Prime Minister Tony Blair’s statement on tourism to Burma

Message from Prime Minister Tony Blair

The UK has been at the forefront of efforts over many years to draw attention to the extent of abuse in Burma, and to bring pressure to bear on the military regime to reform. We are actively working with our European and international partners, as well as through the United Nations and the International Labour Organisation, to press the regime to end the appalling human rights violations and to engage in a genuine process of national reconciliation. This must involve all relevant parties and groups in Burma.

Human rights violations in Burma have been highlighted in successive UN Resolutions which have drawn attention to torture, extra-judicial killings and rape by members of the armed forces, forced labour including the use of child soldiers and forced relocation of villagers. Together with our partners in Europe, the British government imposes a series of measures against those responsible for these crimes. For as long as they continue, I would urge anyone who may be thinking of visiting Burma on holiday to consider carefully whether by their actions they are helping to support the regime and prolong such dreadful abuses.

Related news

• Burmese Army Shoots Pregnant Teacher In Kachin State
• EU – More Caution Needed on Burma Sanctions
• Burma Campaign UK Welcomes Political Prisoner Release
• Burma Campaign UK Welcomes Hague’s Pragmatic Message on Burma
• Burma Campaign UK Tribute and Condolences on the Death of Vaclav Havel
• Hague Burma Visit – Prioritise Ending Burmese Army’s Use of Rape and Sexual Violence
• Eddie Izzard performs sell-out fundraising event in aid of Burma Campaign UK
• Final Three Resistance Fighters Released In India
• ASEAN must monitor reform and be willing to withhold 2014 chair if improvements aren’t met
• Ban Ki-moon Urged to Press for Release of all Political Prisoners in Burma