Democracy News

Burma Establishes National Human Rights Commission, International Observers Remain Skeptical
October 4, 2011
By: Mark Hsen | Printer Friendly

In September, Burma's state media New Light of Myanmar announced the establishment of a national human rights commission to safeguard and promote the rights of citizens.  BBC News reports that the national panel would be comprised of 15 retired government officials and academics; however, details of the commission's scope and responsibilities have not been released.  While this may prove to be a step on the path towards true democracy, international observers are not convinced. 

United Nations Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Burma, Tomas Ojea Quintana visited Burma in August, the first time he was allowed to enter Burma in more than a year.  Quintana reiterated his call for the establishment of an independent commission to investigate suspected human rights violations and crimes against humanity.  As reported by BBC News, 16 countries including the United States and Britain have supported this proposal. 

The formation of this new commission follows Burma's recent transition from military regime to a civilian government, a step taken to improve the country's international reputation. While the government of President Thein Sein assumed power in March after elections in November 2010, the elections were widely considered unfair and a sham to further consolidate military rule.  The previous military regime also established a human rights commission in 2000; however opposition members stated it did little to protect them.  International observers were also skeptical of the commission.  While notable democracy activist and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi was recently released after the national election, more than 2,000 political prisoners remain in custody. 

Opposition leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi spent 15 of the past 21 years under house arrest after winning the 1990 national elections with the National League for Democracy, a result which was nullified by the military junta.  Daughter of the nation's independence leader General Aung San, Suu Kyi left Burma in 1960, when her mother Daw Khin Kyi was given an ambassadorial position in India.  After attending Oxford University and working abroad, she returned in 1988 during major political upheaval.  While tirelessly championing democracy in Burma, Suu Kyi has become an international symbol for peaceful resistance.  Due to new election laws, Suu Kyi boycotted the November 2010 election.  While she has been released, Suu Kyi has emphasized that democracy has still not been accomplished. 

For previous news on Burma, please see: 
Burma Releases Prisoners; US Renews Sanctions 

Sources:
BBC News - Burma sets up human rights commission

Voice of America – Burmese Government Established Human Rights Commission

Voice of America – Burma's Aung San Suu Kyi Still Waiting for Democracy

BBC News – Profile: Aung San Suu Kyi