Myanmar National Human Rights Commission Statement No. (4/ 2025)

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission Statement No. (4/ 2025)

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission/ Yangon / April 04, 2025

   On Friday, 28 March 2025, at 12:51:02 PM, a powerful earthquake and its subsequent aftershocks struck Myanmar, causing significant loss of lives and properties, as well as numerous injuries. The Myanmar National Human Rights Commission deeply sympathizes and shares in the grief of the people over the destruction of lives and homes, as well as the profound sorrow experienced by the entire nation.

  In the areas affected by the earthquake, residential buildings, houses, government offices, universities, schools, pagodas, religious structures, cultural heritage buildings, roads, bridges, wells, and ponds were damaged or destroyed. Since the earthquake occurred, the Government, the National Disaster Management Committee, local and international rescue teams, military personnel, police forces, firefighters, Red Cross members, volunteer organizations, and the public have been actively engaged in emergency response efforts. Generous donors and volunteers have also provided financial aids, medical supplies, and other essential resources, while international aid has provided crucial support to the victims. These efforts have strengthened the resilience of those affected and helped them rebuild their lives. The Myanmar National Human Rights Commission is also collaborating with relief organizations and conducting its part to support earthquake victims within its capacity.

   With empathy and understanding towards the people across the country who are suffering due to the impact of the earthquake, and intending to carry out rescue and recovery operations effectively and efficiently, as well as to restore stability and peace, Tatmadaw has declared a temporary ceasefire period from 2 to 22 April 2025. The ceasefire contributes to maintaining the rule of law, stability, and human rights protection in the impacted areas. The Myanmar National Human Rights Commission welcomes this announcement, recognizing its significance in supporting humanitarian assistance and ensuring peace and security during this critical period.

   The devastating earthquake has led to severe threats to people's lives and security, leaving many homeless and without access to essential needs such as food, clothing, medicine, healthcare, and clean water. Additionally, the disaster has caused both physical and psychological distress, creating significant human rights related challenges. In response to these challenges, the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission urges all relevant authorities, organizations, and the public, from the human rights perspectives, to ensure that human rights and humanitarian assistance is provided equitably, without discrimination, to all those affected including the vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

Myanmar National Human Rights Commission

Date: 4 April 2025