Chairperson, I deliver this statement on behalf of Australia, Canada, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and my own country Liechtenstein.

We thank the EU and the OIC for their efforts in advancing this important resolution, which remains a key priority for our delegations. At the same time, we regret that some key dimensions, including on humanitarian access, the prevention of arms transfers, and accountability for crimes committed by the military junta and other actors, fall short of our expectations and of the needs of the people of Myanmar.

Chairperson,

The rise in serious human rights violations and abuses in Myanmar is deeply concerning. We strongly condemn the military regime’s indiscriminate attacks, airstrikes, shelling, arson, and killings of civilians. States should take measures to halt the supply of arms, revenue, and dual-use materials, as well as jet fuel, surveillance goods and technologies and less-lethal weapons to the military regime to prevent further violence and atrocities against the people of Myanmar.

We urge all parties to cease hostilities, respect international law, ensure the protection of civilians, and allow rapid, full, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access. We reiterate our strong support for the full implementation of UNSC Resolution 2669 and our calls for the Security Council to refer the situation to the International Criminal Court. We encourage ongoing efforts to supplement Resolution 2669 with a follow-up resolution and reiterate that the General Assembly is empowered to act when the Security Council is blocked.

We acknowledge and thank countries who are hosting those displaced from Myanmar and we support the proposed UN high level conference to advance collective efforts towards durable solutions to the Rohingya crisis, and the wider conflict in Myanmar.

We are concerned that the military regime may be planning to hold so-called elections later next year. Such an attempt aims to legitimize the legacy of February 2021, when the regime seized power in defiance of the election result and in violation of the constitution. States must only recognize genuine elections by universal and equal suffrage and not those called by the military junta.

We reiterate the importance of first creating the conditions that will allow for a constructive and inclusive dialogue and reconciliation process, in accordance with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar, including those who have fled to safety outside its borders. Australia, Canada, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein stand with the people of Myanmar and their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Myanmar.