The Myanmar crisis

Foreign Affairs Committee Closed Inquiry
Opened: 29 Apr 2021 Closed: 23 Sep 2021 Parliament page
This brief inquiry will examine the Government’s response to the ongoing military and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. The aim of this inquiry is to provide time-sensitive recommendations that will strengthen the UK Government’s efforts to mediate and limit further violence in Myanmar. Read the call for evidence for more details … Read more
27 Recommendations
4 Conclusions
1 Report
1 Oral session
1 Event
Activity timeline 3 events
23 Sep
2021
Report published
16 Jul
2021
Report published
25 May
2021
Oral evidence
Oral evidence sessions 1 session
25 May 2021
View on parliament.uk
Foreign Affairs Committee
Dr Sasa · National Unity Government of Myanmar John Sifton · Human Rights Watch Mark Farmaner · Burma Campaign UK Naw K’nyaw Paw · Karen Peace Support Network Thinzar Shunlei Yi · Action Committee for Democracy Development Tom Andrews · UN Human Rights Council
Title HC No. Published Items Response
Fourth Report - The UK Government's Response to the Myanmar Cris… HC 203 16 Jul 2021 31 Responded
Recommendations & Conclusions
31 results
1 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
If the UK is to fulfil its unique potential to mediate, it has to demonstrate...
If the UK is to fulfil its unique potential to mediate, it has to demonstrate a willingness to take action beyond statements. A coherent and concerted response is needed by the United Nations if the junta is to feel any … Read more
Government Response
The government states it has already gone beyond statements by imposing targeted sanctions, building coalitions to block arms supply, and actively working with regional partners to increase pressure on the junta.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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2 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
The UK Government cannot be said to support democracy in Myanmar if it does not...
The UK Government cannot be said to support democracy in Myanmar if it does not recognise the outcome of democratic elections in Myanmar. The National Unity Government comprises the legitimate representatives of the people of Myanmar, whose election has been … Read more
Government Response
The government rejected treating the NUG as a "government-in-waiting" due to its policy of recognising states, not governments. However, it confirmed active engagement with NUG and CRPH representatives, amplifying their voices internationally and urging partners to engage.
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3 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the UK Government supports the democratically elected National Unity Government of Myanmar...
We recommend that the UK Government supports the democratically elected National Unity Government of Myanmar by working with its representatives to identify and push for peaceful outcomes and draw attention to the junta’s illegal actions.
Government Response
The government states it adheres to its policy of recognising states, not governments, but actively supports the NUG by amplifying their voice internationally, urging partners to engage, and regularly engaging with their senior figures, including ministerial meetings.
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4 Recommendation Acknowledged
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
This support should be contingent on the NUG’s clear and continued commitment to the rights...
This support should be contingent on the NUG’s clear and continued commitment to the rights of different ethnic groups and minorities, and to delivering justice for past crimes. The UK should work to encourage other countries to do the same.
Government Response
The UK government states it wants to see an inclusive future for Myanmar and has used diplomatic meetings to encourage the NUG to be inclusive and representative of all ethnic groups, welcoming their recent policy paper on the Rohingya.
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5 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
It is essential that the UK Government’s actions do not appear to legitimise the authority...
It is essential that the UK Government’s actions do not appear to legitimise the authority of the junta in any way. Any actions that do will be seized upon by the junta and used as propaganda. Engagement should be strictly … Read more
Government Response
The government confirms it engages with the regime bilaterally only where strictly necessary to achieve political, humanitarian, and development objectives, aligning with the recommendation to avoid legitimising the junta.
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6 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
Freezing the Tatmadaw’s supply of arms should be the first priority of all those who...
Freezing the Tatmadaw’s supply of arms should be the first priority of all those who wish to see violence in Myanmar come to an end.
Government Response
The government states it is a longstanding supporter of an arms embargo, has transitioned EU embargoes into domestic law, and is actively working with G7 and UN partners to prevent the flow of arms to Myanmar.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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7 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the UK draft a United Nations Security Council resolution calling explicitly for...
