European Parliament Rejects Burma Election – Calls For End To Systematic Displacement

The European Parliament today passed a new resolution on Burma, stating that under present conditions Burma’s planned elections cannot be free and fair.

As thousands of Karen people flee a new military offensive in Karen State, Burma, the Parliament also demanded an end to systematic forced displacement, and for an end to impunity for crimes such as rape and sexual violence, torture, and enforced disappearances.

The Burma Campaign UK welcomed the resolution, which also supports tri-partite dialogue, calls on Thailand not to forcibly deport ethnic Karen refugees back to Burma, and calls on the European Commission to reconsider cutting aid to refugees on the Thailand Burma border.

“The European Parliament continues to support Burma’s democracy movement,” said Zoya Phan, International Coordinator at Burma Campaign UK. “As the Burmese Army launches a new offensive against civilians in Karen State, we welcome the call for an end to forced displacement, and ending impunity for crimes. It is also shocking that the European Commission would consider cutting funding for refugees while doing nothing about why the refugees are forced to flee their homes in the first place. We strongly welcome the European Parliament’s support, and call on Commission officials to stop ignoring these Resolutions, and instead act on them.”

The resolution is available at: European Parliament resolution on Burma [PDF file]

For more information contact Zoya Phan on 02073244710

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