Special Adviser on the
Prevention of Genocide Adama Dieng. UN Photo/Rick Bajornas
UN News Centre
March 26, 2013
25 March 2013 – 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.”