UN calls for greater international pressure on Myanmar’s junta

Geneva (dpa), 11 May, 2021-Thousands of people in Myanmar turned out to protest against the military coup on Tuesday, marking the 100th day of demonstrations despite the violent crackdown by security forces.

At the demonstrations, protesters chanted and called for justice, freedom and democracy in Myanmar. Many held banners bearing works by poet Khet Thi, who was arrested and killed by the military a few days ago.

“They shoot us in the head, but they don’t know the revolution is in our hearts,” Khet Thi had written. Protesters have been marching across Myanmar in defiance of military rule for more than three months, ever since the elected civilian leaders were arrested and the country was thrown into political turmoil.

People were being forced to consider seeking safety outside the country, the UN Human Rights Office said on Tuesday, adding that they should receive such protection and support from Myanmar’s neighbours.

“It is clear that there needs to be greater international involvement to prevent the human rights situation in Myanmar from deteriorating further,” the UN office said.