Nicholas Koumjian of the IIMM addressed the EU on worsening human rights abuses in Myanmar since the military coup in 2021. The IIMM collects evidence of serious crimes, including those against the Rohingya. The situation in Rakhine State deteriorates with intense fighting, and the need for humanitarian aid remains critical. Investigations into alleged war crimes continue amidst many challenges, while international efforts seek accountability and justice.
On February 17, 2025, Nicholas Koumjian, Head of the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM), addressed the European Parliament regarding ongoing human rights violations in Myanmar. The European Union and its Member States continue to support the IIMM’s investigation efforts, which were established by the United Nations in 2018 to collect evidence of serious international crimes occurring in Myanmar since 2011. The IIMM aims to facilitate justice by preparing case files for prosecution at national and international levels, including appeals to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The situation in Myanmar has deteriorated significantly since the military coup in February 2021, with a sharp increase in violence and human rights abuses. Following the military takeover, peaceful protests were violently suppressed, and many opponents were arrested, tortured, or killed. According to Koumjian, resistance to military rule is intensifying, leading to escalating conflict and civilian casualties, particularly through the military’s increased use of airstrikes.
The crisis in Rakhine State continues to be a focal point of concern, particularly for the Rohingya community. The Arakan Army has claimed control of most areas within the state, leading to further suffering for the Rohingya, who are often caught amid the ongoing violence. Questions remain regarding the possibility of humanitarian aid entering the region and whether the Arakan Army can be engaged as a responsible governing entity.
The IIMM is investigating alleged war crimes committed by all parties in Myanmar, including the junta and the Arakan Army. Despite requests for information, the junta has largely ignored communications from the IIMM, while the Arakan Army has indicated a willingness to cooperate. In November, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, which has reportedly increased pressure on the military regime.
Koumjian’s team faces substantial challenges in their investigative work due to the ongoing violence and their lack of access to Myanmar. They rely on the courage of individuals providing information and utilizing modern communication technologies to gather evidence. Their primary objective is to preserve evidence for potential future judicial proceedings, even as they confront an overwhelming volume of reported human rights violations.
There are ongoing investigations by the ICC and cases in Argentina addressing the Rohingya situation, alongside the International Court of Justice (ICJ) proceedings initiated by The Gambia against Myanmar for alleged genocide. Although current court processes do not formally address post-coup violence, the IIMM aims to ensure that evidence is collected while signaling to perpetrators that their actions are being monitored.
International sanctions against Myanmar continue, with the IIMM supporting efforts by various nations and organizations to hold the military accountable for its crimes. The work being done to document and analyze these situations serves as a critical mechanism for future justice for the victims of violence and oppression in Myanmar.
The evolving crisis in Myanmar post-coup reveals increased violence and deterioration of human rights. The IIMM, supported by the EU, seeks to collect and preserve evidence of serious crimes to facilitate justice and accountability. Significant investigations are underway, though challenges persist due to lack of access and ongoing violence. International attention and sanctions play a crucial role in pressuring the military regime and advocating for victims’ rights.
Original Source: unric.org
