review and reform of legislation, particularly outdated laws that have been deemed to be inconsistent with international human rights standards.”

She also called the international community to remain committed to providing necessary assistance and support to further the reforms in Myanmar.  The is the fourth official visit of UN Special Rapporteur to Myanmar, and during her 12-day visit, she has met several Government officials, human rights advocates and CSOs in Kachin, Rakhine and Shan States as well as in Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon Region. She is going to submit the report to 71st Session of UN General Assembly that will be held by the end of this year.