Australia urges end to violence and calls for dialogue ahead of Myanmar elections

Mizzima

On 10 December, the Australian Government released a statement expressing grave concern over Myanmar’s political and humanitarian crisis ahead of the junta’s planned elections. 

The statement is as follows.

The Australian Government has grave concerns about the ongoing political and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. Australia condemns widespread human rights abuses and violations by the Myanmar military regime, and remains deeply concerned by its ongoing attacks against civilians including airstrikes. We also note with concern credible reports of violence and abuses committed by other armed actors.

Australia has consistently maintained that a genuine path to peace requires an end to violence, the release of all those unjustly detained and inclusive dialogue among all Myanmar stakeholders.

We are seriously concerned that elections held without these conditions will lead to greater instability and prevent a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis, with grave consequences for the people of Myanmar. The current situation in Myanmar falls short of what is needed for free, fair and inclusive elections.