We recommend that the UK draft a United Nations Security Council resolution calling explicitly for an arms embargo on Myanmar in order to gauge the current level of support and the type of diplomatic engagement that is required to establish … Read more
Government Response
The government states it is a longstanding supporter of an arms embargo and has implemented one domestically and through G7/UN General Assembly efforts, but currently finds a lack of support for a binding UN Security Council resolution, thus not proceeding with drafting one at this time.
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8 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
In the absence of a binding UN resolution on an arms embargo, we recommend that...
In the absence of a binding UN resolution on an arms embargo, we recommend that the UK works bilaterally and with groups such as the G7, the Quad, and the Five Power Defence Arrangements to build broader coalitions that will … Read more
Government Response
The government accepted the recommendation, detailing its longstanding support for an arms embargo, its role in securing EU and domestic sanctions, and active work with G7 and UN partners to build broader coalitions for preventing arms flow, including a UN General Assembly Resolution.
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9 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
If ASEAN’s mediation efforts are to have any chance of succeeding, they must be much...
If ASEAN’s mediation efforts are to have any chance of succeeding, they must be much more assertive, with a focus on holding the leaders of the junta to account. The UK has a responsibility to amplify the importance of human … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes ASEAN's Five Point Consensus and Special Envoy appointment, stating it has convened the UN Security Council, will continue to work closely with ASEAN to stress urgency and advocate for access, and will use its new Dialogue Partner status to support resolution efforts.
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10 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
Using its new status as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, the UK should work with ASEAN...
Using its new status as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, the UK should work with ASEAN to avoid any member states legitimising the junta’s authority, and should make the release of political prisoners and the cessation of all violence a fundamental … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the ASEAN Five Point Consensus and Special Envoy appointment, stating it will use its new ASEAN Dialogue Partner status to work closely with ASEAN and the Special Envoy to stress the urgency of the situation and advocate for access to all stakeholders.
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11 Conclusion Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
If the crisis continues to worsen, and in the absence of meaningful action through other...
If the crisis continues to worsen, and in the absence of meaningful action through other United Nations mechanisms, the Uniting for Peace option may be another viable avenue for action, as the General Assembly has already shown consensus on an … Read more
Government Response
The government notes the suggestion to use the 'Uniting for Peace' procedure but states that the UN General Assembly is already addressing the Myanmar crisis, and invoking UfP would not change the existing prerogatives.
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12 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the Government explore the feasibility of moving for a Uniting for Peace...
We recommend that the Government explore the feasibility of moving for a Uniting for Peace resolution if there is a failure to reach consensus in the Security Council within the next three months.
Government Response
The government rejects exploring a Uniting for Peace resolution, explaining that the UN General Assembly is already actively addressing the Myanmar crisis and invoking UfP would not change its existing prerogatives or powers.
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13 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
To draw further attention to the challenges faced by different groups, the Government should consider...
To draw further attention to the challenges faced by different groups, the Government should consider raising the issue of Myanmar at the UN treaty bodies. This may include, but not be limited to, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination … Read more
Government Response
The government rejected the recommendation to raise issues at specific UN treaty bodies (CEDAW, CRC, CAT), stating it's not possible due to a lack of inter-state mechanisms, Myanmar's exclusion of certain mechanisms, or non-ratification of conventions. However, it committed to continue using its UN leadership role and the UNSC Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict, and to publicly condemn human rights violations.
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14 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We welcome the Government’s willingness to sanction individuals and Tatmadaw- linked companies in critical sectors.
We welcome the Government’s willingness to sanction individuals and Tatmadaw- linked companies in critical sectors. This should be taken further by freezing the military’s revenue sources on all possible fronts. The UK has the economic and technical capabilities to help … Read more
Government Response
The government agrees to pursue targeted sanctions on businesses and organisations the junta depends on, highlighting existing sanctions and ongoing work with international partners, but not committing to freezing revenue on "all possible fronts".
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15 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
The Government should implement sanctions on Myanmar businesses and organisations in key industries on which...
