Myanmar National Human Rights Commission Statement (6/ 2025)

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission Statement (6/ 2025)

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission/ Yangon / June 20, 2025

   At the commencement of the 2025–2026 academic year, we are deeply saddened to learn of a series of unexpected and disturbing acts of violence. These incidents include the killing of a school principal and her husband from the Basic Education High School (Branch) in Kone Phaya (Nyaung Pin Kan) Village, Nyaung-U Township, Mandalay Region; the abduction of a high school teacher and female education college students by terrorists at the jetty in Pwint Tauk Village, Sidoktaya Township, Magway Region; the abduction and killing of a basic education post primary school principal in Kuni Village, Natmauk Township; and the killing of a middle school teacher and her husband in Wetchoat Village. These acts of violence seriously undermine fundamental human rights, including the right to life, personal security, the right to education, and the right to live in peace and stability.

   The acts of violence, including killings, abductions, threats, harassment and destruction in various forms, targeted toward school teachers, who bear key responsibilities for ensuring access to education, as well as students and educational institutions, directly violate the right to life and security of person as outlined in Article 3 and the right to education as outlined in Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). According to the 2014 National Education Law, education is recognized as an inheret right of every citizen. Therefore, it is essential to collectively protect and safeguard of all individuals involved in the education sector, including teachers and students, so that they may be free from harm.

   Furthermore, the destruction of public infrastructure - such as roads, bridges, communication towers, residential buildings, and hospitals - severely affects the socio-economic lives of the people across the country. These violent acts result in significant losses for both the nation and its people and constitute grave threats to peace and security. As universally recognized by the United Nations and the international community, all forms of terrorism are considered criminal acts and violations of justice. In line with this, the Government of Myanmar enacted the 2014 Counter-Terrorism Law to actively prevent, combat, and suppress such acts of violence within the country.

   To ensure that all learners across the country can enjoy their right to education in a peaceful environment, the promotion of domestic peace and the rule of law is essential. The development of a stable, peaceful, and accountable society is vital—not only to support the needs of victims affected by acts of violence through rehabilitation and recovery—but also for fostering mutual understanding and dialogue across ethnic, religious, and political differences. From a human rights perspective, we urge all relevant stakeholders, organizations, and the general public to collectively endeavor toward eliminating acts of violence through the rule of law, reconciliation, and inclusive engagement.

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission