Third Committee - Promotion and protection of human rights: Briefing on Myanmar
Third Committee - Promotion and protection of human rights
Briefing on Myanmar
28 October 2025
Statement by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance
Excellencies,
International IDEA welcomes the latest report by the Special Rapporteur, Tom Andrews, and commends the unwavering efforts by both him and the Special Envoy on Myanmar to keep the crisis in Myanmar on the international agenda. The situation has reached a critical juncture: the military junta continues its campaign of violence, including airstrikes on civilians, systematic persecution of the Rohingya and other minorities, and the orchestration of sham elections designed to entrench military rule.
We echo the Special Rapporteur’s call for the international community to unequivocally reject the junta’s planned elections, which cannot be considered free or fair under conditions of repression, exclusion, and ongoing conflict. No support—technical, material, or political—should be extended to this illegitimate process. We call for Member States to increase sanctions on the junta’s sources of revenue, weapons, and legitimacy, and to refrain from any actions that might confer recognition on the regime.
The humanitarian crisis is deepening, with over 22 million people in need and critical funding gaps threatening lifesaving assistance. The destabilization of Myanmar has significant regional implications, including mass displacement and human trafficking. Immediate, robust support is crucial for both humanitarian relief and Myanmar’s democracy movement.
International IDEA stands with Myanmar’s legitimate democratic institutions, including the Committee Representing the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the National Unity Government, and all pro-democracy and ethnic organizations working towards a federal, democratic, inclusive, and rights-based future. We urge the international community to provide sustained support to their efforts, in line with General Assembly Resolution 78/219 and Human Rights Council Resolutions 55/20 and 58/20.
The time to act is now. Supporting Myanmar’s legitimate democratic institutions is not just an investment in one country—it is a stand for democratic values everywhere.
Thank you.