The Government should implement sanctions on Myanmar businesses and organisations in key industries on which the junta is dependent at a much faster pace, while encouraging countries which are not currently introducing sanctions to do so.
Government Response
The government accepted the recommendation in part, agreeing to pursue targeted sanctions on junta-dependent businesses and commit to working with partners on further sanctions, while also encouraging other countries to adopt sanctions. It highlighted its existing quick action and targeted approach, rather than explicitly committing to a *faster pace* than current efforts.
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16 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We heard that banks operating in countries including Singapore and Thailand can be compelled by...
We heard that banks operating in countries including Singapore and Thailand can be compelled by UK regulators to enforce UK sanctions, as they conduct transactions in British pounds. This would cut off a key intermediary for the junta’s revenues, shutting … Read more
Government Response
The government explains that its sanctions regimes already apply extra-territorially to UK persons and entities through a 'UK Nexus', which prohibits dealing with sanctioned individuals' funds or economic resources, a longstanding approach to the extent of its sanctions.
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17 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the UK seeks to ensure that relevant third country financial institutions and...
We recommend that the UK seeks to ensure that relevant third country financial institutions and regulators support sanctions placed on Tatmadaw-linked businesses and individuals. (Paragraph 29) The UK Government’s Response to the Myanmar Crisis 21 Humanitarian support Read more
Government Response
The government rejected the recommendation to ensure support for sanctions from third-country financial institutions, stating it has no power to enforce sanctions extra-territorially without a UK nexus. However, it noted ongoing engagement with partners to encourage responsible investment and divestment from military-linked businesses.
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18 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
The UK should use the UN system to build consensus on the need for humanitarian...
The UK should use the UN system to build consensus on the need for humanitarian assistance within Myanmar, emphasising fundamental requirements such as healthcare and basic provisions.
Government Response
The government accepted the recommendation, detailing its twin-track approach to humanitarian access and its use of the UN system, including repeatedly raising concerns at the UNSC and UNGA. It also committed over £15.3m in humanitarian support, including £11m for basic healthcare.
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19 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
This should be done using a mechanism that will compel or encourage other countries to...
This should be done using a mechanism that will compel or encourage other countries to act, such as a resolution or statement at the Security Council or the General Assembly. Doing so will reaffirm certain countries’ commitment to provide humanitarian … Read more
Government Response
The government accepted the recommendation, committing to continue using its leadership role at the UN and Security Council to highlight the humanitarian crisis, citing specific past actions like convening meetings and securing a Presidential Statement, and promising to explore further statements.
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20 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
The Government should use its diplomatic influence to encourage border countries such as Thailand and...
The Government should use its diplomatic influence to encourage border countries such as Thailand and India to accept more refugees from Myanmar, and to meet their commitments of non-refoulement and support them as they do so, through channels including human … Read more
Government Response
The government states it has raised the importance of non-refoulement with partners and provides life-saving humanitarian assistance to displaced people in Myanmar and on the Thai border, including through The Border Consortium, while acknowledging the sensitivity of discussing actual cross-border work in detail.
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21 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the Government explore innovative ways of providing financial support to of civil...
We recommend that the Government explore innovative ways of providing financial support to of civil society organisations.
Government Response
The government states its humanitarian programme is already highly localised, providing flexible funding and capacity training to diverse civil society partners, and has led international efforts to develop new flexible support modalities.
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22 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
Aid spending should be funnelled to civil society and grassroots organisations who are doing invaluable...
Aid spending should be funnelled to civil society and grassroots organisations who are doing invaluable on-the-ground work to support those suffering under the junta. Organisations providing tailored support to different ethnic groups should also be specifically targeted for assistance. (Paragraph … Read more
Government Response
The government explains its humanitarian programme is already highly localised, providing flexible funding, specialised financial support, and capacity training to civil society and grassroots organisations, including those reaching isolated communities.
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23 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
At the heart of this coup is the belief in impunity.
