Myanmar at a ‘Crossroads’: The World Must Not Forsake Civilians There, Urges UN Expert

In his final report to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Tom Andrews, the outgoing Special Rapporteur on Myanmar, called on governments to renew their commitment to protecting civilians and supporting the country’s struggling population. He highlighted the challenging geopolitical climate affecting human rights progress in Myanmar and worldwide, noting that the UN and its founding principles are severely strained.

Mr. Andrews, an independent expert appointed by the Council, cautioned that diminishing international pressure and reduced humanitarian funding could have dire consequences for the population already facing widespread violence and deprivation. He acknowledged promising international actions to weaken the military junta but expressed concern over waning governmental resolve.

Myanmar has faced conflict since the military’s February 2021 coup, which ousted the civilian government, arresting leaders like President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup led to widespread protests and armed resistance controlling significant areas. Violence against civilians escalated, with airstrikes on civilian targets rising from nine in 2021 to 1,140 last year. Over 100,000 homes have been destroyed, and increased landmine use has left communities in fear.

The conflict has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis, with OCHA reporting that nearly one-third of Myanmar’s population requires aid and over 12 million face acute hunger. Displacement affects more than 3.6 million people across regions such as Sagaing, Magway, Chin, Bago, and Kayin due to continuing clashes and airstrikes. Civilian casualties are also up, with OHCHR reporting at least 982 civilian deaths from airstrikes in 2025, a 53% rise from the previous year, including 287 children. In Rakhine State alone, over 190 fatalities resulted from aerial attacks that also destroyed homes and vital infrastructure.

Despite worsening conditions, international actions to isolate the military have shown effectiveness, such as sanctions disrupting the junta’s arms acquisition and limiting its international legitimacy. Mr. Andrews emphasized the choice facing the international community: to scale up effective measures supporting Myanmar’s resilient people or to withdraw support at a critical time.