The UN special rapporteur on Myanmar condemned U.S. aid cuts as a betrayal, warning of severe suffering for the population. He called for unity among the UN Human Rights Council to address this politically motivated decision. Myanmar is grappling with conflict and humanitarian crises following the 2021 military coup, with over 3.5 million displaced.
The UN’s special rapporteur on Myanmar, Tom Andrews, criticized recent cuts to U.S. foreign aid as a “shameful act of betrayal” that will lead to significant suffering and loss of life in the country. He described these cuts as politically motivated and poorly executed, emphasizing that the repercussions are already being felt among the Myanmar population. Andrews called on the UN Human Rights Council to unite and respond as a matter of moral obligation. He asserted that while concerns regarding aid program efficacy are valid, the current aid cuts are based on misleading claims about corruption and waste, which jeopardize lives and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis.
Since a military coup on February 1, 2021, which deposed the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar has spiraled into conflict and crisis. The junta has faced fierce resistance from various ethnic groups, displacing over 3.5 million individuals. Humanitarian conditions have worsened drastically as violence continues to escalate, highlighting the urgent need for international support and correction of mischaracterizations regarding aid effectiveness. The UN’s call to action stresses the imperative of recognizing both the severity of the situation and responsibility towards the affected populations.
The UN expert’s denunciation of U.S. foreign aid cuts underlines the severe implications for Myanmar, emphasizing that these drastic measures, driven by political motivations, could result in a humanitarian disaster. As conflict persists, it is crucial for the international community, particularly the UN, to advocate for an informed and compassionate approach to aid. The situation in Myanmar necessitates urgent and concerted actions to mitigate suffering and restore support to the vulnerable affected by ongoing turmoil.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
