Human Rights Council

Special Session on Myanmar

12 February 2021

Australian Statement

Australia has serious concerns about the military coup in Myanmar and for its democratic transition. 

Elected government leaders, political leaders, officials, civil society figures and others have been arbitrarily detained. An Australian citizen, a respected economist, has been detained. We call urgently for his immediate release so he can return home to his family, and for the release of all those who have been detained.

We strongly urge the military to engage in dialogue to support a return to civilian rule, and the reconvening of the National Assembly the Myanmar people so clearly want. We welcome the ASEAN Chairman’s Statement of 1 February recalling the principles enshrined in the ASEAN Charter.

We call on the authorities to ensure the protection of civilians and uphold human rights including the right to peaceful assembly, to exercise utmost restraint and to refrain from any use of violence.

Australia is deeply concerned about the potential impact of these events on humanitarian crises across the country which disproportionately affect the most vulnerable.  We urge unhindered humanitarian access.

Australia’s commitment to the people of Myanmar is longstanding and steadfast, and we restate that commitment here today.

190 Words