At the heart of this coup is the belief in impunity. The generals leading the junta believe they can act without consequence. It is vital that the international community demonstrates that this is not the case. Not only is it … Read more
Government Response
The UK government agrees on the need for justice and accountability, committing £500,000 to the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar and establishing the 'Myanmar Witness' programme to collect and preserve evidence of international law violations.
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24 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that, should other accountability efforts fail, the Government publicly state its support for...
We recommend that, should other accountability efforts fail, the Government publicly state its support for referring those responsible for the situation in Myanmar to the International Criminal Court.
Government Response
The government rejects the recommendation to publicly state support for ICC referral, citing insufficient UN Security Council support and the risk that an unsuccessful referral would embolden the Tatmadaw.
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25 Recommendation Deferred
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the UK Government announce its intention to intervene in the Application of...
We recommend that the UK Government announce its intention to intervene in the Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (The Gambia v. Myanmar) at the International Court of Justice.
Government Response
The UK government strongly supports the ICJ process and will monitor developments closely, considering whether a UK intervention would add value once the legal arguments are made available.
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26 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
Assistance should be provided to local media organisations which continue to provide information and hold...
Assistance should be provided to local media organisations which continue to provide information and hold the junta to account at serious personal risk. Ethnic media agencies in particular, which broadcast and provide information in different languages throughout Myanmar, require particular … Read more
Government Response
The FCDO is providing funding to initiatives that help journalists and media organisations in Myanmar protect their identity and safety, including through the Joint Peace Fund, but cannot disclose further details for security reasons.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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27 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the Government explore ways to provide core funding and resourcing support to...
We recommend that the Government explore ways to provide core funding and resourcing support to independent ethnic language media organisations.
Government Response
The UK government recognises the work of ethnic media organisations and supports smaller partners through its PROTECT programme, providing emergency funds in response to the coup and intending to support female journalists.
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28 Recommendation Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
The Government should target funding and resources such as protected communications and data storage equipment...
The Government should target funding and resources such as protected communications and data storage equipment to civil society organisations on the ground in Myanmar, who are collecting evidence of human rights abuses committed by the Tatmadaw, for future due process. … Read more
Government Response
The UK government announced a £500,000 funding boost for the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar and has established the Myanmar Witness programme to independently collect, preserve, verify, and investigate human rights abuses.
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29 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
While we commend the Government’s decision to provide support to the recently deposed Myanmar ambassador,...
While we commend the Government’s decision to provide support to the recently deposed Myanmar ambassador, Kyaw Zwar Minn, we recognise that there are other Myanmar nationals in the UK requiring assistance. These people do not have access to the proper … Read more
Government Response
The government stated that existing immigration routes and provisions, including the Skilled Worker, Graduate, Student, Exceptional Assurance, and Leave Outside the Immigration Rules, are already available to Myanmar nationals in the UK to address their visa needs.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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30 Recommendation Rejected
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
We recommend that the Government introduces ‘protected status’ lasting the duration of the violence for...
We recommend that the Government introduces ‘protected status’ lasting the duration of the violence for Myanmar nationals who are currently based in the UK but are unable to renew their visas due to the military’s occupation of the embassy in … Read more
Government Response
The government outlines existing immigration routes and temporary provisions like Exceptional Assurance for Myanmar nationals in the UK, stating individuals can access various visa options or claim asylum, but does not commit to introducing a specific 'protected status'.
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31 Conclusion Accepted
Fourth Report - The UK Government'…
It is the duty of the international community to support the Myanmar people in their...
It is the duty of the international community to support the Myanmar people in their efforts to stop the violence and bring about the democracy for which the country has fought so long. The Government has made positive steps on … Read more
Government Response
The government accepted the committee's conclusion, agreeing on the need for concerted international effort and outlining its commitment to continue building on existing steps, including extending targeted sanctions, working to stem arms flow, providing humanitarian assistance, maintaining UN leadership, providing a platform for pro-democracy voices, and working with ASEAN.
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Government Response AI assessment · 31 of 27 classified
Accepted 18
Accepted in Part 3
Acknowledged 1
Deferred 1
Rejected 8
Total 27 recs + 4 conclusions