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| Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide Adama Dieng. Photo: Rick Bajornas |
March 25, 2013
UN News Centre
The United Nations Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide today
voiced deep concern at reports of increased violence between Muslim and
Buddhist communities in Myanmar, and called on leaders to promote
respect for diversity and peaceful coexistence.
Last week President Thein Sein reportedly declared a state of emergency
and imposed martial law in four central townships after several days of
unrest between Buddhists and Muslims, including in Meiktila where at
least 30 people were killed.
“The recent episode of violence in Meiktila in central Myanmar raises
concerns that sectarian violence is spreading to other parts of the
country,” stated Special Adviser Adama Dieng. “In the context of last
year’s violence between Buddhists and Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine state,
there is a considerable risk of further violence if measures are not
put in place to prevent this escalation.”
Mr. Dieng said these measures must address not only the immediate
consequences of the current violence but also the root causes of the
problem. “Failing to do so can have serious future consequences which
the international community has solemnly promised to prevent,” he
stated.
“The Government of Myanmar must clearly demonstrate that it is serious
about holding accountable those responsible for the past and present
violence, regardless of their religious or ethnic affiliations,” he
urged. “The Government must also take measures to protect populations
still at risk.”
Noting that the State has the primary responsibility to protect its
population, the Special Adviser called on the Government of Myanmar to
address this situation as a matter of urgency, develop a comprehensive
national strategy that upholds international human rights standards and
promotes reconciliation and tolerance among Buddhist and Muslim
communities in the country.
“I call upon all religious leaders, local leaders and the communities
themselves, to promote a culture of respect for diversity and peaceful
coexistence that is fundamental in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious
society such as the one in Myanmar,” stated Mr. Dieng
“As a country that has positively surprised the international community
with its recent transformation towards democracy, Myanmar needs to
demonstrate that the rule of law will prevail and that all those living
within its borders are and will be protected from violence and
discrimination, particularly on the basis of religion or ethnicity.”
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