A report published on June 13 by the Peace Research Institute of Oslo revealed that over 6,000 civilians have lost their lives in Myanmar during the first 20 months following the military coup in February 2021. This alarming statistic, higher than previously reported, sheds light on the dire human toll inflicted by the ongoing conflict in the country.
The report, authored by Stein Tonnesson and a fellow researcher, highlights the main culprits responsible for the staggering loss of life. While the military junta is identified as the primary perpetrator, it is noted that anti-junta forces also share a significant portion of the blame.
The military coup that occurred in Myanmar in February 2021 brought about a wave of protests and resistance from the civilian population. Citizens took to the streets, demanding the restoration of democracy and the release of political prisoners. In response, the military cracked down on dissent, employing brutal tactics that have resulted in widespread human rights abuses.
The Peace Research Institute’s report serves as a stark reminder of the scale of violence inflicted upon civilians since the coup. The numbers indicate a shocking disregard for human life and an escalation of the conflict’s brutality. The report also challenges previous estimates, underscoring the urgent need for accurate data to understand the full extent of the crisis.
Stein Tonnesson, one of the co-authors, emphasizes the responsibility of the junta for the bulk of the civilian casualties. The military regime has unleashed a campaign of violence, including arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and the use of excessive force against unarmed protesters. The report explicitly places the blame on the junta for its direct involvement in the loss of innocent lives.
However, the report does not absolve anti-junta forces from their share of responsibility. While the primary focus remains on the junta’s actions, it acknowledges that some anti-junta groups have also resorted to violence. The inclusion of this observation aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the conflict and highlights the complexities and challenges of the situation.
The findings of the report call for immediate attention from the international community. The magnitude of the human suffering demands swift action to protect civilians and hold the responsible parties accountable. The report also underscores the need for a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the crisis, urging dialogue and reconciliation to avoid further bloodshed.
Myanmar has been facing condemnation from the international community since the coup, with calls for targeted sanctions and diplomatic pressure to compel the junta to restore democracy. The report amplifies these calls by providing concrete evidence of the dire human consequences of the military’s actions.
As the global community grapples with the implications of this report, it is crucial to reaffirm the importance of safeguarding human rights and promoting democracy. The people of Myanmar have shown immense bravery and resilience in their fight for freedom and deserve the unwavering support of the international community. By acknowledging the gravity of the situation and taking concerted action, the hope for a peaceful and democratic Myanmar can be kept alive.